Things to Do with Kids in Colorado Springs This Weekend (October 16–18)

The October weekends in Colorado Springs are running out fast — and this one is loaded with options for families. Whether you're after pumpkin patches, spooky zoo experiences, free workshops, or a festival that invites the dog, here are the best bets for October 16–18.

Check the full list of things to do with kids in Colorado Springs this weekend for everything happening across the city, including last-minute additions not covered here.

2. Boo at the Zoo — All Weekend, 4–8:30 PM

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's Boo at the Zoo continues this weekend, running Friday through Sunday with evening hours from 4 to 8:30 PM. The event features 25 treat stations (including non-food options), spooky graveyard decor, Magic Manor pumpkins, and giraffe and budgie feeding sessions.

This one requires advance tickets — walk-ups are not allowed. Zoo members still need to book a ticket but receive a $5 discount. Reserve at cmzoo.org before you go, because weekend dates sell out.

3. Halloween Stroller Safari at CMZoo — Friday, 9–10 AM

If you have an infant or toddler, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is also offering a Halloween Stroller Safari on Friday morning, October 16, from 9 to 10 AM. Infants under 1 year old are free; non-member admission for older children and adults is $24.75. It's a lower-key alternative to the evening Boo at the Zoo event — better suited for nap schedules and younger kids who do better in daylight.

4. Free Robotics Workshop — Saturday, 11 AM

A free Robotics Workshop for kids ages 5 to 14 is scheduled for Saturday, October 17 at 11 AM at the DoubleTree by Hilton Colorado Springs. The event is open to the public at no charge. It's a strong option if October weather turns cold or gray — and a welcome change of pace from the pumpkin-and-candy circuit.

Check the event listing ahead of time to confirm registration requirements, as some free workshops require advance sign-up.

5. Trunk or Treat at 2020 N. Academy — Saturday, 1 PM

Rex Environmental is hosting a Trunk or Treat event at their location at 2020 N. Academy Boulevard on Saturday afternoon at 1 PM. It's a lower-key, neighborhood-style Halloween option for younger kids who aren't quite ready for a full evening of trick-or-treating.

6. Barks and Boos Fall Fest — Sunday, 11 AM–3 PM (Free)

Barks and Boos Fall Fest on Sunday, October 18 is completely free and runs from 11 AM to 3 PM. The headliner: a pup costume parade and contest. Dogs are welcome, costumes are encouraged, and the whole thing is family-friendly. It's one of the few events this weekend that asks nothing of your wallet.

For a full rundown of events where you won't spend a dime, check the free things to do this weekend page for the latest additions.

7. Cool Science Festival — Through Sunday

The Cool Science Festival wraps up this weekend with final programming through Sunday, October 18. If your family hasn't made it out yet, this weekend is the last chance. The festival brings hands-on science experiences to venues across Colorado Springs, and it's been one of the strongest STEM-focused events of the fall calendar.

What's Next

Next week brings even more Halloween activity — Boo at Briargate and Pumpkins in the Park are both scheduled for October 24, and the Little Learners Monster Mash runs October 22. Keep an eye on the everything happening this weekend page for real-time updates and additions. For all of the recurring family events across the COS calendar, bookmark the weekend guide and check back each Thursday for the week's roundup.