Your Trip Planner: July 24–27, 2025
Welcome, Evan, Abbey, Alec, and Diane!
Select the trip plan that best fits your budget and desired experience:
This plan prioritizes significant savings. Expect very basic accommodations and a focus on free outdoor activities.
To keep costs down, we're targeting the most budget-friendly airlines. This means minimal frills and strict baggage policies!
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$150 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: This estimate assumes you are bringing only a personal item that fits under the seat. Any carry-on or checked bags will incur significant additional fees. Plan to share one small checked bag for all shared items, or pack extremely light!
Target Times: Morning flights on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$140 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: Same baggage rules apply – personal item only or significant additional fees.
Target Times: Morning flight on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Total Estimated Flight Cost: ~$590
**Booking flights immediately is crucial for these budget fares.**
To meet our budget, we'll be staying in very basic accommodation in Colorado Springs.
Type: Budget-friendly hotel with two queen beds, or a very basic cabin/Airbnb with limited amenities (likely a single bathroom).
Budget Target: ~$130 per night (including taxes/fees).
Expectations: Accommodations will be very basic and functional. Focus is on sleeping, not luxury. A kitchenette is highly desirable for food savings.
Areas to Search: Look for hotels/Airbnbs in Colorado Springs, potentially near Old Colorado City or Manitou Springs for better local access and feel.
Total Estimated Accommodation Cost (3 nights): ~$390
**Finding accommodation at this price for 4 adults in July requires immediate booking and flexibility.**
A compact rental car is essential for exploring Colorado Springs and its surrounding natural attractions.
Vehicle Type: Compact or Economy car.
Pickup: Denver International Airport (DEN).
Estimated Rental Cost (4 days): ~$45 per day, totaling ~$180.
Estimated Gas Cost: ~$50 (for travel to/from COS and local exploration).
Note: Space will be tight for 4 adults and luggage. Pack only essentials!
Total Estimated Transportation Cost: ~$230
This itinerary focuses on maximizing free and low-cost outdoor activities around Colorado Springs.
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive DEN, pick up rental car (compact!). Drive to Colorado Springs (~1.5-2 hrs). Check into accommodation.
Late Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore Garden of the Gods Park. Drive the scenic loop, stop at viewpoints, and enjoy short, easy walks. Bring water!
Evening: Grocery store run! Stock up on breakfast, lunch, and some dinner supplies. Prepare a simple dinner at your accommodation.
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Morning Activity (FREE): Visit North Cheyenne Cañon Park. Enjoy a scenic drive and short, easy hikes to see Helen Hunt Falls or Silver Cascade Falls. Look for local wildlife.
Lunch: Picnic lunch packed from your groceries, enjoyed in the park.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Hike at Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Explore trails with unique red rock formations, offering different views than Garden of the Gods.
Evening: Prepare dinner at your accommodation.
Morning Activity (FREE): Visit the U.S. Air Force Academy. Explore the Visitor Center and the iconic Cadet Chapel (check for public access and hours).
Lunch: Picnic lunch from your groceries.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore Old Colorado City. Stroll through the historic district, window shop, and enjoy the charming atmosphere. Consider a quick visit to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (free admission).
Evening (Budget Dining Out): Your one meal out! Grab an inexpensive, casual dinner at a local pizza spot or a casual Mexican restaurant in Old Colorado City.
Morning: Leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. If time allows, a final short walk or revisit a favorite viewpoint.
Drive: Head back to Denver International Airport (DEN) for your flights. Allow ample time for traffic and car return.
Total Estimated Activity Costs: ~$50
This budget allows for minor parking fees or one small paid attraction.
This budget relies heavily on self-catering to save money. Embrace grocery store meals and picnics!
Total Estimated Food Cost: ~$480
Be prepared for the unique environment of Colorado!
Remember the strict baggage limits for budget airlines! Pack light and strategically.
Target Total Budget: $1,500 - $2,000
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights (4 people) | $590 |
| 🏨 Accommodation (3 nights) | $390 |
| 🚗 Transportation (Rental Car & Gas) | $230 |
| 🍽️ Food & Dining (4 people, 4 days) | $480 |
| 🏞️ Activities & Park Fees | $50 |
| GRAND TOTAL ESTIMATE | $1,740 |
**This is an aggressive budget and requires strict adherence to the cost-saving strategies outlined above, especially for flights and food.** Every booking decision will impact the final cost.
This plan offers slightly more comfort in accommodation, some flexibility with baggage, and a few more paid activity options, while remaining budget-friendly.
We'll look for value airlines that allow for a checked bag to improve comfort.
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$150 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: This estimate assumes you are bringing only a personal item that fits under the seat. Any carry-on or checked bags will incur significant additional fees. Plan to share one small checked bag for all shared items, or pack extremely light!
Target Times: Morning flights on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$140 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: Same baggage rules apply – personal item only or significant additional fees.
Target Times: Morning flight on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Total Estimated Flight Cost: ~$590
**Booking flights immediately is crucial for these budget fares.**
A slightly more comfortable hotel or a basic, well-rated Airbnb in Colorado Springs.
Type: Mid-range budget hotel (e.g., Quality Inn, basic Holiday Inn Express) or a well-rated Airbnb/cabin. Look for properties with good reviews for cleanliness and comfort.
Budget Target: ~$130 per night (including taxes/fees).
Amenities: May include basic complimentary breakfast. A kitchenette is still highly recommended for food savings.
Total Estimated Accommodation Cost (3 nights): ~$390
**Immediate booking is advised as July is peak season.**
A compact rental car provides necessary flexibility for exploration, remaining cost-effective.
Vehicle Type: Compact or Economy car.
Pickup: Denver International Airport (DEN).
Estimated Rental Cost (4 days): ~$45 per day, totaling ~$180.
Estimated Gas Cost: ~$50 (for travel to/from COS and local exploration).
Note: Space will be tight for 4 adults and luggage. Pack only essentials!
Total Estimated Transportation Cost: ~$230
This itinerary balances free outdoor activities with one or two popular paid attractions around Colorado Springs.
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive DEN, pick up rental car. Drive to Colorado Springs (~1.5-2 hrs). Check into accommodation.
Late Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore Garden of the Gods Park. Drive the scenic loop, stop at viewpoints, and enjoy short, easy walks.
Evening: Casual dinner out at a local, budget-friendly restaurant in Old Colorado City or downtown.
Morning Activity (Paid Option): Drive the Pikes Peak Highway for breathtaking summit views. (Toll ~$15/person or ~$50/car, a great value if shared).
Lunch: Grab lunch at a casual eatery near Pikes Peak (e.g., Summit House) or pack a picnic.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Visit North Cheyenne Cañon Park to see Helen Hunt Falls and enjoy easy hikes.
Evening: Prepare dinner at your accommodation to save costs, or enjoy another casual meal out.
Morning Activity (FREE): Visit the U.S. Air Force Academy grounds and Visitor Center. Explore the stunning campus and architecture.
Lunch: Picnic lunch from your groceries.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore the shops and art galleries in Old Colorado City or visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (free admission).
Evening: Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner out at a well-reviewed local restaurant.
Morning: Enjoy a final Colorado Springs breakfast. If time allows, a short walk at a local park.
Drive: Head back to Denver International Airport (DEN) for your flights. Allow ample time.
Total Estimated Activity Costs: ~$100 (allows for Pikes Peak toll and minor parking/small fees)
A good balance of cooking some meals and enjoying local, budget-friendly restaurants.
Total Estimated Food Cost: ~$550
The same core tips apply, with a little more flexibility due to a slightly higher budget.
One checked bag per family might be feasible with this flight budget, allowing for more clothing options. Confirm with airline!
Target Total Budget: $1,500 - $2,000
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights (4 people) | $590 |
| 🏨 Accommodation (3 nights) | $390 |
| 🚗 Transportation (Rental Car & Gas) | $230 |
| 🍽️ Food & Dining (4 people, 4 days) | $550 |
| 🏞️ Activities & Park Fees | $100 |
| GRAND TOTAL ESTIMATE | $1,860 |
This plan offers a comfortable balance between cost and experience, staying within the budget.
This plan prioritizes ease with a slightly more comfortable rental car and more dining out, while remaining within the overall budget by focusing on Colorado Springs.
We'll look for value airlines that allow for a checked bag to improve comfort.
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$150 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: This estimate assumes you are bringing only a personal item that fits under the seat. Any carry-on or checked bags will incur significant additional fees. Plan to share one small checked bag for all shared items, or pack extremely light!
Target Times: Morning flights on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Airlines: Primarily Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines.
Estimated Cost: ~$140 per person (round trip).
Critical Note: Same baggage rules apply – personal item only or significant additional fees.
Target Times: Morning flight on July 24th, return by evening on July 27th.
Total Estimated Flight Cost: ~$590
**Booking flights immediately is crucial for these budget fares.**
A slightly more comfortable budget accommodation in Colorado Springs, aiming for better amenities.
Type: Well-rated budget hotel or a comfortable Airbnb/cabin. Look for properties with good traveler reviews for overall experience and amenities.
Budget Target: ~$130 per night (including taxes/fees).
Amenities: May include a decent complimentary breakfast, and a kitchenette is highly recommended for flexibility with meals.
Total Estimated Accommodation Cost (3 nights): ~$390
**Immediate booking is advised as July is peak season.**
A mid-size sedan offers more comfort and space than a compact, while still being budget-friendly for your drives around Colorado Springs.
Vehicle Type: Mid-size Sedan (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda Accord) for slightly more comfort and luggage space.
Pickup: Denver International Airport (DEN).
Estimated Rental Cost (4 days): ~$75 per day, totaling ~$300.
Estimated Gas Cost: ~$80 (for comfortable exploration and driving).
Benefit: More comfortable for 4 adults and their belongings compared to a compact car.
Total Estimated Transportation Cost: ~$380
This itinerary focuses on iconic experiences and convenience around Colorado Springs, allowing for more time enjoying rather than strict budgeting.
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive DEN, pick up mid-size rental car. Drive to Colorado Springs (~1.5-2 hrs). Check into your comfortable accommodation.
Late Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore Garden of the Gods Park. Take your time driving the scenic loop, stopping at various viewpoints for photos and short walks.
Evening: Enjoy a comfortable dinner out at a well-regarded local restaurant in Old Colorado City or downtown Colorado Springs.
Morning Activity (Paid Option): Drive the Pikes Peak Highway. Spend ample time at the summit, enjoying the views and visitor center. (Toll ~$50/car).
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the summit house on Pikes Peak, or a casual spot in Manitou Springs.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Visit North Cheyenne Cañon Park, taking a relaxed drive and stopping to admire Helen Hunt Falls. You can opt for a short, easy walk near the falls.
Evening: Explore Manitou Springs and enjoy dinner at a local eatery there, or return to Colorado Springs for a different dining experience.
Morning Activity (FREE/Low Cost): Visit the U.S. Air Force Academy grounds and Visitor Center. Alternatively, if interested in wildlife, consider a visit to a local wildlife sanctuary (check for fees).
Lunch: A relaxed lunch at a local cafe or restaurant.
Afternoon Activity (FREE): Explore the charming shops and art galleries in Old Colorado City. You could also visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (free admission) for local history.
Evening: Enjoy a final, more relaxed dinner out at a well-reviewed Colorado Springs restaurant.
Morning: Enjoy a final Colorado Springs breakfast at your accommodation or a local cafe. Consider a short, easy walk in a nearby park if time permits.
Drive: Head back to Denver International Airport (DEN) for your flights. Allow ample time for traffic, car return, and check-in.
Total Estimated Activity Costs: ~$150 (includes Pikes Peak, buffer for optional small fees like museums or parking)
More emphasis on dining out for convenience, but still mindful of the budget.
Total Estimated Food Cost: ~$600
Enjoy the ease of travel while still being mindful of the Colorado environment.
More flexibility with checked baggage, but still pack smart to optimize car space.
Target Total Budget: $2,000 - $2,200
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights (4 people) | $590 |
| 🏨 Accommodation (3 nights) | $390 |
| 🚗 Transportation (Rental Car & Gas) | $380 |
| 🍽️ Food & Dining (4 people, 4 days) | $600 |
| 🏞️ Activities & Park Fees | $150 |
| GRAND TOTAL ESTIMATE | $2,110 |
This plan offers maximum convenience and comfort while still fitting within the budget.