Garden of the Gods Trading Post
The snapshot
Racks of soft tees, shelves of locally made art, mugs for every taste—this is the region's ultimate treasure hunt. But the real magic? Pueblo Revival architecture steeped in history, the aroma of fresh coffee, and one of Colorado's best patios where red rocks fill the horizon. Bring the whole crew.
The full experience
A Treasure Hunt Like No Other
Step inside and let your eyes adjust to the sheer scale of it—more than 25,000 square feet of treasures waiting to be discovered. Wander through aisle after aisle stacked with over 90,000 unique items: souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else, gifts that feel just right, keepsakes worth holding onto. And with prices that won’t empty your wallet, you can browse without holding back.
Savor Every Bite
Follow the scent of fresh-popped popcorn and sizzling burgers to the Balanced Rock Café. Sink your teeth into a juicy buffalo cheeseburger, crispy golden chicken fingers, or a quarter-pound hot dog piled high with your favorite toppings. Craving something sweet? Creamy scoops from Colorado City Creamery and rich, house-made fudge in flavors that melt on your tongue await. Vegan options keep everyone at the table happy. And whether you need a warm latte to shake off a winter chill or an icy Frappuccino on a summer afternoon, Starbucks coffee is always brewing.
Artistry Rooted in History
For nearly a century, the Trading Post has been the Pikes Peak region’s destination for Native American artistry. Run your fingers over turquoise and silver jewelry, admire the intricate patterns of hand-woven textiles, and marvel at pottery shaped by generations of tradition. Founded in 1929 by Charles E. Strausenback, this space once welcomed legendary artists like Awa Tsireh—whose brushstrokes still grace the murals on the walls today.
Unwind with a View
Grab a seat on one of Colorado’s finest patios, where red rock formations rise against blue sky. Linger over lunch, flip through a good book, or breathe in the mountain air while sunshine warms your shoulders. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget you have anywhere else to be.
More Than a Store—An Experience
The Garden of the Gods Trading Post isn’t just a stop on your itinerary. It’s a place to explore, taste, discover, and relax—an experience you’ll find yourself craving long after you leave.
Hours & seasons
Average time
- Typical Visit: 2-3 hours
Difficulty/accessibility
- Handicap parking and ramps throughout for easy access
- Bathrooms are also accessible
- Some merchandise may be challenging to reach, but friendly staffers are happy to assist!
Phone & address
Additional information
The Garden of the Gods Trading Post is much more fabulous and WAY bigger than you expect, so be sure to give yourself enough time to explore it properly.
What we love (and you will too)
Your Local Guide, Cole Powell
Fourth-generation Colorado Springs local, Cole loves to find quieter adventures and places to soak in that Colorado sunshine.
Whenever I need to find a gift for someone, the Trading Post is always my first stop, no matter the occasion. They have smaller novelty gifts, handmade art and jewelry, and even consumables like craft sodas and fudge. Plus, I can bring my dog!
Shockingly Big!
This place is the TARDIS of gift shops (iykyk). It seems modestly sized from the outside, but inside it just goes on and on forever. There’s even a back patio that becomes a beautiful secret garden in the summer!
Plan your adventure
Getting here
- 15 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs
- On the Southwest edge of Garden of the Gods
- Public transportation stops nearby
FAQs about Garden of the Gods Trading Post
Do I have to leave my dog in the car?
NO WAY! They love all well-behaved dogs at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post. Please keep them on a leash and clean up after them.
How long has the Garden of the Gods Trading Post been around?
The front room was built in 1929, but the original owner sold hand carved trinkets at a small stand near the Kissing Camels starting in 1910, when he was only 12 years old! Since then, the Garden of the Gods Trading Post has been owned by only two families.
What is there to eat?
The Balanced Rock Cafe offers burgers — including their famous Buffalo Burger — sandwiches, wraps and salads. Be sure to try the house-made chips! The Kissing Camels Coffee Shop serves a wide selection of Starbuck’s coffee and drinks, ice-cream from the Old Colorado City Creamery and several other desserts. In the main part of the store, you’ll find 30 different flavors of fudge that are made in-house, and a huge selection of local jams, jellies, hot-sauces and candies.
How long will I spend there?
Longer than you think. Even if you’re not a shopper, there’s history and architecture and a tranquil backyard you’re going to want to enjoy for a minute. Trust us!
Call Pikes Peak Region Attractions and talk to a local: 1-800-525-2250
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Price List
It’s free to browse, but you will be tempted to take home some new merch!
