UCCS bucket list: What to do in Colorado before your graduation day

April 11, 2017

Halle Thornton

[email protected]

     With graduation right around the corner, you might feel like your time to explore all the places you wanted to in the Springs is running out.

     But there is still time to knock off some activities on your sight-seeing to do list in our beautiful city if you haven’t gotten around to it yet.

     The Scribe came up with a bucket list of things to do before you potentially leave the city for good.

     Here are some of the top places to explore in and around campus and the city.

The Bluff 

     No excuse could prevent any student from taking the time to check out the bluff. After all, it is part of the campus.

     Whether you’re in the mood for a hike or in the mood for a nice nap in a hammock, somewhere on the bluff will fulfill your needs.

     The bluff has great views of the city, and it is a nice place to unwind after an exam. The campus is also home to various trails on and around campus.

     To find more information about the various trails on and around campus, visit the Recreation Center website at uccs.edu/recwellness.com.

Clyde’s Open Mic and Monthly Trivia

University Center

Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 1-9 p.m., Sunday 1-6 p.m.

     Grab a beer and answer some fun questions every month at Clyde’s. The food is great and the atmosphere is even better.

     Clyde’s also has open mic nights where students get the opportunity to show their artistic side. Themes vary by month, and there are prizes for the best player. The first 30 people through the door will also receive a $2 coupon.

     The next monthly trivia is April 13 from 6-9 p.m. Bring your friends and your knowledge.

The Manitou Springs Incline:

Ruxton Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO, 80829

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day

     Although more people complain about the hike than enjoy it, the Manitou Incline is something every Springs resident should experience.

     Only a mile long, you will gain 2,000 vertical feet and definitely feel it in the morning. But the incredible view is worth the long haul up.

     The base of the incline is located in Manitou Springs, and the town offers a free shuttle to the base.

     If you can make it to the top, make sure to take lots of pictures, because chances are you won’t want to go back.

     For more information about the Incline, visit visitcos. com/things-to-do/outdoors/ manitou-incline-nearcolorado-springs-colorado/.

Manitou Springs

     After you’ve hiked the Incline, stop in historic Manitou Springs for an ice cream or a beer at the local brewery. Manitou Springs is a great town to walk around in and visit the various locally owned shops.

     Although the town is about 25 minutes away from campus, the drive is well worth it. Whether you like rocks, jewelry or food, Manitou has it all.

     For more information about Manitou Springs, visit manitousprings.org/.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre:

18300 W. Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO, 80465

Hours: One hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset, every day

Visitor Center: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

     This outdoor amphitheater has won the Pollstar award for best small outdoor venue 11 times and has hosted music legends like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix.

     Located in Morrison, Colo., about an hour away, this venue is one that is a must for anyone that has lived in Colorado and a great tourist attraction to take your out-of-state relatives to.

     Shows vary from classic rock, to electronic and techno, and if you aren’t in the mood for music, the amphitheater offers yoga as well.

     For more information about the Red Rocks and their shows, visit redrocks.amphitheatremorrison.com.

     Even if you aren’t graduating this spring, these activities are still things to cross off your bucket list before you walk across the stage.