History of Colorado Springs, Colorado

Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs has long drawn people with its dramatic natural beauty, healing climate, and pioneering spirit. From its Native American roots to its emergence as a resort town, military hub, and innovation center, the city’s story is one of transformation and aspiration.

Indigenous and Early Explorers

For centuries, the area was home to Indigenous peoples including the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne. Pikes Peak was a sacred site to many, offering spiritual significance and panoramic views. In the early 1800s, Spanish and American explorers passed through the region, and in 1806, Zebulon Pike famously attempted—but failed—to climb the mountain that would bear his name.

Founding and Resort Era

Colorado Springs was officially founded in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, a Civil War hero and railroad magnate. Palmer envisioned a “city of the future,” free from saloons and filled with culture, clean air, and scenic grandeur. He marketed the city as a resort destination, and its reputation quickly grew.

The arrival of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad made the area accessible to Easterners seeking health cures, especially for tuberculosis, which was thought to be relieved by the region’s dry climate and mountain air. Elegant hotels, mineral spas, and the Victorian charm of nearby Manitou Springs turned the region into a health and wellness mecca.

Military Growth and Economic Expansion

The 20th century brought a new identity. With the onset of World War II and the Cold War, Colorado Springs became a major military and aerospace hub. Fort Carson was established in 1942, followed by Peterson Air Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the iconic NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), built into nearby Cheyenne Mountain in the 1960s.

In 1954, the U.S. Air Force Academy chose Colorado Springs as its permanent home, cementing the city’s reputation as a defense and technology center.

A Modern, Mountain-Front City

Today, Colorado Springs blends its Old West past with modern innovation. It has become a vibrant city known for outdoor recreation, Olympic sports, military history, and start-up energy. With stunning views of Pikes Peak, access to national parks, and a growing economy, Colorado Springs continues to attract adventurers, families, and visionaries.

Top 25 Attractions in Colorado Springs, Colorado

1. Garden of the Gods
A breathtaking public park featuring towering red sandstone formations, hiking trails, rock climbing, and a world-class visitor center.

2. Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain
Drive, bike, or ride the historic Cog Railway to the 14,115-foot summit that inspired “America the Beautiful.”

3. U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
A state-of-the-art interactive museum celebrating the history, triumphs, and training of Team USA athletes.

4. The Broadmoor Hotel
A five-star historic resort offering luxury, fine dining, golf, and scenic lakefront beauty at the base of the mountains.

5. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
America’s only mountain zoo, featuring giraffe feeding, sky rides, and animal exhibits with sweeping city views.

6. Seven Falls
A dramatic series of cascading waterfalls nestled in a narrow canyon, accessible by hiking or a scenic elevator ride.

7. The U.S. Air Force Academy
Tour the visitor center and the striking Cadet Chapel (under renovation), and explore the grounds of this prestigious military institution.

8. Old Colorado City
Once a Wild West town, this historic district now offers charming shops, restaurants, and galleries on tree-lined streets.

9. Manitou Springs
A quirky neighboring town with mineral springs, art shops, arcades, and the famous Manitou Incline trail.

10. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Explore dramatic caves, adventure rides, and cliffside views in this family-friendly geological attraction.

11. Red Rock Canyon Open Space
A favorite among locals for hiking, biking, and climbing amid red rock formations and scenic trails.

12. North Cheyenne Cañon Park
A rugged natural escape with waterfalls, picnic areas, and trails like the popular St. Mary’s Falls hike.

13. Penrose Heritage Museum
Showcasing the legacy of Spencer and Julie Penrose, this museum includes historic carriages and early race cars.

14. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Located in a restored 1903 courthouse, this museum tells the story of the city’s founding and diverse heritage.

15. Palmer Park
An in-town gem offering hiking, horseback riding, and dramatic overlooks of the city and mountains.

16. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Step back in time with costumed interpreters showing 1800s ranching and pioneer life beside Garden of the Gods.

17. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
A well-preserved park for camping, hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying unobstructed views of the Front Range.

18. ProRodeo Hall of Fame
Celebrate the history and legends of the American rodeo, with exhibits on famous cowboys and rodeo gear.

19. Peterson Air & Space Museum
Located on Peterson Space Force Base, this free museum showcases aviation history and military aircraft.

20. America the Beautiful Park
A riverside green space with modern art installations, a splash pad, and views of downtown and Pikes Peak.

21. The Incline at Manitou Springs
A challenging 2,700-step ascent that climbs over 2,000 vertical feet—an intense workout with epic views.

22. Western Museum of Mining and Industry
Hands-on exhibits, working steam engines, and historic mining gear tell the story of Colorado’s mineral boom.

23. Downtown Colorado Springs
Filled with murals, shops, breweries, historic architecture, and a growing culinary scene.

24. Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center
Located at the entrance to North Cheyenne Cañon, offering exhibits and educational programs for nature lovers.

25. Memorial Park and Prospect Lake
A popular gathering place with trails, a lake for paddleboarding, playgrounds, and events like Labor Day Lift Off (balloon festival).

Conclusion

Colorado Springs is a city that defies easy categorization. It’s at once a rugged frontier town, a bastion of military strength, a haven for Olympians, and a destination for nature lovers and wellness seekers alike. Whether you’re scaling the slopes of Pikes Peak, wandering among red rock formations, or immersing yourself in history and culture, Colorado Springs offers a high-altitude adventure with deep roots and boundless energy. A gateway to the Rocky Mountains and a celebration of the American spirit, it’s a place where every view tells a story—and every visit inspires a return.