Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is in the central U.S., in the state of Colorado. The ridges of the Rocky Mountains surround the city. That's why it's considered to be the country's recognized winter sports capital. It is also home to the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which was created to combine U.S. and Canadian efforts to protect their air and land space. There are many sights to see in the city and its surroundings. For example, the Garden of the Gods landscape park will attract fans of hiking and biking, rock and mountain climbers. Here you can also admire bizarre rock formations made from sedimentary rock layers. The U.S. Olympic Center will not go unnoticed by sports enthusiasts. Visiting copies of Manitou Cliff Dwellings will interest those who study the life of Native American Indians.
Map Colorado Springs
Brief history
In 1859, a small town called Colorado City was formed. Once, General William Jackson Palmer paid attention to it. He began equipping the resort area here, which in 1871 was renamed to Colorado Springs. Over time, the city was called Little London because of its popularity among British tourists. Palmer used attractive landscapes, nearby mineral springs, and other facilities to attract guests here. He laid wide streets, planted trees, and built luxurious buildings in European style.
In 1885, the Colorado Midland Railway began operating in the city. And in 1889, the railroad transportation to Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific was opened. Between 1880 and 1890, more than 11 thousand people had settled in Colorado Springs, so the city grew by 164%. By this time, the gold rush had reached the Pikes Peak area. Soon after that, it became the largest gold camp in Colorado, attracting tens of thousands of people in the region.
The city's economy revived during the Second World War and the Cold War. In 1941, Ent Air Force Base was established here, and in 1942 — the Peterson Air Force Base. The influx of soldiers and their families dramatically increased the population of the city. With the beginning of the XX century, tourism began to develop rapidly in the city.
Today, Colorado Springs is a beautiful resort, Olympic Training Center, and one of the leading military cities in the country, which annually attracts tourists with its historical heritage and natural beauty.
Trip budget
Before the trip, you should calculate the approximate budget that you will require for the travel:
Hotels | Apartment | Taxi | Gasoline |
Average bill | from 77 $/night | from 105 $/night | Start - 3.35 $, 1km - 1.86 $ | 0.7 $/liter | 45 $ for 2 person |
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The best time to visit Colorado Springs
Winter landscapes of Colorado Springs are no less attractive, but from November to February, the number of tourists in the city is declining rapidly. At this time, the average minimum temperature is about -8°C, and the maximum is +9°C.
If you plan to visit Colorado Springs in spring, it is best to do it in late April or early May. At this time, the thermometer column rises to about +16-21°C.
There are often interesting art festivals and events in the city. One of them is the Balloon Festival, which takes place in September. In autumn (most often in October), here is also held the Month of Art. At this time, you can see the works of talented contemporary creators on the city's streets. People in Colorado Springs also throw bright celebrations of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and Christmas holidays.
What to do in Colorado Springs?
- Find the most picturesque trails and routes to explore the natural beauties. These include the historic Gold Belt boulevard, Pikes Peak Highway, and Skyline Drive.
- Admire the beauty of The Broadmoor Seven Falls. This fascinating cascade can be seen from the observation deck or staircase. There is also an excellent restaurant and walking trails nearby.
- Visit the Western Museum of Mining and Industry. Here you can see thousands of examples of equipment that was used in the XIX and XX centuries. The exposition is devoted to geology, the history of mining, as well as its evolution. On the museum's territory, there are Reynolds' Ranch and a research library.
- Visit Glen Eyrie Castle, built by the founder of Colorado Springs. Everyone who gets to know the city for the first time should see the magnificent building in the English style. The castle's territory is incredibly picturesque, and inside, you can drink tea and take a small tour around the old rooms.
- Wander around the famous natural park Garden of the Gods, located in the suburbs of the city. Here you will find giant red rocks of fanciful forms, ancient cypresses, amazing hiking and biking trails.
- Get closer to wildlife in Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. It is home to many exotic animals. You can even feed some of them! There is also a historical monument on the park's territory, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.
- Pamper yourself with a trip to excellent restaurants where you can taste local and other cuisines. Among them are Caspian Cafe Mediterranean, Urban Egg a daytime eatery, and Mountain Shadows Restaurant.
- Make friends with predators at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. Brave tourists have a unique opportunity to get acquainted with these animals as close as possible, learn about their hierarchy and ways to protect the territory. Visitors to the center can watch wolves, foxes, and coyotes in their natural habitat, take pictures and even let the animal kiss them.
- Make an excursion to one of the city's breweries and taste kraft drinks. The popular places include Nano 108, Peaks N Pines, Trinity Brewing, and Red Leg.
- Climb Pikes Peak and enjoy its stunning scenery. On the way to the top, you can see many beauties, including extraordinary natural areas with three lakes. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the wonders of this area. A shuttle regularly takes tourists to the top.