20 Best Summer Programs In Colorado Springs, CO (2022 Updated)

Where you send your kids to school is a decision you make with your heart. When both of your kids are born premature some 30 years ago and from the beginning are in a fight for their lives, you pray, you plead and you promise. You promise that if somehow they can live that you will give them the best. That is where the Colorado Springs School came in. It was the right decision. It was FAMILY from the beginning. In a setting out of Gatsby, with small classes, a progressive educational system focusing on children getting experiential learning and planned trips all over the world, this school built confidence, built experience, and built lifelong friendships. My kids still have many close friends from their days at CSS. My daughter went from a precocious kindergarten dufus to become an attorney. She married on the campus, in the majesty of the Trianon, with many of her CSS classmates and teachers in attendance. My son went from a Ninja Turtle moon boot kindergarten picture on the CSS steps to an international business degree at DU, and now pursues a commercial real estate practice in Denver. He will marry there this summer and many CSS and DU friends will be in attendance. The CSS education started with ice cream socials, proceeded to big friend, little friend, was a flurry of intensive and personal education and trips all over the world, and ended with graduation as the kindergartners sang to the seniors. It was a dream. My kids played almost every sport, my daughter was a cheerleader, sports were incredible and both were class leaders. This small school gave them a chance to do everything. EVERYTHING. Both kids later coached at the school. My wife and I have gone to games for years after our kids graduated. Every time it is like an old home week reunion. The Colorado Springs school was the best decision we ever made. Let's be clear: deciding where your kids go to school is exercising control. You are controlling where your kids are educated, by whom they are educated, and who they get to grow up with in a real and personal way. Just as you decide what they eat and what sports they play and many other facets of their lives, giving your kids an education at this school gives you the ability to give your kids your best shot. None too soon your kids will use their fresh, clear eyed (and all knowing) 18 year old knowledge of the world to choose their college and oh boy is that an eye opener. Until then though you can guide them, and guide them well, by sending them to the Colorado Springs School. You are choosing FAMILY. The Colorado Springs School is FAMILY. My wife and I have always thought that the job of parents is to give their children roots and wings. Our hearts tell us that a tangible part of the roots we provided was CSS. You love em up and then send them off as preschoolers and kindergartners to be educated by others; a leap of faith as you hold back your tears. The trust we gave to CSS was rewarded beyond anything we could have dreamed. It was the job of CSS to help us protect them and prepare them until their wings were ready for the next step. CSS came through in spades and they still do.Tony Cross

This school offers an amazing education. My three kids each started the school when they were 3 years old. This school has supported them, given them opportunities at every turn, and challenged them to grow as people. Two of my kids have now graduated from the high school, and the third will graduate next year. It has been an amazing combination of strong academics with experiential education… a place where my kids could call “home” all while taking AP classes, diving into immersive seminars, join in the tennis team, the robotics club, the many band opportunities, the theater program… lots of opportunities to be involved at this amazing school. 18 years, and I wouldn’t have sent my kids anywhere else!Linda Jackson (Lind7a)

We relocated to Colorado Springs this school year so that my two teenage daughters could join the CSS Upper School (high school). The school community embraced our family immediately. My children are known, they are involved in sports and clubs, they are making friends locally and from all over the world, and they are getting and excellent college preparatory education. What more can a parent ask for?Joy Maguire-Parsons

Good Zoo. Lots of up hill walking so wear good shoes. It’s windy on the mountain so a jacket might be good to. There is coffee at the Cozy Goat. The “Loft” has reptiles, I thought it was a restaurant from the outside. There is a lot to see but can be done in a few hours. Look at the website for scheduled feedings and animal encounters before you go. Like wolf feeding at 11:00 penguin feeding at 3:15. The morning is less crowded. There is is another attraction to see while you are at the Zoo! The Shrine of the Sun is located above the Zoo, your Zoo ticket includes admission to the Shrine of the Sun. Shrine closes at 4pm so you will want to make sure you leave time for this. Or go before you go into the Zoo. There is a drive up gate to the left of the main Zoo entrance and you drive to the little shack and show your Zoo ticket. Then you can drive up to the Shrine through the Zoo. This is the only way to get there. The Zoo doesn’t advertise this at all. Also your Zoo ticket is good for 2 weeks for the Shrine. If you have 4 people in the car you need to show 4 Zoo tickets, and i believe if you are a member of the zoo your annual pass works for the Shrine too.Brandy Mitchell

Believe the hype! This is probably one of the best and well-thought-out zoos we have ever been to. Each exhibit is truly unique and you really don't feel bad for any of the animals. They seemed to be well taken care of and overall content with the zoo life. Some of the animals like the baby kangaroos and peacocks were just out and about. Our kid had a blast with them. After coming here, we didn't even bother with the Denver Zoo. The gift shop selections could've been a bit better, but I'm not going to take points off for that. Bring a solid pair of walking shoes, as this park is in the side of a mountain and you'll have some decent elevation changes to take on. I also suggest looking into pre-purchasing tickets (like most parks in Colorado) to help with parking. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$21–30Adam Voight

This is an amazing zoo! When you first walk in you have the option to feed the giraffes. The way they have the fencing you can pet them and see them even if you don't want to feed them. Most of the animals you could see really well. They had several encounters where you could feed them my girls fed the rhino and my sister fed the elephant. We also rode the lift that goes above the zoo it's a beautiful view, and you can see animals along the way. I highly recommend going to this zoo I've been to many and this is one of the best!! Go early as there is lots of walking and that will ensure you get to see everything before close. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
Up to 10 min

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$31+Eden Foster

We love our Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum. We find it a very sweet and nice place to visit, for all ages. We've taken our parents, friends, relatives, and even kids and they've all found something to explore and enjoy. Free entrance, but recommend leaving a donation to support the Museum. Interesting to see the Van Briggle room on thr lower level, see the huge antique cash register in thr lobby, ride the beautiful antique elevator, see the transplanted Helen Hunt house, and visit the tuberculosis exhibit. The building itself is a gorgeous historic property to take in. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeJeff & Diana Dean

The most beautiful building downtown and a testament to the spirit of exploration and discovery. This building used to be the county courthouse, and unlike the imposing, somber Brutalist structure that now serves that function, it is airy and ornate. The Italianate spire, the wide arches, the exuberant use of columns — all indicative of the Beaux Arts style at its best, with some Art Nouveau flourishes in the stained glass. I visited here often as a school kid, but it's so much more vast and light-filled than I remember.Joshua Fagan

Excellent museum ! All is interesting. The display shows the life in Colorado Springs by the time of the pioneers. Remarkable citizens and claim for human rights have a good space and very interesting documental material plus the claim for human rights which I advise you take your time to sit and watch. The admission is for free !!! and it has a small museum shop where they can reply all your questions. I recommend it !Cecilia Farias

Amazing school, top notch teachers, hard working students, great facility, lots of cool tech (4x 3D printers, laser engraver, 3D router, tablets for designing apps, nice computers), nice court yard, would absolutely recommend without a doubtBradley Baker

St. Mary's is the best of both worlds. Small class atmosphere and very challenging academics. My kids have stood out and have blossomed into the individuals they are meant to be. Wonderful!Marnie Terry

Disappointed to find out that this school is not as wonderful as it appears. I would recommend anyone interested in attending this school to look much deeper than what is presented on the days they have set up for tours and new students. I was interested in the school for my son but many negative and scary information has come to light as I started to dig. I agree with joshua TFB review on here and have also found out that it gets worse than what he has mentioned. I would be terrified to let my child attend, especially board at this school.Karen Thomas

Graduated in 1977 and without a doubt one of the best things to happen in my life. Parents and students looking for an education and a fully rounded program of student life, mentorship, and activities…FVS is the school for you. Go to the school website and read about FVS and if you are lucky enough to go there it will be a life changing event!Richard McClintock

I would not recommend this school to any parents. The school has it's on agenda which doesn't include the interest of the children at the school. I decided to take my daughter out of this school due to many underlying issues that are difficult to see until your directly involved as a parent of a student or a student at school.chris butterfield

We visited while in Colorado springs. My kids were looking forward to this for months. When I arrived the lady at the desk was arguing with her son on the phone and the smell of the trash nearby was overwhelming. Still the kids were excited until the lady continued to follow them, nitpicking everything they did. First there was a "tool" hanging that looked like an obstacle that my son was playing with and she snapped at him. Then the kids were trying the slack line and using a rope hanging nearby to help them across, she came over and put the rope up so they couldn't use it and told them they need to work on balance more. She shouted out encouragement to the kids who were members, but never once tried to encourage my kids who were trying this for the first time. I don't know why she was determined to ruin our experience, but she was and she succeeded.Brittany Huston

The gym itself it pretty cool. The kids enjoyed themselves. The coaches are encouraging and present. However I would not recommend for birthday parties. Parents were asked to sign waivers to be on the mat with their kids then consistently asked to leave to mat. The birthday childs parents were even asked to leave unless they were taking pictures. The reason, "in the past parents had pushed their kids to do exercises resulting in them getting hurt". So, what was the point in signing an adult waiver from the start? You're basically paying for the gym time, coaches/babysitter and an empty open room. I think we'll stick with the Ninja Gym at Lost Island for future parties where you're able to encourage and be present with your child.Paz Family

We love Altitude Ninja Gym! We joined hoping the weekly class would help our 5 year old become more confident in his skills. Thanks to the excellent coaches and owner Michelle, he is much more confident around the course AND trying new skills outside of the gym now! Michelle is very compassionate, flexible and understanding; she is very dedicated to the success of each Ninja. Thank you ANG!Janet Wagner

I am super impressed with everything Kasey has going on with her Endurance Sport Center! She is constantly adding new programming and ideas to reach participants at every level of the pay scale. I know Kasey really cares about helping her clients to reach their full potential. Most recently I attended her bike fit for women clinic. The presenter was likely the most knowledgeable I had ever heard on the subject, and he joined us all the way from England. Both he and Kasey broached difficult topics that are usually shied away from in such formats, and for that I say "Kudos." From Kasey, I am gaining additional expertise to in turn help my clients learn better skills and position on the mountain bike. Personally, she is helping me to lead a higher quality of life through her guidance on nutrition and lifestyle changes. I am very appreciative of her services!MTB with Stacy

I came to Kasey after racing Cross Country and Endurance mountain bike races at an elite level for about 5 years, with the intention of switching disciplines and racing Enduro and Downhill, both of which are much shorter duration, and much higher intensity. Kasey not only understands how to develop endurance and speed, but also has the know how to build strength, muscle, and flexibility, something a lot of standard "endurance" coaches do not well understand. Following Kasey's guidance has helped me to put on a considerable amount of muscle and weight and I'm more than stoked to see that pay off on the race course this summer. Not only do I feel stronger, but lots of the aches and pains that typically accompany training at a high level have subsided because I'm a more well rounded and well developed athlete.Matt Jones

I met Coach Kasey (virtually) right before New Years. I was at a point in my life where I felt I had given up on taking care of myself and it was such a blessing to have come across an invitation from her to complete a 30 Day to 5K program. Even though I’ve always considered myself a runner, the training that Coach Kasey provided just proved to me that I had so much to learn about training, consistency, rest, and working on other aspects of my life besides the physical training (to be successful at my goals). She taught me to be compassionate towards myself and learning compassion towards myself has really changed my life. I will always be grateful for Coach Kasey and everything she has taught me. Her training style is exactly what I needed when I felt like I could never get back into shape again.Iris Hyacinth Cleveland

The Wellness Center at UCCS is fantastic. I have gone here for crisis therapy, flu shot, medication, and medical care. All aspects I have visited have been fantastic. Even though they didn't take my insurance, the services are very affordable and reasonably priced. My spring semester was very rough, and the Wellness Center really helped me through the difficult months. One thing I wish is that it might be open on weekends towards the end of the semester. It's busy during that time, and I was pretty sick, but I had to wait over the weekend because it was booked. I didn't have a car, so the center was my only option. So do be prepared for this towards the end of the semester. Every time I call, someone picks up the phone, and if who I need to talk to isn't available when I call, they always call back within a couple hours. The rec center portion is always very clean, and the view of Pikes Peak from the upper level is beautiful. Overall I am very satisfied with how supportive and friendly everyone has been this semester towards my needs. Thanks UCCS! Keep up the great work!Robyn Christine

Great staff. Doctors are friendly and the service is great. They only charge $15 a visit and that can be reduced with a few waiver which they will happily give you. Wait time is not long either. Just make sure to make appointments well in advance if you want to see a doctor during finals week. This is a great option for students. This facility is not open to the public. The wellness center is located inside the rec center and to the left. You will need your student ID number to make appointments or use the services here.Christian Miller

Would give it 5 stars but I can never seem to use the equipment when the semester is in full swing. ROTC takes over in the mornings and all the other students keep it busy in the evening. The only time they are not busy I think it when there are classes which does not help the people who are in those classes. It's a great gym tho with lots of equipment, just that the equipment is never available 🙁River Gassen

I wanted to make a wooden nativity. My sister looked through the stack of these with a careful eye because they had spotted a broken piece. They found one appearing to be intact. I opened it in front of one of the employees and spotted one of the words was broken. Upon bringing it to her attention she mentioned they could “glue it together “. I wanted to make something I was proud of. Her response and the response of her “manager” was if you open the seal it is yours. LET THE BUYER BEWARE!!! Wether you break it or they have, if you open it, it is yours…….. with or without a full value.Becky Kosley

I took my 2 youngest granddaughters to Brush Crazy today for the first time. They are 10 & 5 years old. I was THRILLED to find that there were a lot of different media for them to paint including canvases, wood, ceramics, and fabric. There was a range of difficulty allowing them to work at their own level for age and ability. They both stayed focused on their project clear through completion. They both really enjoyed themselves. Before we could get out the front door they were asking when they could go back!Amy Smith

I met the owners after they presented at 1 Million Cups in Colorado Springs over a year ago and when my family and I went in today they remembered me and were happy to meet the whole family 🙂 This was fun for us as adults, for our teenagers, and our 5 year old. We will definitely be doing this again and again! They have really cute and original things to chose from, lots of space, and it was easy even though I'm an amateur!Samantha Sargent

Can't say enough about how great the studio is! My daughter has been there for about 2 seasons and finished her first year in the KDA company. Truly feel part of the KDA family. Brought my shy daughter out of her shell. Helping build life long skills in structure, fitness, and responsibility in a super fun way. KDA ROCKS!Melissa Radke

We are so thankful we found Kemper Dance Academy! KDA is a professionally managed studio with amazing staff! The classes, choreography & technique learned is top notch. I only wish we started here a few years sooner! My daughter loves it here.Elisabeth Everett

We love KDA so much that even though we moved to Michigan 4 years ago we STILL come back to dance here every opportunity my daughter can get. So grateful for the staff and the amount of love they have poured into my little dancer.Danielle Virshek

I've been taking weekly adult clay classes at Pikes Peak Artist Collective with Rebecca for about 3 months and I couldn't ask for a better experience. I took a few art classes in high school but otherwise didn't have much experience with clay and I wasn't really sure what to expect. I've learned so much about wheel throwing, hand building, carving and glazing and my skills have improved immensely since my first class. I like the free form of the class because I can experiment with different shapes and techniques and Rebecca is always there to provide constructive feedback and guidance. I love having time set aside each week to be creative in a cozy, relaxing environment with someone so invested in helping each student discover and develop their own point of view as an artist.Becca Blackburn

I had been wanting to get back into ceramics for years and had never found a place that fit what I was looking for. A friend of mine suggested Pikes Peak Artist Collective. I LOVE the flow of the classes! Rebecca (the amazing owner) offers as much or as little direction as you want. You are free to work on whatever types of projects interest you most. Personally, my favorite is the potting wheel! Rebecca is full of knowledge, enthusiasm and guidance. She makes you feel right at home in the studio! The monthly fee for weekly classes is very reasonable. I really enjoy the other students as well! The whole studio has an incredible vibe! I strongly recommend Pikes Peak Artist Collective!Sara Cripe

I am so happy my family and I have found this place! I have been searching all around for a reasonably priced art SCHOOL around the area. This place actually holds regular classes weekly for kids in a nurturing setting. Not just a few-days-in-one-week kind of workshops. Although, the business does offer such workshops. Class sizes are normally fairly small, that way you know your child gets the important attention to help them expand their talents along with the freedom to let them be themselves. Rebecca owns as well as runs classes here and she is a pleasure to work with. She brings a wonderful balance of educational understanding of art and the love and appreciation that comes with it.Hazel LePage

If I could leave 100 stars I would. Shay is absolutely AMAZING. My daughter hasn’t been socialized a whole lot as I’m a stay at home mom. We tried dance class and Layla is a lot of energy and likes to run and be loud and her dance teacher didn’t seem to be thrilled by any of that. So we decided to give soccer a try and see how it would go. Layla was able to run and be her spunky loud self with no judgment from her coach, shay. Layla had moments were she would get upset about falling behind on things and and feeling last and shay made a point to dedicate one on one time with her all while teaching the rest of the class at the same time. She built Laylas confidence in a single lesson and I have to say I’m impressed. My daughter is having a hard time learning the “share” and “team” effort behavior and we are hoping these are the skills she will gain in curricular activity. It took one try out class and watching shay work her magic to ease our minds that our girl is safe and can learn and have fun at the same time with other kiddos her age with a coach who goes above and beyond for her class. She really knows what she’s doing and is a natural with the kids. We couldn’t stop raving about how amazing she was. I even said “wow I didn’t even need to intervene” Shay handled it and made Layla feel safe, confident and like she was doing the best job all while doing the same for others. She’s amazing and she is the reason we decided to make the official decision to switch from dance to soccer for our girl. Highly recommend this facility. Everyone I’ve spoke with has been knowledgeable and kind!Marissa Cone

My daughter, Sarah, immediately connected with Coach Shae! her first few classes she was more hesitant, now that we've been going for about 2 months, there has been a lot of significant improvement in how she listens to her coaches, how she plays during their activities, and even how she interacts with her peers. Sarah has worked with a few different coaches now, and she connects with them all (usually) by the end of class. Being in the 3-4 age range, they play a lot of games that teach the kids the fundamentals to build on later, and it's been great to see how excited really every one of the kids gets when they start a new activity! Other staff members always stop by while we watch the class to make sure Sarah is doing OK with everything and that she's still enjoying her classes.Caitlin Farmer

Soccer Buddies is such a great program to introduce soccer, teamwork, and learning about playing sports. I love the creativity used and high energy to make it fun. For the littles just starting out it is about listening, playing, and learning some simple skills that will later translate to soccer later on. They have such a great variety of coaches and we love all the times and locations available. The free trials are great to see if your little one is ready and if it is a good fit. We've tried other soccer programs but the energy and creativity are just above the rest. We love Coach Shae and Coach Scott. We highly recommend Soccer Buddies!Elle Wade

Though my twin girls love this place and it has a lot of potential… We have had issues with the owner Valerie as she or the other girls there kept making unauthorized charges to our debit card tied to our account. She initially was kind about their mistakes saying it had to do with their corporate software program and offered free classes. Later though, she become rude and hostile blaming us for all the charge back demands even after they would cancel classes with no notice supposedly due to low enrollment?! She even canceled our membership early! They have also had such a high turnover of employees, I couldn’t keep track of anyone! Valerie was also hardly ever on-site which didn’t help either.Carrie Fanola

I tried to give the little gym a chance, but there is not enough structure, nor are there enough teachers. Our daughter (who is 4, mind you), had a tough time with class and there became zero effort by staff to engage her. They let her run off on her own with zero supervision. This is not safe. There was zero discussion with me about what they could do better. She was not even acknowledged when she walked into class this evening. If you cannot handle a 4 year old, you should not be working at the Little Gym.Meghan Gaule

I’m so happy to be a part of The Little Gym family. I joined the “mommy and me” style class to help me learn how to help my son achieve his milestones. The class has done exactly that, there are guided exercises and I enjoy being around other parents who have kids my son’s age. The entire staff is so friendly and helpful. Mrs. Pamela is phenomenal with the children and an insightful teacher. I would definitely recommend!Denise Romano

We absolutely love going to Flipshack. I have 5 children that have been going here for nearly 6 years. It has dramatically improved their confidence and self esteem. The coaches and the owner all actually care deeply about the kids and are great with them. Flipshack has become like my kids' second home. Not only do the classes provide a safe place for children to release their energy, but the instruction is excellent. My three oldest children are developing skills and able to do tricks I thought I would only see in the Olympics; it is seriously impressive. Some other lady mentioned not being accommodated for a make-up class in her review and being given a pass for free open gym as a substitute. Let me just say that my kids have taken ballet, music instrument lessons and done other sports and NO other place I have gone has ever offered a make-up class for when I was the one that couldn't make it to a class, much less given me a coupon for a free open class when they couldn't accommodate my schedule further. They have ALWAYS accommodated the customer as much as is reasonable and have supported my family as much as possible. Flipshack is seriously awesome!Heather

We love Flipshack! One daughter started 1.5 years ago at the age of 4 and is still in love with it and now our younger daughter has begun too and is so excited. The coaches have paid close attention to our older daughter's abilities and let us know when they thought she was at a point to move on to the next level. This keeps her interested and challenged while still having a blast. I think Flipshack strikes a great balance between teaching the kids great skills and having a well-structured program, while making sure it's not too intense and is an atmosphere where kids can really have fun. And rather than avoiding parents (which is the vibe given off by some gyms), Coach Wayne and the rest of the staff welcome the presence of parents and encourage their involvement. We highly recommend this great gym.Phoebe Graves

Don't use this place if you want gymnastics I was on a waitlist for classes, got a text about availability. I texted them. No response. Called them. The guy didn't want to give me info. Then on pushing her said that all they have is an open gym for the kids to run around and climb on obstacles. They do very little coaching per him. So so essentially it's just supervised playground time for an hour. I said I wasn't paying for something I could do free at a public park. He then back peddled and said oh no we do do coaching. Then he said again no coaching. I have no clue what they do. He said they have gymnastics but only during the work week and during school hours. He then ignored my questions This place seems awful if their phone skills indicate anything.Meghan B

Above the bar industry-standard in so many ways. You can tell within 10 seconds that Heather and Isaac are here with a genuine purpose to help improve their student. The vibe of the studio is chill and welcoming. There is excellent communication. Starting with a phone call within minutes of enrolling for a class for Women's Self Defense, to email explaining the class and other classes, to being greeted at the front desk when I arrived for class, taken on a quick tour of their giant facility, the class itself was engaging with dialog in all directions and respect for all of us. You just get a caring experience. The Women's Self Defense Class. I've taken a few over the last few years. This one was much longer and I felt I learned new points of view I hadn't considered before. New reasons to take this part of life serious and encourage other women to learn as well. I really appreciate that he had some of his students there helping lead the physical portion of the class. Shout-Out to Miss Nancy! Sort of got a little confusing when all of us broke into groups but that got back on the rails with GOOD COMMUNICATION to everyone quickly. Highly recommend you attend a class, meet Heather and Isaac, meet their students/instructors and he even had two of his son's there who were AMAZING in skills. I didn't get to talk with them but the way they worked with Isaac I could tell they have worked hard. Overall this was the best 2.5 hours of time for me. Now to show up for further classes – with a PLAN and PRACTICE: Eyesight, Breathing, Balance…Closest Weapon/Closest Target.Sarita Shoemaker

I signed my 3 (little) boys up for a trial run in May and since day 1 we have all been hooked. They love the instructors and the interactions they have with them. They've made several friends and have developed a closer relationship with one another. They love everything they learn and they get so excited that they can't wait to go back to martial arts. They practice what they learn at home and they even make their toys practice. As a mother, I recognize that they listen better, they feel more confident about themselves and they light up like the 4th of July when they overcome an obstacle or receive praise from one of their many instructors. They push themselves to learn something new because they're so excited to. They inspired me to take the adult classes. I've been in class for about 2 months now. I've learned so much!! I've lost weight, toned up, I sleep better, I feel better, I perform better and I've also made friends and enjoy the interactions I have. The best part about it all is how it has enriched my family and brought us into the CFMAF family. I really can't say enough you just have to go try it for yourself.Tribe Love

I can't say enough good things about Master C. and the staff at CFMAF. They have such a supportive and empowering environment! I In just two sessions my children were already feeling more confident and empowered! I highly recommend this place for children and families! They are caring, and patient with children of all age ranges and abilities physically, mentally, and emotionally. I brought my family in in the hopes of teaching them self discipline, self defense, and greater confidence and found that not only are they learning and growing these things but we have also found what is rapidly becoming a great source of support for my family and new second home for my children. Thank you Master C. And the staff at CFMAF!!!Amie Reed

Our youngest son had a blast with his Aladdin class this semester. In his words, it was "extraordinary." He had fun learning songs and dances and working with talented children. He also said, "Sarah's a great teacher." Through this class he believes he is better at listening, singing and dancing. For our family, ACT has provided wonderful opportunities for our kids to grow not just creatively and gaining experience and confidence in public speaking, but they've grown emotionally as well, learning greater empathy and understanding for others through the roles they've played. We so appreciate the safe learing environment and the work they do in helping to bring out the best in our kids.Cynthia P.

A special thank you to Lynn, Meaghan and Christine at the Academy of Children's Theatre for their special contribution to the people of Colorado Springs through a very special company helping young people in so many ways!! The staff at ACT are fantastic! They are honest, responsible, kind and dependable. They really watch out for their students, and are an outstanding credit to Colorado!carl huitt

“Best Children’s Theater Group in town! The entire staff is professional, talented and SO caring to the children. Owner Lynn Hamilton does a super job communicating to parents and is always on top of things! My daughter LOVES the program and is learning so much. ACT is a true asset to the arts community of Colorado Springs."Eliz Carter

The atmosphere is friendly, and the owner is very knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. I attended my daughter's class for the first time tonight, because my wife generally takes her, and it was fun to see the instructor's engagement with the children. Having had a recent and traumatic experience including maltreatment of my children in another environment, I felt at ease with the engagement from the adults with the children at this school. The staff was friendly and professional, and overhearing another instructor speaking with an older student in the hallway, I observed a very informative discussion from the instructor. This instilled confidence for me in the future of my daughter's dance lessons, and I am happy with how the school has helped in giving my daughter great experiences in her dancing. I look forward to the great things The Peak School of Dance will do for my daughter.Ryan Shukis

Amazing family friendly atmosphere. Our daughter joined their company competitive team last year just before COVID. They were very versatile during these crazy times and kept a sense of normalcy throughout their live online and hybrid classes. She’s made giant leaps this year and her confidence and skills have her dancing better and better each week. We have danced other places in town and this place is by FAR the best!Joshua Sprague

We have been at PEAK School of Dance for almost 4 years and we absolutely LOVE it! I’ve had my son and daughter both in classes over that time and they have learned so many valuable life lessons. PEAK has helped my kids develop a love for not only dance, but all movement. The staff is phenomenal; the teachers are truly invested in our kids and their development. We can’t recommend PEAK highly enough!Melaina Bjorklund

My climbing partner and I were looking to increase our technical climbing skills and reached out to Pikes Peak with a very large vague objective. Pete responded promptly and was willing to tailor a course for us to perfectly fit needs we didn't even know we had. We ended on a 6 day alpine rock course covering multi-pitch, rock rescue, and we even fit in some technical crack climbing technique. We were with Matt, who was phenomenal. His technical knowledge was astounding – however I never felt intimidated, or embarrassed (even when I biffed a crack move on a 5.7). He was able to fill our 6 days with the perfect amount of fun and learning. We had two full days of rock rescue. His teaching style was impressive and effective – his love for climbing really shined – and he somehow managed to have us laughing during all 16 hours of hitches, knots and simulated rescues. Through our multipitch climbs I felt safe and confident with Matt guiding us through them. The confidence and knowledge I gained is invaluable. I would recommend Matt and Pete to anyone – from a newcomer to an experienced climber. I know this won't be the last time take a course through them.Mary Prunty

I contacted Pikes Peak Alpine School because I wanted to climb my first 14'er. Gretchen was able to get everything, including the logistics figured out in an incredibly short amount of time. As a novice hiker, I did not feel overwhelmed by the gear list or the prep since the communication was excellent and all of my questions were answered immediately. I signed up for the Two-Day Summit attempt of Pikes Peak via Barr Trail and my guide was Kristen. I successfully summited on 6/4/2022 right after 12:00 PM with the expertise and constant encouragement from Kristen. Not only did she guide me to my first 14'er but provided so much knowledge along the way and an incredible experience. Overall, I cannot recommend Pikes Peak Alpine School enough especially if you're trying to climb your first 14'er. For all my future adventures, I will definitely work with PPAS.Zaeem Khan

I can't recommend Pikes Peak Alpine School enough! We did a 3-day mountaineering course with Pete Lardy (the owner/lead guide), and had an incredible time. Pete did a great job at adapting the course curriculum to fit our current skill level along with the future climbs that we are planning for. He was very good at communicating throughout the course, not only teaching us how to perform specific maneuvers (crevasse rescue, snow anchors, mixed alpine climbing, glacier travel, etc.), but why/when/where to use them as well. He took the time to answer all of the questions that we had and provided tons of advice on gear and climbs along the way. I definitely plan to take a course with them again.Travis Moore

We are visiting from PA and needed to occupy 1.5 hours with our 3YO. We found this spot from a google maps search and are SO GLAD we checked it out. This is definitely one of those places you can’t judge by it’s cover. They have several themed rooms: a building room, a space room, a home/kitchen room, an art room, and a vet room. All these spaces were well stocked and open for kids to play however their imaginations wanted. I was surprised that we could just get our own supplies and use whatever we wanted in the art room. And the staff were very friendly and supportive of all kinds of play. They also had a LARGE collection of books and by looking at the toys, resources and spaces, it’s clear they value diversity, social justice, and equity. When we were trying to leave, my daughter was upset and didn’t want to go. One of the staff members gave us a craft-to-go bag to help cheer her up. It worked. And when I got home, I was amazed at the supplies they gave: glue stick, crayons, beads and stickers, and more. My daughter was able to make several small art projects. I can’t say enough good things about this place. I hope others check it out!! Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
$6–10mary wang

We visited the childrens museum for the first time today and the kids and I were so disappointed. It was so messy, there were nails and screws all over the floors in every room (I glanced down to see one by my baby's foot in the second photo), there was an inordinate amount of hair all over the toys and floor and most of the exhibits were poorly designed and made. I am aware it's a nonprofit so budget must be tight but so many of the larger items were scratched and marked on or so outdated. The free play areas at the library's are better. It's absolutely not infant friendly I couldn't take my eyes off her for a second there were choking hazards everywhere. I'm aware it's my responsibility as a parent to watch her but it made it difficult when I had other kids there to watch. None of this was helped by the fact the thermostats were set to 75. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
Up to 10 min

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
$1–5Erica House

Our toddler (21m) had a blast today! It was our first time in and reading the reviews left by other parents are just so upsetting. After watching our daughter have so much fun, reading the rude comments. We donated $50 and plan to donate toys and books. We would love to volunteer or be on the board. This non profit learning/play space is an absolute gift to the community and is welcoming for everyone. I especially loved the breastfeeding section for nursing moms that even had a boppy! My daughter had so much fun playing in the farmers market and the play house. Toys are in good shape but not brand new (nor should that be). They have several different rooms such as a space room, a farmers market and kitchen, art room among others. This is a great place. Consider volunteering. Entitled Karen's leaving bad reviews have done this place a great disservice.Caroline Hurst

This was the first indoor Easter Egg hunt I have been to and this was certainly a great venue for it. The place is huge! The entire festival was held indoors but there was no getting lost as helpful volunteers guided us every step of the way. There were tons of plastic eggs for the kids up to about age 6 or 7. They made things more challenging for the older kids with fewer prizes so they had to run for them. There were some kid games and vendors selling their crafts. I was impressed by the artist painting children's faces. She was surprisingly quick and very talented. She also paints watercolors on canvas and I would love to see her work sometime. This was a very well organized shebang and we will definitely be back next year.April Smith

Visited here late March and had a wonderful time at the tavern (had the crispy chicken strips with curly fries). The meal was so good and decently priced for being freshly made! I watched a few games that were going on with my fiance (he's the soccer guy) and he was really impressed with the fields and referees. The bathrooms were spotless and the employees were so friendly (Especially the bartender!)Elaina Phillips

If you are looking for a place to host an event, the Soccerhaus I would strongly recommend! Anita and the staff were fantastic and work very hard to ensure we had everything we needed. They went out of there way to make sure everything went well. They even kept the bar open after hours for our staff to have a drink. A big thank you from the NAGA staff and we will see you next year!Jeff Wood