March usually means that spring break is right around the corner. Read on for information on family friendly venues to get the kids out for a day or two.1. The Paint MinesA 25-minute drive from Falcon, the Paint Mines in Calhan offer 4 miles of hiking trails and incredible natural rock formations. The park gets its name from the incredible colors of the rocks that the Native Americans used to create paint. Head down Highway 24 to Calhan, turn south on Yoder Road/Calhan Highway, then turn east on Paint Mines Road and look for parking. It is free to enter and is open from dawn to dusk.2. Manitou SpringsLocated about 45 minutes from Falcon, Manitou Springs offers plenty for everyone. First, there is the penny arcade in downtown Manitou, and itís a win for kids of all ages, with all kinds of amusement rides for small kids, a variety of pinball games, Skeeball, a horse racing game and much more. Check out Patsyís famous taffy located at the arcade. There are plenty of great restaurants like Adams Mountain Cafe and the Border Burger Bar. Relax while the kids play on the merry-go-round and swings at the park.3. MuseumsIs there a burgeoning history buff in the family? There are plenty of museums to visit in Colorado Springs, for any interest.
- The US Olympic and Paralympic Museum – The Springs is known for the Olympic Training Center and the centerís newest museum was selected as the countryís Best New Attraction in 2020 by USA Today. The museum showcases the history of the United Statesí Olympic and Paralympic participation; and highlights the achievements of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic competitors. Admission is $19.95 per adult, $11.95 for children age 3-12, and free for kids under 3.
- The Wild West Ghost Town Museum – Located in Old Colorado City, the Ghost Town Museum was created to preserve a piece of Coloradoís Wild West Heritage. The museum includes interactive exhibits, including gold panning and butter churning. The cost is $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for kids age 6-16 and free for kids under 6.
- The National Museum of WWII Aviation – Opened in 2012, this museum documents the role aviation played in World War II. The museum is home to 20 fully restored WWII aircraft. The exhibits take the visitor on a journey through the history of WWII advances in aviation and the different roles the planes participated in during the war. Check the calendar on their website for events, some that include lessons on certain planes and a flight demonstration. Parking is free; the cost is $17 per adult, $12 for kids age 4-12, and they offer discounted rates to veterans and seniors.
- Western Museum of Mining and Industry – Open since 1970, this museum is dedicated to preserving the mining and industrial history of Colorado and the American West. There are many interactive exhibits, including a walk-through mine shaft, an 1895 Corliss steam engine and a pod (capsule) used to rescue 33 Chilean miners in 2010. Tickets are $12 for an adult, $8 for students and $6 for kids age 4-12.
- Homestead Ranch Park – Located in Peyton, Homestead Ranch Park offers good hiking and riding trails through the small wooded area around the park amid the tranquil eastern planes.It can get a little muddy after rain or snow so be sure to wear waterproof hiking boots. Also, there are picnic tables for an after-hike snack.
- Section 16/The Pineries Open SpaceBoth of these hiking trails are located in Black Forest and offer easy hikes for the family. Enjoy awesome views, and leashed dogs are welcome.
- Cheyenne Canon Park – Located near downtown Colorado Springs, Cheyenne Canon Park offers plenty of trails and camping opportunities. Most trails are moderate and some trails are for experienced hikers; the spectacular views of the hills and the city are well worth it.
