Cripple creek/Pikes Peak

Another mountain in the area to drive to the top is mount Evans.
This use to be the tallest paved road in the U. S. until they paved the upper half of pikes peak.

For a lesser known experience, take the Phantom Canyon Road (CR 67) south to Florence. This section of road is the original route of one of the railroads that serviced the mines of the Cripple Creek area. From Florence, continue south on CO 67 to Wetmore and catch CO 96 west. About 10 miles from Wetmore, head south on CO 165 for 12 miles or so to Bishops Castle. Free, the best price. An amazing castle hand built by one man over the course of around 50 years. Your kids will love this place. Search Bishops Castle to see images.

You can return via the same route or extend your day by heading to Royal Gorge. There's a theme park and the bridge on top. Or there's an interesting railroad trip along the river into the gorge below the bridge that starts in Canon City.

Another route back to Cripple Creek is the Shelf Road (CR 9).

Note that both of the county roads are graded gravel roads but I've easily done both in small sedans.

I lived in Woodland Park for 30 years, and worked in Cripple Creek for most of the time. Just left in April for our full time adventure.

Couple thoughts:
If you're concerned about altitude (Cripple Creek is 9,500), consider Woodland Park (8,500) or Colorado Springs (6,000).
Royal Gorge in Canon City is spectacular. Lunch/Dinner train or just visit.
New Olympic museum in Colorado Springs is spectacular.
Air Force Academy is something to see.
Under the radar: Paint Mines (google it), about 30 min west of Colorado Springs.
Victor Gold Mining tour, right next to Cripple Creek.
Florissant Fossil beds.

Have fun. It's beautiful!