7 Reasons to Visit Colorado Springs this Summer

Head to the Springs for an Awesome Vacation Getaway

Wondering what to do in Colorado Springs? Golf aficionados already know about The Broadmoor’s three superlative resort courses, Cheyenne Mountain Resort’s sensational Pete Dye-designed layout, and the Flying Horse’s amazing Tom Weiskopf-crafted 18, but what can travelers experience away from verdant fairways and greens?

Colorado Springs is a gold mine of events, attractions and adventures. Here’s a seven-up sampling:

1. The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb: The Race to the Clouds is the second oldest motor sports race in America, staged on a 12.42 mile course that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot summit. Event includes practice and qualifying sessions, fan fest and more. June 23-29, 2014. www.ppihc.com


2. 74th Annual Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Days: One of America’s premier rodeo competitions and sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the PPOB includes steer wrestling, bareback broncs, tie-down roping, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping and women's barrel racing. July 9-12, 2014. www.pikespeakorbust.org


3. 38th Annual Colorado Balloon Classic: A family-style Labor Day tradition, the CBC has grown to be the largest and longest continuously running hot air balloon festival in the state. Event includes daily mass ascensions, nightly balloon glows, concessions and entertainment. Free. Aug. 30-Sept. 1, 2014. www.balloonclassic.com


4. Garden of the Gods Park: Offering 15 miles of hiking trails and accessible paved paths, this historic and remarkably preserved area is celebrated for its gorgeous views and unique red-rock geological formations. Visited by more than a million guests each year. Free. www.friendsofgardenofthegods.org

Photo: © Chris Duthie

Photo: © Chris Duthie


5. Peterson Air & Space Museum: A phenomenal collection of exhibits featuring 16 vintage aircraft and nine rockets/missiles, plus an airpark that spotlights the North American Aerospace Defense Command and other command centers. Located on an active military installation, which requires access permission. Free. www.petemuseum.org


6. ProRodeo Hall of Fame: Housing five impressive exhibits, this 35-year-old tourist attraction remains the only heritage center in the world devoted to professional rodeo. After viewing a history film, visitors can explore the Heritage Hall displaying both historic and modern cowboy gear, artifacts and clothing. www.prorodeohalloffame.com


7. Miramont Castle: Constructed in 1895 as a private home, the museum is dedicated to preserving the Victorian heritage of historic Manitou Springs. It features hosted events, outdoor gardens, 30 rooms and nine architectural styles ranging from English Tudor to Byzantine. www.miramontcastle.org

For additional information about Colorado Springs, go online to www.visitcos.com.

RELATED LINKS

5 Reasons to Visit Colorado’s Western Slope

Get Hooked on Colorado Fly Fishing

Garden of the Gods Club Gets New Owner

Pikes Peak First Tee Celebrates First Year

Durango resident Chris Duthie is a contributor to Colorado AvidGolfer, the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it. It publishes eight issues annually and proudly delivers daily content via www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.

GET COLORADO GOLF NEWS DIRECTLY TO YOUR INBOX