{Colorado Adventure // Days 4 & 5 // Exploring Castles, Climbing Rocks & Dodging Storms}

Our middle days in Colorado were full of the kind of moments that make you slow down and say, “this is so cool.” From climbing rocks and castle views to creamy shakes and downtown strolls, Days 4 and 5 gave us a perfect blend of adventure, rest, and a whole lot of gratitude.

Tuesday started bright and early...we dropped Mason off at camp, then stayed to watch his first ice session before heading out for breakfast together. After a delicious start to the day, Nate and I made our way back to the Academy to be nearby for Mason’s updated schedule (camp life = flexibility!).

Once Mason wrapped up his day, we decided to take him to Garden of the Gods to see what we’d explored the day before. The skies were moody with on-and-off storms, which gave the whole area a different kind of beauty. We showed Mason Balanced Rock and a few other spots before heading off to explore more of Manitou Springs.

While driving down the main strip, we looked up and spotted an elk walking along the mountain...such a surreal moment! Next up was a visit to the Miramont Castle, where we toured the grounds and explored the gift shop, located in what used to be the old servants' quarters. The shop had a window overlooking all of Manitou Springs...it was so picturesque I couldn’t resist snapping a few photos.

Then we drove over to Glen Eyrie Castle...and let me just say, I cannot believe we’ve been to Colorado so many times and never visited before. Although full tours were reservation-only, they kindly gave us a 15-minute driving pass to explore the property. It was breathtaking...the castle, the grounds, the wildlife (we saw deer and wild turkey)...it all felt like a little slice of a fairytale. I could have stayed here all day!

To wrap up our castle-themed afternoon, we made a quick stop at the historic Broadmoor Hotel...an absolutely stunning place that has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities. We wrapped up the day at Red Rock Canyon, ticking off several items on our Colorado Bucket List in just one day! The Browers had a full night of cheer and baseball practices, so it ended up being the perfect time for us to explore.

After the Broadmoor we tried to go to Seven Falls...only to find they were closed for a private event. So, we drove over to Cave of the Winds. It was too late to get tickets, so we were just going to visit the gift shop. We remembered it being pretty neat when we went years ago. However, once we got up there it began to rain pretty heavy again and the gift shop was a good walk from the parking lot. So we just looked at the mountains and clouds from up top. 

I forgot to mention earlier, but we were caught in about five hail storms on this day. They would come out of nowhere and left very little time to find cover. 

Wednesday morning followed our same rhythm...camp drop-off, then ice session watching. Nate and I originally planned to visit the Academy planetarium, but unfortunately, nothing was playing during our available time. So instead, we just drove around the Academy taking in all the sites. After watching Mason skate, we grabbed lunch at Snarf’s Sandwiches...a small, local sandwich shop that totally delivered on flavor. So good!

After lunch, we headed back to Manitou Springs, this time to walk the strip and pop into a few shops. We even sampled the famous healing mineral water, which is definitely a unique experience. The water was so cold and crisp and we were tempted to drink it but we didn't want to look like "those" people. haha. Plus, we weren't sure how sanitary it actually was. 

Once Mason finished his second ice session, we treated ourselves to something fun...a stop at the legendary BJ’s Velvet Freez, one of the oldest spots in Colorado Springs. Mason went for a birthday cake shake, while Nate and I cooled off with peach smoothies. This place was definitely worth the visit...full of retro charm and sweet, sweet goodness. The food smelled delicious, too!

After that, we ran by the hockey store for some fresh laces for Mason’s skates and swung by the ball fields to watch a bit of each boy’s baseball practice. Another full day, another round of wonderful memories.

These two days were packed to the brim, but they gave us everything we love most about Colorado...small-town charm, stunning views, sweet treats, and special time with each other. We got to explore new places, revisit some favorites, and make memories we’ll talk about for a long time.

Next up... Day 6 and a couple of long-time bucket list dreams coming true...including finally making it to Red Rocks Amphitheater and driving up Pikes Peak! You don’t want to miss it.