Manitou Springs

Let's get one thing straight: Manitou Springs is not a part of Colorado Springs. Residents here won't hesitate to remind you of this fact. Unlike its much-larger neighbor to the east, this small town in the Rocky Mountain foothills has rejected urbanization. Instead, Manitou Springs -- now a National Historic District -- remains a charming hippie-era haven filled with art-gallery gazers and outdoor-café lingerers.

Consider spending at least two hours aimlessly wandering around this town's funky boutiques or exploring Manitou's many hiking trails. Recent visitors also insist that you stop by Arcade Amusements, Inc. Located in the heart of town, this arcade has roughly 250 old fashioned gaming machines -- all still priced by the penny as they were originally. "I stumbled onto this place on my first visit to Manitou Springs over 10 years ago, and every visit since then has been as good as the first," one gamer tells TripAdvisor. "If you have kids … make time to come here."

Manitou Springs is located on Highway 24, roughly seven miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs. Many visitors pass through Manitou Springs on their way to Pikes Peak, and Pikes Peak Railway passengers will find the train depot here. For more information, check out the Manitou Springs website.