Category: Family

The Ultimate Family Guide to Colorado Springs: Our Favorite Restaurants & Attractions

4/8/2025

Looking for a family getaway that mixes mouthwatering meals with majestic mountain views? Whether you're planning a weekend escape or just exploring your backyard, Colorado Springs is packed with places that will fill your belly and fuel your soul. From speakeasies to scenic hikes, here’s your ultimate guide to the best restaurants and family-friendly attractions in the area—plus a few spots that are just for the grown-ups.

🥞 Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs

Because every great adventure needs a great meal (or three)...

🍔 Skirted Heifer – Burgers done right
Locally-sourced, grass-fed, and grilled to perfection. Their burgers wear cheese like a superhero cape (a.k.a skirt).

🍳 Over Easy – Breakfast with a view
Eggs, pancakes, and house-made cinnamon rolls that make getting out of bed totally worth it.

🍦 Josh & John’s – Iconic ice cream
Handcrafted since the ‘80s, and still the scoop of the town.

🍕 Walter’s 303 – Pizza lovers unite
Great pizza, but go early—weekends are hoppin’.

☕ Loyal Coffee – Hip, yet heavenly
Barista-owned and brewed with love. A perfect spot for your quiet morning moment.

🥂 Allusion Speakeasy – Grown-ups only
A secret gem with rotating themes and incredible cocktails. Reservations highly recommended.

🌮 Salsa Brava – Mexican food with flair
Fresh, bold, and family-friendly. Their salsa is basically a playground for your chips.

🍝 Paravicini’s – Classic Italian comfort
Old-world flavors and generous portions. Mangia!

🍽️ Atmosphere Gastropub – Elevated eats for adults
Not the best for little ones, but a culinary treat for date night.

🥓 Denver Biscuit Company – Southern breakfast bliss
Biscuits bigger than your head. Bring your appetite and stretchy pants.

🍕 COATI – Trendy indoor food court
A mix of eateries under one roof. Everyone gets what they want!

🧊 Ice Cream Mill & Milkshake Factory – Cool treats for hot days
Two sweet spots with serious flavor and Instagram-worthy desserts.

💰 Brother Luck, Summit Room, Prime 25 – Splurge-worthy dining
On the pricier side, but three restaurants worth every bite for special occasions.

📚 Principal’s Office – Coffee with class
Located inside Ivywild School, this coffeehouse is smart in more ways than one.

🏞️ Top Family Attractions in Colorado Springs

Because God's handiwork and family memories go hand in hand.

🌄 Garden of the Gods – Free and unforgettable
Majestic red rocks, walking trails, and rock-climbing opportunities. A true testament to the Creator's design.

🏔️ Pikes Peak – Plan a full day
Drive, hike, or ride the cog railway to "America's Mountain." Don’t forget to sing “America the Beautiful” at the summit!

🏰 Glen Eyrie Castle – History, tea, and turkeys
Tours, teas, and overnight stays in a real English-style castle. Spot bighorn sheep on your stroll!

🦒 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Elevated and engaging
The only mountainside zoo in America. Giraffe feedings and scenic views galore.

🎮 Manitou Springs Penny Arcade – Nostalgia at its finest
Hundreds of vintage games, some still just a penny. Yes, really.

📻 Focus on the Family Welcome Center – Whit's End and more!
Slide down the A-Bend-A-Go, record your own Adventures in Odyssey, and enjoy faith-filled fun for all ages.

🏜️ Paint Mines Interpretive Park – Colorful and curious
A hidden gem with surreal clay formations and a peaceful 4-mile trail. No pets, no bikes—just awe.

🥵 Manitou Incline – Extreme stair master
Not for the faint of heart or weak of knees. 2,744 steps and breathtaking views... literally.

💦 Helen Hunt Falls – Quick hike, big reward
A free, beautiful waterfall that's easily accessible and perfect for short hikes and photos.

🦕 Woodland Park – Small town, big fun
Dinosaur museum? Check. Tranquil lake? Check. Ideal day trip? Absolutely.

💧 Manitou Springs Mineral Springs – Sip your way through history
Taste-test the town’s famous mineral waters with a self-guided walking tour. Just bring a brave tongue!

🌳 Bear Creek Regional Park & Nature Center – Peaceful and educational
A quieter spot to learn about local wildlife and enjoy the great outdoors.

🚂 Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway – Choo-choose your adventure
A picturesque (though pricey) ride up Pikes Peak. For those who’d rather sit than hike.

🦖 Dinosaur Ridge – Tracks and fossils galore
An easy drive from the Springs, and a must-visit for any budding paleontologist.

💧 Seven Falls – Pricey but pretty
A series of cascading waterfalls tucked into a granite canyon. Great for photos, hiking, and awe-struck kiddos.

Final Thoughts: Faith, Family, and Fun

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, conquering mountains, or just craving the perfect burger, Colorado Springs offers something for everyone—especially families who value together time, God's creation, and a touch of adventure.

Got a favorite spot we missed? Let us know in the comments!

📌 Don't Forget to Pin & Share!
Planning your trip to Colorado Springs? Save this guide and bless another family with these must-visit spots.

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Back to School for the Eastmans

8/1/2023

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Buy edge of the galaxy

buy faith and science
with Dr. Fizzlebop

It’s back to school season again, which means the daily routine:

Wakeup
Breakfast
Get Dressed
Go to School/Work
Classes/Meetings
Lunch
Classes/Meetings
School Pickup
Activities
Dinner
Devotions
Sleep

Now my list might not be complete, so let me know what I missed. But I believe an item on this list that I believe is perhaps the most important. Yes, indeed, sleep is essential, but another one is even more important. Yes, the three meals are essential, but not those. This one feeds your spirit.

Devotions, yes, your time with God. Prayer and reading your Bible fills YOU, your soul, your mind, your emotions. We need fuel from God, which happens by spending time with Him daily. The time with our Creator helps us make it through our day.

When I haven’t spent time with our Lord, my attitude sours, and I grow weary and tired from the rigors of our world. Only when He is at the forefront of my mind do I feel full and can reflect His love outward. Even my interactions with my family, friends, and co-workers are better. That's because when we fill ourselves with the good things God has for us (learning through His word), we begin to exude (which also means living out) Him in our attitudes and actions!

So I want to encourage you to find a devotional to start the school year with, read it, stick with it, and find that time with God.

I’ve got a great list of devotionals I wrote up in a post to get you started, and I would love to hear about the devotionals you use in the post's comments section.
Check out the list at the button below.

Devotional list

I hope this list of devotionals helps you start an awesome devotional time at home as you begin your back to school season.

Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop: 52 Fizztastically Fun Experiments and Devotions for Families

$15.99

✨ Introducing Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop - A Fizztastic Adventure!

52 Experiments & Devotions
Full color illustrations
Easy step by step guide
Easy prep with a curated supply list

🔬 52 Easy Experiments for Curious Minds:

Explore the wonders of faith and science with 52 exciting experiments designed for kids and parents to enjoy together. Each experiment, carefully curated by Dr. Fizzlebop, offers a delightful blend of learning and fun, making it perfect for weekly family adventures or convenient exploration at your own pace.

🎥 Fizzlebop Labs Web Series

Enhance your experiment experience! Access how-to videos for each experiment in our free Fizzlebop Labs web series. Dr. Fizzlebop himself guides you through the process, adding an interactive and visual dimension to your scientific and faith-filled journey.

📚 Faith-Infused Devotionals for Deeper Learning:

Connect faith and science seamlessly with devotions accompanying each experiment. Dr. Fizzlebop is on a mission to show kids how these two worlds intersect. Delve deeper into God's amazing design as each experiment unfolds, providing a holistic understanding of the wonders around us.

⏱️ Quick and Engaging:

Busy schedules? No problem! On average, each experiment takes just 5 to 10 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes for the devotional. It's the perfect blend of educational and entertaining content that fits seamlessly into your family's routine.

👨‍🔬 Meet Dr. Phineas Einstein Fizzlebop:

Our expert and slightly quirky guide, Dr. Fizzlebop, is passionate about three things: God, science, and fizz. Embrace his enthusiasm as he leads you through a Fizztastic journey at Fizzlebop Labs. Though a bit cheesy at times, Dr. Fizzlebop's love for God, science, and fizz shines through in every experiment.

🌐 Extravaganza of Experiments and Bible Studies:

Join guest scientists (families) in an extravaganza of experiments and Bible studies. Fizzlebop Labs offers a blend of fun, facts, and fizz, creating an engaging and memorable experience for learners of all ages.

🚀 Embark on a Fizztastic Adventure:

Bring faith and science together in a Fizztastic way! Order Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop now and prepare for a journey filled with awe, wonder, and the joy of discovery. Unleash your inner scientist and explorer with experiments that spark curiosity and devotionals that deepen your understanding of God's incredible design!

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Dr. Fizzlbop's Fizzy Heart Experiment

$0.99 $0.00

Join Dr. Fizzlebop in a fizztastic science experiment and devotional for Valentine's Day.

This digital package includes a how-to video, downloadable instructions, and devotional (pdf).

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Edge of the Galaxy: 30 Faith-Filled Adventures

$15.99

Edge of the Galaxy - A Unique Science-Fiction Devotional

✨Introduction:

Welcome to the captivating world of "Edge of the Galaxy" by Brock Eastman – a thrilling science fiction adventure that seamlessly weaves action-packed narratives with faith-filled lessons. This unique science-fiction devotional takes readers on an interplanetary journey with Gavin Greystone and his family, exploring the challenges of life in space while imparting valuable insights applicable to everyday life.

Key Features:

✝️ Faith-Filled Lessons:

"Edge of the Galaxy" stands out by integrating faith-filled lessons into its gripping storyline. As readers follow Gavin's adventures through his star log entries, they encounter meaningful reflections on faith, identity, and purpose. The narrative serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement, making this devotional a valuable addition to the science fiction genre.

🪐 Interplanetary Adventure:

Set in the year 2095 on the space station Provider above Saturn's moon, Titan, the story unfolds as Gavin and his family embrace life as space explorers. The challenges they face in space, combined with the excitement of exploration, create a dynamic narrative that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Dynamics:

"Edge of the Galaxy" explores the dynamics of Gavin's family as they work together to expand humankind's footprint on the surface of Titan. The story beautifully portrays the bonds of family and the strength derived from unity, making it relatable to readers of all ages.

🎨 Colorful Illustrations:

Enhancing the reading experience, the book features beautiful color illustrations that bring the interplanetary adventure to life. The visual elements add depth to the storytelling, immersing readers in the vast and wondrous landscapes of space.

🧬 Life's Purpose and Identity:

Through numerous trials, Gavin discovers not only who he is but also the plan that God has for him. This theme of self-discovery and divine purpose adds a layer of depth to the narrative, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys of purpose and identity.

In "Edge of the Galaxy," Brock Eastman has created a masterful blend of science fiction and devotional elements, offering readers a unique and enriching reading experience. This Amazon A+ Page serves as a gateway to the extraordinary world of Gavin Greystone and his family, where faith and adventure converge in the vastness of space. Embark on this interstellar journey and discover the profound lessons that await on the "Edge of the Galaxy."

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A Family Christmas Refocused

11/19/2021

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By Brock Eastman
Article first appeared on Tyndale's Parenting Blog in December 2015

Travel by air. Travel by land. Travel by sleigh. Black Friday. Cyber Monday. Gifts for every family member, co-worker, teacher and friend. Peppermint Mocha. Gingerbread Latte. Flavor from your childhood memories of Christmas now in your caffeinated drink as an adult. This is the ‘Holiday Season’ these days.

Entrusted by God as parents of four little souls, my wife and I strive to make Christmas more about why we celebrate, than the over-merchandised cash-in on the ‘Holiday Season’ thing we often find ourselves caught up in. Now I’m not the Grinch and I love yummy flavored coffee, traveling to see family, and getting gifts that will make others’ eyes light up and set smiles on their faces. Still my wife and I hope Christmas will be a time of family togetherness that reflects on the birth of our Savior in a manger. We want our kids to understand that Christmas is not only getting gifts, but of giving gifts. As God gave us his Son, as the Magi gave gifts to Jesus, and as Jesus gave His life for us. To immerse our kids in this idea, we’ve started several meaningful, but simple traditions that help us have fun as a family while learning the importance of giving.

Advent Calendar: I can’t take any credit for this one, aside from taking part and being excited about the activity we’ll pull out of the drawer each day. My wife does a wonderful job creating and planning 25 Advent activities. Starting on December 1st, these activities range from bell ringing for the Salvation Army (yes all 6 of us) to making marshmallow snowmen on paper or going on a family hot cocoa date. Each year we have several activities we keep doing because we’ve found them to be family favorites, while others get replaced with new ideas. And though we’re a few days into December, it’s not too late to start. You can check out a full list below of the Eastman’s 2015 Advent Calendar to get ideas for your own calendar. And you’ll notice our activities aren’t always focused on the birth of Jesus. Pinterest is a great place to find ideas for Advent.

Christmas Reading List: This one is my favorite and not because I’m an author. I love having my four kiddos on my lap and gathered around me while we turn the pages to a Christmas themed book. Ten to fifteen minutes before bed each night or at the dinner table to read a story together is all it takes. We have a wonderful time listening, looking at pictures, and discussing what will happen next in the story. It’s also a great way to help our kids relax before bed. My wife and I have amassed a collection of Christmas books over the last few years, (getting a few books is one of our Advent activities) but for those who may not have a personal library yet, consider going to your local public or church library and checking out a dozen or so books. You can make this an every other night event to get started, but I’m sure your kids will soon ask for a story every night even beyond Christmas. Our books aren’t only about Christmas, some are winter themed. A couple family favorites are The Nutcracker or Snow by P.D. Eastman (no relation, at least that I know of). And the books we read about the birth of Jesus are a reminder of the ultimate gift we celebrate at Christmas. Plus reading to your kids at bedtime or anytime will pay huge dividends later as you’ll see them excel in school and their imaginations flourish. If you need book ideas we’ve created a list for you.

Three Gifts of the Magi: Are your kids’ lists for Santa each a mile long? Has one of your kids ever said, “If you don’t get it for me, I’ll ask Santa?” America is a prosperous country and often that causes us to be more materialistic than we want, it’s simply; we see it, we want it, we get it, because we can. In light of this my wife and I wanted to refocus our family’s celebration of Christmas with an idea that helps simplify our gift giving each year. We use the three gifts the Magi presented to Jesus at his birth as the basis for each gift our kids receive each year; yes that’s three gifts, but each one is intentional and meaningful. This tradition allows us to read of the three wise men and their journey to the manger in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1-12), and creates a tangible connection with the baby Jesus and your children through the gifts they receive and each gifts’ purpose.

Frankincense: A gift for the body can be a shirt, shoes, perfume or something exercise related.
Myrrh: A gift for the spirit might be a Bible, devotional, worship music, or might I suggest Adventures in Odyssey (disclosure, I was a producer for Adventures in Odyssey.)
Gold: A gift of luxury. What’s the one thing your child wants; a doll, Legos, a dinosaur, a movie. This is the gift that fulfills their greatest want.

St. Nicking: A fun event to do with a group of families on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, or by your family alone. First ask your church or a local shelter to find a family in need this Christmas. Be sure to ask the church or shelter for the names and ages of each family member. If possible find out clothing sizes (shirts, pants, shoes, etc), any specific interests (books, princesses, cars, penguins), and specific needs (winter hats, school shoes, Bible, or water heater.) Next invite everyone to your house for a St. Nicholas party. Assign one member from the family in need to each participating family. Next read the story of St. Nicholas aloud. We recommend The Legend of St. Nicholas: A Story of Christmas Giving. With family members assigned, a list of suggested items in hand, everyone heads out to shop. We suggest 1 to 1 ½ hours for shopping. When everyone arrives back the wrapping party begins. It’s a Christmas party too, so have everyone bring cookies to share. Now it’s time to deliver the gifts. The key to a successful St. Nicking is the anonymity of it just like St. Nick. We want our kids to understand that these gifts are given without receiving credit. That brings me to an important point, if you have the address of the family send one car to deliver the gifts to the front door. The key is to not be seen, so ring the door bell and leave before they answer. If you do not have the address, ask the church or shelter to deliver the presents to the family without revealing your identity.

Advent Calendar Ideas:

Decorate for Christmas
Make a Christmas craft
Open a new Christmas book
Have a sleepover with friends
Go on a hot cocoa date
Hang Christmas lights outside
Make and deliver cookies to the local fire or police department
Bell ringing for the Salvation Army
Visit Santa
Have a family fun night. Eat at a restaurant or go play at an activity park
Host or attend St. Nicking event
Go watch the Nutcracker
Enjoy ice skating outdoors
Christmas shopping for siblings
Go see Christmas lights
Christmas parade
Watch a new Christmas movie
Receive a Christmas activity book
Bake Christmas cookies
Make Christmas ornaments
Present wrapping party
Have a fancy dinner at home with your kids
Build a Gingerbread house
Open new Christmas Pajamas
Bake a birthday cake for Jesus (Christmas Day)

From my family to yours Merry Christmas and we hope you’ll enjoy trying out these new ideas this season. Whether you do them all or just one, the key is to remember to focus your kids on the real meaning for Christmas; the birth of Jesus. We’d love to hear if you’ve incorporated any of your ideas into this Christmas season.

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Today is Talk Like a Pirate Day

9/19/2021

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Ahoy, here be some Pirate lingo fur ye ta use on ye 'Talk Like a Pirate' day with ye wee buckos.

Ahoy - A pirate greeting, like "Hello!"
Arrr, Arrgh, Yarr, Gar - A pirate terms that can be used in sorts of situations
Avast - A command to stop and be alert.
Aye - Pirate for “Yes"
Aye aye - A pirate’s acknowledgment of the Captain’s orders
Belay - A pirate may use this in regards to preventing someone from doing something
Booty – A pirates plunder; treasure or other valuable items
Bucko - Pirate for friend

I'll Crush Ye Barnacles - A pirate threat to a foe or fellow pirate
Jolly Roger - Most recognizeable symbol of the pirates; a skull and crossbones
Lad - What a pirate might call a young person
Maroon - When pirates leave someone on an island or desert coast
Matey - Pirate for companion or close friend
Savvy - Pirate for, "Do you understand?"
Shiver me timbers - What a pirate says when caught byu surprise
Walk the plank - A pirate punishment for their enemies, or a traitor
Weigh anchor - Pirate for, “Let’s go.”
Yo-ho-ho - A happy pirate expression

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The Ultimate Family Guide to Colorado Springs: Our Favorite Restaurants & Attractions

🥞 Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs

🏞️ Top Family Attractions in Colorado Springs

Final Thoughts: Faith, Family, and Fun

Back to School for the Eastmans

Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop: 52 Fizztastically Fun Experiments and Devotions for Families

Dr. Fizzlbop's Fizzy Heart Experiment

Edge of the Galaxy: 30 Faith-Filled Adventures

A Family Christmas Refocused

By Brock Eastman
Article first appeared on Tyndale's Parenting Blog in December 2015

Today is Talk Like a Pirate Day

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The Ultimate Family Guide to Colorado Springs: Our Favorite Restaurants & Attractions

🥞 Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs

🏞️ Top Family Attractions in Colorado Springs

Final Thoughts: Faith, Family, and Fun

Back to School for the Eastmans

Faith and Science with Dr. Fizzlebop: 52 Fizztastically Fun Experiments and Devotions for Families

Dr. Fizzlbop's Fizzy Heart Experiment

Edge of the Galaxy: 30 Faith-Filled Adventures

A Family Christmas Refocused

​By Brock EastmanArticle first appeared on Tyndale's Parenting Blog in December 2015

Today is Talk Like a Pirate Day

Follow me

Join Phoenix eNews

Share a Joke.

Archives

Categories

By Brock Eastman
Article first appeared on Tyndale's Parenting Blog in December 2015