Here are four of the big highlights to consider adding to your itinerary.
The Broadmoor. Build to be the “Grand Dame of the Rockies,” this luxury resort has been a part of the Colorado Springs community since 1891. Many of the current buildings were constructed in 1918 by Spencer Penrose. A fun activity for day visitors is a cruise around Cheyenne Lake by paddle boat. A half hour voyage on the lake is just $8.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Just west of the Broadmoor is one of only two mountainside zoos in the United States. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is known for their giraffe enclosure. Visitors can get eye to eye with these tall mammals on the specially constructed balcony in their building. After feeding the giraffes, you can head up the mountain and see a wide range of animals including penguins, hippos and monkeys.
U.S. Air Force Academy. Founded in 1954, The U.S. Air Force Academy is open daily to visitors from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Get off I-25 at exit 156B and enter through the North Gate. Once you are on the grounds, head to the Visitors Center to find out about the different parts of the facility. Don’t miss the Cadet Chapel and Falcon Stadium.
U.S. Olympic Training Center. If the recent London Olympics has a member of your family dreaming of gold medals, a visit to the U.S. Olympic Training Center is just the thing to keep the competitive fires burning. Free tours are available at the start of each hour during the fall and winter season. Summer tours (June and July) run every half hour.
Check out www.visitcos.com for more information from the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Do you have a favorite Colorado Springs attraction you always visit when you are in town? We would love to hear your recommendations in the comments.
