Title: Things to Do in Great Plains in 2026 | Expedia.com [Great Plains Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Great-Plains.dx6209958)[Hotels in Great Plains](https://expedia.com/Great-Plains-Hotels.d6209958.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Great Plains](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Great-Plains.d6209958.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Car Rentals in Great Plains](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Great-Plains.d6209958.Car-Rental-Guide)[Great Plains Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Great-Plains.d6209958.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Things to do in Great Plains ## Find and book activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Great Plains Types of activities Where to stay [Great Plains Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Great-Plains.dx6209958) ![Panorama of a herd of American Bison grazing on the prairie of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in spring ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6209958/113250dc-487b-4f7c-ab79-e68125a7920b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![I've visited many locations over the years, but Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO is still my favorite place on earth. The beautiful red rock formations, serene mountain side landscape, and abundance of wildlife make this a must visit destination. ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/900/e496ad37-cb8b-45fb-97b1-81a4bb675084.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![I was actually quite surprised by the gorgeous landscape of Caprock Canyons State Park on the southern edge of the Texas panhandle. It's the third largest state park in Texas and has several hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. It's also home to the official bison herd of Texas! #texas #caprockcanyons #hiking #roadtrip](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6080855/71a4dbc6-0e31-451e-aaeb-af2defd252dd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Beauty between the swirling red peaks](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/900/c08d8915-1944-43a5-bf7a-5615e4d74288.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Sunflower fields just to the north of Denver International Airport (at this exact marker). Of course you have to go at the right season. Photo taken at sunset #TroveOn #traveltips #GoldenHour #BestOf5](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/996/a3b6ce27-7a0d-41bb-ae25-4bf126b10016.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ### Great Plains Attractions Discover what makes Great Plains tick with the very best [tours & day trips](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209958&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=ToursDayTrips). Check out our top {4 fun activities in Great Plains [fun activities in Great Plains](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209958&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent)}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees. --- - ![find price illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__find_price.svg) ### Explore activities Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. - ![calendar shield illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__calendar_shield.svg) ### Book with ease Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals. [Learn about One Key](https://www.expedia.com/welcome-one-key) --- ## Great Plains must see attractions ### 1\. Union Station Denver Union Station opened in 1914 to serve train passengers traveling across the country. Today, it continues that role, with significant additions of restaurants, shopping and special events geared toward Denver visitors and residents. Admire the building’s glorious Beaux Arts details and enjoy a meal with friends. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Union-Station-LoDo.d553248633992326167.Vacation-Attraction) ![Union Station showing heritage architecture, signage and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248633992326167/9e1d76df-a550-43df-919d-d27bf7c5eaeb.jpg) ### 2\. Garden of the Gods The rugged landscape of the western states of America has long been central to the region’s reputation as the Wild West and the Garden of the Gods is a stunning example of this terrain. As the low, grassy plains around Denver give way to dense woodlands, a series of rock formations rise dramatically upwards. These phenomenal red rocks are the centerpieces of the 1,367-acre (553-hectare) Garden of the Gods park, a favorite destination for hikers, mountain bikers and other lovers of the great outdoors. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Garden-Of-The-Gods-West-Colorado-Springs.d6071579.Vacation-Attraction) ![Garden of the Gods showing mountains and tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071579/61146f1c-2a24-4ebe-a10c-8d7a06e72ccf.jpg) ### 3\. Pikes Peak Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is a 14,000-foot (4,300-meter) high mountain famed for its incredible vistas, high-altitude railroad and opportunities for adventure. It was named after explorer Zebulon Pike, who led an expedition to the area in 1806\. Visit the summit of Pikes Peak at any time of the year to gaze across the spectacular Rocky Mountains. The view from here was the inspiration for Katherine Lee Bates' famed poem, America the Beautiful. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Pikes-Peak-Colorado-Springs.d6071581.Vacation-Attraction) ![Pikes Peak which includes mountains](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071581/3720d2a1-3011-4a50-81ad-cdbfc36516a8.jpg) ### 4\. Badlands National Park Early pioneers were awestruck moving from the prairies to variegated cliffs of what is now known as Badlands National Park. At first glance, these treeless, seemingly endless spires, pinnacles and ravines appear hostile, earning their name of “bad lands.” However, today’s safe access lets you explore the beauty of this geologic wonder. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Badlands-National-Park-South-Dakota.d6129940.Vacation-Attraction) ![Badlands National Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6129940/b47e7da9-9883-4e35-9f7b-cbbacf7bc31f.jpg) ### 5\. Mount Rushmore National Memorial South Dakota’s most popular attraction depicts four 60-foot (18-meter) busts of American presidents carved into granite cliffs. Make the drive out to this mammoth sculpture garden to see one of the most recognizable American landmarks. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/Mount-Rushmore-National-Memorial-Keystone.d6059492.Vacation-Attraction) ![Mt. Rushmore National Memorial Park in Black hills, South Dakota. The sculptures of former U.S. presidents.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6059492/3ab462f1-c95c-47a6-b2b5-41bdf2f4d79d.jpg) ### 6\. US Air Force Academy Step onto the campus of the US Air Force Academy to discover what goes into the training of the country's elite air force personnel. Every year, the military institution puts hundreds of cadets through a rigorous 4-year academic program. [Learn more ](https://www.expedia.com/US-Air-Force-Academy-Colorado-Springs.d6071575.Vacation-Attraction) ![US Air Force Academy featuring modern architecture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071575/c93621aa-007f-44df-896d-2a129ffd96e9.jpg) ## Recommended things to do in Great Plains | Number of things to do | 4 | | ------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Cheapest thing to do on Expedia | [An Epic hunt in Wichita Whimsy Old Town and Downtown](/things-to-do/wichita-whimsy-old-town-and-downtown-hunt.a50666149.activity-details): $15 | | Top 5 things to do | [The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - Wichita, KS](/things-to-do/dinner-detective-murder-mystery-dinner-show-ticket-in-wichita.a46302815.activity-details)[Wichita Scavenger Hunt Walking Activity](/things-to-do/wichita-scavenger-hunt-walking-activity.a51479815.activity-details)[An Epic hunt in Wichita Whimsy Old Town and Downtown](/things-to-do/wichita-whimsy-old-town-and-downtown-hunt.a50666149.activity-details)[Astonishing Bar Crawl in Wichita](/things-to-do/wichita-bar-crawl.a50775995.activity-details) | | Under $25 | [An Epic hunt in Wichita Whimsy Old Town and Downtown](/things-to-do/wichita-whimsy-old-town-and-downtown-hunt.a50666149.activity-details)[Astonishing Bar Crawl in Wichita](/things-to-do/wichita-bar-crawl.a50775995.activity-details) | | With kids | [An Epic hunt in Wichita Whimsy Old Town and Downtown](/things-to-do/wichita-whimsy-old-town-and-downtown-hunt.a50666149.activity-details)[Astonishing Bar Crawl in Wichita](/things-to-do/wichita-bar-crawl.a50775995.activity-details) | ## What to do in Great Plains - With kids ### Things to Do in Great Plains with Kids There are plenty of incredible experiences in Great Plains that the whole gang will love. These are a few of the best [family friendly experiences](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/en/search?rid=6209958&rfrr=ATG.LP.BodyContent&categories=Family%20Friendly) in the area. - [Custer State Park - Private Group Van Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/custer-state-park-kids-tour-free-spring-break-2020.a2327399.activity-details) - [Skip the Line: Transportation Museum Tours Ticket](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/skip-the-line-transportation-museum-tours-ticket.a791430.activity-details) - [Alcohol Ink Landscape Art Class in Estes Park](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/alcohol-ink-landscape-art-class-in-estes-park.a1982265.activity-details) - [Tie-Dye Friday Art Class in Estes Park](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/tie-dye-t-shirt.a1246823.activity-details) --- Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Great Plains? [Search event tickets](https://www.expedia.com/event-tickets/) to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! --- --- ### Discover the most popular places to visit in Great Plains ![Union Station showing heritage architecture, signage and a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248633992326167/9e1d76df-a550-43df-919d-d27bf7c5eaeb.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Union Station Combining transit, accommodations, shopping, dining, and events, this landmark building in downtown Denver offers history and excitement in the Mile High City. [](https://expedia.com/Union-Station-LoDo.d553248633992326167.Vacation-Attraction) ![0_TR005596](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6090965/300d6e73-2a73-4d1c-89bd-b9e5cfaf0490.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Mount Rushmore Explore the great outdoors at Mount Rushmore, a popular spot to commune with nature in Keystone. Discover the area's notable monuments, or seek out its horseback riding. [](https://expedia.com/Mount-Rushmore-Keystone.d6090965.Vacation-Attraction) ![Garden of the Gods showing mountains and tranquil scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071579/61146f1c-2a24-4ebe-a10c-8d7a06e72ccf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Garden of the Gods Get a taste for the Colorado landscape as you explore this huge city park on your own or during a guided bus or Segway tour. [](https://expedia.com/Garden-Of-The-Gods-West-Colorado-Springs.d6071579.Vacation-Attraction) ![Two tall dancing figures grace the foreground and the Denver Convention Center in Colorado used for conventions, events and meetings is in the background.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/500914/a19286f3-ae3e-4b76-b33c-f7edf7b99f4d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Colorado Convention Center During your trip, find out what's happening at Colorado Convention Center, a top convention center in Denver. Amble around this vibrant area's picturesque gardens or experience its great live music. [](https://expedia.com/Colorado-Convention-Center-Downtown-Denver.d500914.Vacation-Attraction) ![Club level is so nice because if there is a rain delay you can head inside to the club level lobby. It is very similar to that of a hotel lobby it was nice.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/996/529bbfd1-94da-4576-b245-d9e2aacf1b61.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Coors Field Catch an event at Coors Field during your trip to Denver. Amble around this vibrant area's picturesque gardens or attend a sporting event. [](https://expedia.com/Coors-Field-Five-Points.d500924.Vacation-Attraction) ![Aerial View of Decadence 2021 in Denver, Colorado](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/500925/ae687e1c-e645-4acd-82bc-80e817d7bcb6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Empower Field at Mile High Catch an event at Empower Field at Mile High during your trip to Denver. Experience the acclaimed art scene or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area. [](https://expedia.com/Empower-Field-At-Mile-High-Sun-Valley.d500925.Vacation-Attraction) ![Pikes Peak which includes mountains](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071581/3720d2a1-3011-4a50-81ad-cdbfc36516a8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Pikes Peak The second-most visited mountain in the world is an easy day trip from Colorado’s capital. [](https://expedia.com/Pikes-Peak-Colorado-Springs.d6071581.Vacation-Attraction) ![Badlands National Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6129940/afaa58d3-28e1-4dac-9850-22f5648c29b8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Badlands National Park Despite the forbidding name, this park has great beauty in its cliffs, prairies and ancient fossil beds. [](https://expedia.com/Badlands-National-Park-South-Dakota.d6129940.Vacation-Attraction) ![Mount Rushmore featuring outdoor art and art](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6059492/ccb26bd9-7ef0-47c2-aa40-8a541719cf14.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Mount Rushmore National Memorial Visit this popular landmark in South Dakota to see firsthand the enormous sculptures of four U.S. presidents carved into a mountain. [](https://expedia.com/Mount-Rushmore-National-Memorial-Keystone.d6059492.Vacation-Attraction) ### Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Great Plains ![Downtown Denver featuring modern architecture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/800030/2d04ba18-386f-4972-95f9-c1cde3b7596f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Downtown Denver 4.5/5(3,712 area reviews) Dive into this bustling financial and entertainment hub, featuring the 16th Street pedestrian mall, Larimer Square, and the Theatre District. Catch a game at Coors Field or Ball Arena, and explore the neighborhood's vibrant dining scene. [](https://expedia.com/Denver-Downtown-Denver.dx800030) ![Aerial View of Cherry Creek Shopping and Dining District in the Denver Metro with Christmas Lights during the Holidays](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/800033/2b3a4d95-3c1a-4946-97d6-4cb16e34f36e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Cherry Creek 4.5/5(239 area reviews) Experience a blend of urban and residential vibes in Denver's Cherry Creek, where tree-lined streets meet shopping and dining at Cherry Creek North. Explore Fillmore Plaza, Manley and Pulaski Parks, or hop on the easily accessible public bus system. [](https://expedia.com/Denver-Cherry-Creek.dx800033) ![LoDo showing a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6253359/db497cee-d77a-418e-9eb2-c0105474cedd.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### LoDo 4.5/5(868 area reviews) Historic district with vibrant nightlife, LoDo offers a mix of clubs, art galleries, boutiques, and over 70 bars and restaurants. Must-visit spots include Coors Field, Ball Arena, and Denver Union Station. Enjoy its walkable, pedestrian-friendly streets. [](https://expedia.com/Denver-LoDo.dx6253359) ![Denver Tech Center Monument](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6000921/0f299c13-a0b9-4b2a-8626-8aa448ebb826.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Denver Tech Center Known for its ample dining options and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Denver Tech Center. You can visit top attractions like Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre and The Landmark Theatre Greenwood Village, and jump on the metro at Orchard Station or Arapahoe at Village Center Station to see more of the city. [](https://expedia.com/Denver-Denver-Tech-Center.dx6000921) ![Central Garden of the Gods Panorama](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635976809340/5893aa2b-c444-4db7-b5e0-807e14cb4dab.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Central Colorado Springs 3.5/5(310 area reviews) While visiting Central Colorado Springs, you might make a stop by sights like U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center and Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. [](https://expedia.com/Colorado-Springs-Central-Colorado-Springs.dx553248635976809340) ![Downtown Colorado Springs featuring signage and a statue or sculpture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6056794/54e675af-a0e7-483a-b79c-26b36bc23d86.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Downtown Colorado Springs 4.5/5(241 area reviews) Restaurants, parks, street art and some of the oldest buildings in Colorado Springs make this a must-see destination. [](https://expedia.com/Colorado-Springs-Downtown-Colorado-Springs.dx6056794) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/Great-Plains.dx6209958.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP..Neighborhoods) --- Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. --- ## Frequently asked questions ### What to do in Great Plains on a sunny day? > - [Private Full-Day Rocky Mountain National Park Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/private-full-day-rocky-mountain-national-park-tour.a387334.activity-details) > - [Rocky Mountain National Park Full-Day Tour](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/rocky-mountain-national-park-full-day-tour.a291477.activity-details) > - [Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/hiking-in-rocky-mountain-national-park.a586134.activity-details) > - [Private Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/private-hike-in-rocky-mountain-national-park.a333954.activity-details) ### What to do in Great Plains on a rainy day? > - [Latin American Art Museum - General Admission Tickets](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/latin-american-art-museum-general-admission-tickets.a536846.activity-details) > - [Outlets at Castle Rock Shop & Play](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/outlets-at-castle-rock-shop-play.a626127.activity-details) > - [40-Minute Walk In Axe Throwing Experience Colorado Springs](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/40-minute-walk-in-axe-throwing-experience-colorado-springs.a797649.activity-details) > - [Bank Heist Escape Room](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/bank-heist-escape-room.a643497.activity-details) ### What is Great Plains famous for? > - University of North Dakota > - North Dakota State University > - Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum > - Chaplin Nature Center ### What should I not miss in Great Plains? > - Ball Arena > - Garden of the Gods > - Coors Field > - US Air Force Academy ### Are there cheap things to do in Great Plains? > - [Latin American Art Museum - General Admission Tickets](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/latin-american-art-museum-general-admission-tickets.a536846.activity-details) > - [Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Mobile by Operation City Quest](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/operation-city-quest-scavenger-hunt-fargo-nd.a1032757.activity-details) > - [Cape Coral City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/operation-city-quest-scavenger-hunt-westminster-co.a1235125.activity-details) > - [Explore Miami with an Unique Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest](https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/operation-city-quest-scavenger-hunt-billings-mt.a1031726.activity-details) ### What can you do in Great Plains for free? > - University of North Dakota > - North Dakota State University > - Chaplin Nature Center > - Garden of the Gods ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app