Free for all ages and types and one of the best attractions in Manitou Springs are the springs themselves, which are made conveniently available in decorative fountains around the historic downtown.
Stop in at the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau (354 Manitou Ave., 719/685-5089 or 800/642-2567, www.manitousprings.org [1], Mon.–Fri. 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m.), where they will give you a small plastic souvenir cup for sampling the spring waters, a map of the various springs, and a detailed list of the health benefits of the mineral spring water.
I’m not sure why or how, but the water at each of the springs has a completely different taste, some far less palatable than others. There are also guided tours available with reservations in the summer.
Links:
[1] http://www.manitousprings.org