Colorado Springs, located at the heart of the state, has over the years progressed into something marvelous and unique.
Take a look at its architecture for example. Combined with a quick and diverse rise in population, it has created a unique mix of buildings with overlapping architectural time periods through the entrepreneurial spirit of residents.
So the best things to do with your time in Colorado Springs should revolve around its history. Once wandered by mighty dinosaurs, then formed by Native Americans, westward exploration and expansion, Colorado historical sites, natural wonders, and landmarks are waiting to be uncovered.
Come and enjoy these historical places in Colorado Springs!
1. GARDEN OF THE GODS PARK
Since 1971, the Garden of the Gods Park has been a national natural landmark with public park bikers, hikers, photographers, horseback riders, and spectacular red-rock formations with views of Pikes Peak.
You can pick up a map at the Visitor and Nature Center, then choose a trail that you want to go hiking and to walk. If you’re going to go for a stroll, the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail is a favorite and is also wheelchair or stroller-friendly path. Soak in the view of the towering red sandstone rock formations and an other-worldly setting. You can start your adventure here with a low-key hike or high-intensity training.
2. PIKES PEAK
There are several options when it comes to experiencing the iconic 14,115-foot peak’s soaring heights of Pikes Peak. You can drive there up the highway, although be careful with strong winds throughout the year. Or, you can ride the cog railway. You can also hike up its trails and frame-worthy views from the nearby Garden of the Gods.
When you reach the top, you’ll see the Alpine views stretch out in all directions to encompass reservoirs, summits of shorter peaks, clouds, and especially the Colorado Springs. If you’re lucky and it’s a bright and cloudless day, you might even catch a glimpse of Denver’s skyline , the Sangre de Cristo mountain range in New Mexico, and the Great Plains stretching to Kansas.
There’s a 13-mile trek with a gain of 8,000 feet in elevation that starts in Manitou Springs which is the Barr Trail. Only experienced and well-prepared hikers should attempt the full route to the summit with its length, high altitude, many switchbacks, and unpredictable weather in any season.
3. CAVE OF THE WINDS IN COLORADO SPRINGS
Cave of the Winds was discovered in 1881. This must-see Colorado Springs can give you an exciting adventure by exploring the mysteries of underground caverns. This cave has been thrilling travelers for more than a century and is one of the highest at 7,000 feet.
Cave of the Winds is conveniently located near Pike Peak and Manitou Springs which offers three unique cave tours. There’s the Discovery Tour that offers an easy and fun look at all the coolest cave features; spooky Lantern Tour has ghost stories and folklore, and a Caving 101 Tour that takes you in the undeveloped sections of the caverns. You’ll get to see stalagmites, stalactites, fascinating geological features, and learn cool science facts.
It’s a great Colorado experience for knowing and having fun inside and outside the caves!
4. OLD COLORADO CITY
Old Colorado City was founded in 1859, was the first city of the Territory of Colorado and the center of early town in the Pikes Peak region.
In 1982, the Old Colorado City was appointed as a National Historic District. After the restoration efforts, it has resulted in a physical and cultural renaissance of the area. With its fine old brick structures, quaint alleyways and territorial charm provide a magnificent setting for the tourist and residents. It has small thriving shops, galleries, and restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. Make this place your vacation destination for your getaway weekends and extended staycations.
You can also head to the Old Colorado History Center which is located in the 24th Street and Pikes Peak Avenue. This historic center contains a remarkable collection of artifacts and photographs with a written, oral and electronic history of Old Colorado City.
5. COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM
Located downtown in the splendidly restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum conserves the culture and history of the Pikes Peak region. It features permanent exhibits on the history of the area and changing exhibits on topics of broad interest.
Some of the artifacts in the museum are the nationally significant collections of quilts, the Van Briggle art pottery, and the finest regional landscape art collection in the state of Colorado. Other collections relate to the Native American influences in the region, the founding of the city, the area’s mining and agricultural history.
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a fully accredited by the American Association of Museums, and winner of local and national awards of excellence which offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for people of all ages and interests.
After exploring the historical places in Colorado Springs, you’re probably tired of strolling and hiking. You want to go home and rest, but your house needs a makeover. Hire a professional house cleaning service to help you relax.
