15 Colorado Springs Landmarks for Your Bucket List

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Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a city known for its rich history, incredible natural beauty, and many cultural attractions. Founded by William Jackson Palmer in 1871, Colorado Springs boasts numerous historical sites, monuments, and points of interest that will appeal to almost everyone.

If you're planning a trip to the beautiful city, check out this list of 15 Colorado Springs landmarks that have to be on your itinerary.

• 15 Colorado Springs landmarks

15 Landmarks in Colorado Springs

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark and one of the most iconic sights in Colorado and the US in general. In addition to the spectacular scenery of the ancient rock formations, the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center provides informative exhibits and guided tours so you can make the most of your time there.

While the park is fantastic all year, the best time to visit Colorado Springs to go to Garden of the Gods is during the fall as this is when the leaves are changing. Ideally, plan a trip for late September or early October to get beautiful views of red, orange, and yellow foliage.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Cheyenne Mountain State Park features breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a wide range of outdoor activities. You can get back to nature with over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails.

This park is a must-visit for adventurers who want to explore the natural beauty of the Pikes Peak region. Notably, Cheyenne Mountain State Park is an excellent place to visit during the fall in Colorado Springs as the attraction erupts into color due to the changing of the leaves.

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Housed in a beautifully restored 1903 courthouse, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum showcases the city's rich history and cultural heritage. You can enjoy exhibits displaying Native American artifacts as well as pioneer-era antiques.

In addition, you can learn more about the legacy of Colorado Springs founder William Jackson Palmer. The museum and the Renaissance and Italianate building it's housed in were even added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

Located in Downtown Colorado Springs, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is a cultural hub offering world-class art, theater, and educational programs. The art collection found here features American, Latin American, and Native American art, making it one of the premier Colorado Springs attractions that has to be on your must-visit list!

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Glen Eyrie Castle

Built by Colorado Springs founder William Jackson Palmer, Glen Eyrie Castle is a stunning example of English Tudor-style architecture. The castle offers guided tours and is one of many Colorado Springs historical sites that you can't miss visiting. You could even stay the night at the property as part of it has been converted into a charming boutique hotel.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park

North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a popular day getaway location for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The 148-acre park has a variety of trails, picnic areas, and vantage points. You can even see waterfalls like Helen Hunt Falls. If you want a quick escape from the city, it's one of the top Colorado Springs attractions to head to!

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Penrose Heritage Museum

Penrose Heritage Museum highlights the legacy of Spencer and Julie Penrose, who played a significant role in the region's development. The museum is also home to an extensive collection of carriages, early automobiles, and other antiques and artifacts that were owned by the couple.

National Museum of World War II Aviation

Another fascinating and educational landmark in Colorado Springs is the National Museum of World War II Aviation. As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to WWII aircraft and aviation history.

It was established in 2008 and is located at Colorado Springs Airport. Notably, you can see many restored aircraft during a visit, including a Stinson V-77 Reliant and Lockheed P-38 Lightning.

Pikes Peak Highway

The Pikes Peak Highway scenic drive is a stunning journey up to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most famous mountains. The 19-mile toll road is lined with numerous overlooks, allowing you to stop during your drive to take in the fantastic scenery.

This area is so breathtaking that a fun Colorado fact relating to the Pikes Peak Highway is that it inspired the song "America the Beautiful."

Manitou Incline

The Manitou Incline is a hiking trail that ascends a steep mountainside. It's located on the edge of Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs, about 20 minutes from Downtown Colorado Springs.

While the hike is a little challenging, you're rewarded with amazing views of Manitou Springs and the surrounding area. As the elevation gain is more than 2,000 feet in less than a mile, it's a favorite of fitness enthusiasts and those who like a challenge!

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Aside from the striking red rock formations, which should be enough to warrant your visit, Red Rock Canyon Open Space boasts miles and trails and various outdoor recreational opportunities.

Plus, the 1,474-acre attraction is located just a short drive from Old Colorado City. It's an ideal destination if you want to hike, rock climb, or view wildlife.

Western Museum of Mining and Industry

Located just north of Downtown Colorado Springs, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry offers an array of information on the region's mining history. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and view artifacts like antique machinery.

Kids can even pan for gold at this fascinating Colorado Springs historical site! If you find the exhibits entertaining, consider also taking a drive to historic Cripple Creek, Colorado, an old gold-mining town with similar attractions.

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Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

You can experience what life was like for early settlers of the Pikes Peak region by visiting Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site. This family-friendly landmark, constructed in 1875, has become one of the most popular and entertaining historical sites in Colorado Springs.

At the living history museum, costumed interpreters and hands-on activities will transport you back in time.

World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame

The World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame is one of the only places in the United States you can extensively celebrate the sport's history and achievements. With a vast collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits, this Colorado landmark is a must-see if you're a figure skating fan visiting Colorado Springs.

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US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center

That's right; Colorado Springs is home to the flagship training center for US Olympians and Paralympians! You can get a glimpse into the lives of these elite athletes by visiting the state-of-the-art US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center. You can even take a guided tour to learn about the center's history and some of the famous athletes who have trained here.

In Conclusion

Colorado Springs is a city that offers countless attractions and is home to some of the best landmarks in Colorado, like Cheyenne Mountain State Park and the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site. With so many points of interest in Colorado Springs to visit, this scenic destination has something for everyone.

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