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10 Hidden Attractions in Colorado Springs Even Locals Miss: Experience Colorado Springs’s Best-Kept Secrets

1. Palmer Park

Nestled right in the heart of Colorado Springs, Palmer Park often escapes the attention of even the city’s long-term residents. This sprawling urban park spans over 730 acres, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a mountain biker, or just someone seeking a peaceful escape, Palmer Park has something for everyone.

The park boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to moderately difficult. One of my favorite trails, the Templeton Trail, circles the park and provides breathtaking views of the city and the nearby mountain ranges. The park is also home to geological formations that are truly unique, featuring dramatic rock outcroppings that make for excellent photo opportunities.

Not only does Palmer Park provide an escape from the urban sprawl, but it’s also a sanctuary for wildlife. You might encounter deer, a variety of bird species, and even the occasional coyote during your visit. The park also has multiple picnic areas, playgrounds, and even a dog park, making it an ideal spot for family outings.

Despite its location within city limits, Palmer Park offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Next time you’re in the area, take a moment to explore this hidden gem—you won’t be disappointed.

2. Starsmore Discovery Center

Tucked away in the stunning Cheyenne Canyon is the lesser-known Starsmore Discovery Center. Often overshadowed by the more famous Seven Falls and Helen Hunt Falls in the same area, this small but fascinating center offers engaging exhibits and a wealth of information about the local environment and wildlife.

The center is housed in a historic stone building that exudes an old-world charm. Visitors can explore interactive displays that cover topics such as local flora and fauna, geology, and the history of Cheyenne Canyon. One of the highlights is the bird-watching deck, which provides a prime spot for observing the various bird species that inhabit the canyon.

Beyond the exhibits, the Starsmore Discovery Center offers a range of programs and activities throughout the year. From guided nature walks to educational workshops, there is always something happening that can enhance your appreciation of the natural world. During the warmer months, you can also rent a picnic basket from the center and enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of the canyon.

Starsmore serves as a gateway to several nearby hiking trails, including the Columbine Trail, which offers moderate difficulty and stunning views of the canyon. For those looking to deepen their connection to nature while gaining valuable knowledge, a visit to the Starsmore Discovery Center is a must.

3. The May Natural History Museum

Dubbed the “Bug Museum” by locals, the May Natural History Museum is a hidden oasis for those curious about the world’s insects and arachnids. Located just a short drive from downtown Colorado Springs, this museum houses one of the world’s most extensive insect collections, featuring over 100,000 specimens amassed by its founder, John May.

The museum offers an intimate setting where visitors can get up close and personal with creatures from all corners of the globe. The exhibits range from brilliantly colored butterflies to some of the more bizarre insects like glow-in-the-dark beetles and gigantic tarantulas. Informative plaques accompany each display, offering intriguing facts and stories about the various critters on show.

One of the most engaging aspects of the May Natural History Museum is its focus on education. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share their expertise. They often conduct special tours and educational programs designed to entertain and inform visitors of all ages.

Beyond the main insect exhibits, the museum grounds also feature a charming gift shop offering entomology-themed souvenirs and literature. For entomology enthusiasts and curious minds alike, the May Natural History Museum provides a captivating journey into the hidden world of insects.

4. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, the Garden of the Gods, Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum that offers an immersive experience into Colorado Springs’ past. This 230-acre site showcases multiple eras of the region’s history, from Native American culture to the early 20th century.

The ranch is divided into different historical periods, each represented by carefully restored buildings and costumed interpreters. Visitors can explore a traditional American Indian area, complete with authentic dwellings, storytelling sessions, and craft demonstrations. Moving forward in time, there are structures from the 1860s and 1880s, including a working blacksmith shop and a homestead cabin.

One of my personal highlights of Rock Ledge Ranch is the 1907 Edwardian country estate, a grand building filled with period furniture and artifacts. Guided tours often include demonstrations of early 20th-century domestic activities, like butter churning and candle making. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and bring history to life in a way that traditional museums often cannot.

Seasonal events at Rock Ledge Ranch add another layer of charm. From apple cider pressing in the fall to old-fashioned Fourth of July celebrations, the ranch offers a variety of activities that are both educational and entertaining. For anyone interested in stepping back in time and experiencing life as it was in Colorado Springs over a century ago, Rock Ledge Ranch is an unmissable destination.

5. Ghost Town Museum

For a taste of the Wild West, look no further than the Ghost Town Museum. Situated indoors, this unique attraction captures the essence of a 19th-century Colorado town, complete with authentic artifacts, old-time shops, and interactive exhibits. It offers an exciting glimpse into the area’s gold rush days, making it one of Colorado Springs’s most fascinating hidden gems.

The museum is laid out like a small town, with wooden sidewalks leading you from one carefully curated exhibit to another. You can wander through a general store stocked with period merchandise, visit a blacksmith’s workshop, and even step inside an authentic saloon. Each building and artifact has been painstakingly preserved to offer a genuine historical experience.

One of the standout features of the Ghost Town Museum is its interactive elements. Kids and adults alike can pan for gold, operate an old-fashioned crank phone, or try their hand at running a printing press. The museum also has an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, including wagons and early automobiles, that provide additional context to the story of the American frontier.

Educational films and informative plaques throughout the museum help to provide a deeper understanding of the exhibits. And for those looking to take a piece of the Old West home with them, the museum’s gift shop offers a variety of unique souvenirs. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun outing, the Ghost Town Museum is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

6. North Cheyenne Cañon Park

While places like the Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls tend to steal the limelight, North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers an equally stunning natural experience that is often overlooked. Spanning over 1,600 acres, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and miles of hiking and biking trails.

The park’s most famous trail, the Seven Bridges Trail, takes you on a scenic journey across— you guessed it—seven charming bridges that cross Cheyenne Creek. The moderate hike is perfect for families and offers stunning views of the surrounding canyon. Another notable trail is Mt. Cutler Trail, which offers panoramic views of the canyon, Colorado Springs, and beyond.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park is not just about trails and views; it also has a deep historical and cultural significance. The historic Bruin Inn, built in the early 1900s, now serves as the visitor center. Here, you can learn about the park’s history, geology, and the efforts to preserve its natural beauty. The park is also home to the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center, where you can embark on guided nature walks and participate in educational programs.

Unlike the more crowded tourist spots, North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers a sense of tranquility and seclusion. It’s an ideal location for bird watching, photography, or simply soaking up the natural beauty. For locals and visitors alike, this park offers a hidden slice of Colorado Springs’s breathtaking natural landscape.

7. Manitou Incline

Although the Manitou Incline is gaining popularity, it remains a somewhat hidden gem that even some locals have yet to tackle. Originally built as a cable car track to carry materials to build pipelines, this infamous trail is now one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in the Colorado Springs area.

The Manitou Incline stretches just under a mile up the side of a mountain, but don’t let the short distance fool you— it features a gain of over 2,000 feet in elevation, with an average grade of 45%, and some sections reaching up to 68%. This is not a hike for the faint-hearted, but those who take on the challenge are rewarded with unparalleled views and an unmatched sense of accomplishment.

The trail consists of approximately 2,744 steps, and the terrain is rugged and uneven, adding to the challenge. As grueling as it might be, the sense of camaraderie among fellow hikers is palpable. It’s not uncommon for climbers to encourage each other along the way, creating a unique sense of community and shared endeavor.

For those who make it to the top, the descent can be less demanding, either via the Barr Trail— a more gradual route back down. However, make sure to come prepared: the Manitou Incline requires good physical condition, plenty of water, and a lot of determination. If you’re ready for a challenge and want to experience one of Colorado Springs’s most talked-about yet hidden attractions, the Manitou Incline awaits.

8. Dr. Lester L. Williams Fire Museum

A hidden treasure for history buffs and anyone intrigued by the brave world of firefighting, the Dr. Lester L. Williams Fire Museum is a must-visit. While it may not be as well-known as some of Colorado Springs’s larger attractions, this museum houses an extensive collection of firefighting memorabilia, equipment, and stories that bring the history of firefighting to life.

The museum is situated within a functioning firehouse, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The collection includes vintage fire trucks, hand-pulled fire carts, and an array of helmets, uniforms, and other firefighting gear from different eras. Each artifact is accompanied by detailed descriptions that offer insights into the evolution of firefighting technology and techniques.

One of the museum’s standout features is its impressive collection of antique firefighting equipment, some of which date back to the 1800s. From the elaborately designed fire engines to the early versions of fire hoses and nozzles, the museum provides a unique glimpse into the past.

Beyond the artifacts, the museum also focuses on the personal stories of firefighters, detailing their heroic efforts and daily challenges. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Dr. Lester L. Williams Fire Museum offers a fascinating journey into the world of firefighting that should not be missed.

9. Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun

Perched high on Cheyenne Mountain, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is an often-overlooked gem that provides an incredible view while offering a serene, contemplative experience. Named in honor of the beloved American humorist Will Rogers, who died in a plane crash in 1935, the shrine is part of the broader Cheyenne Mountain Zoo complex but is somewhat hidden compared to its more famous neighbor.

The shrine is a 100-foot tall stone observation tower built in an elegant, simplistic architectural style. It is adorned with intricate murals and plaques detailing the life and career of Will Rogers, as well as the history of its founder, Spencer Penrose— the same person behind the iconic Broadmoor Hotel. Visitors can climb a spiral staircase to the top of the tower, where expansive views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding landscape await.

One of the shrine’s most appealing aspects is its relative tranquility. Unlike the bustling zoo and other tourist hotspots, the Will Rogers Shrine offers a peaceful, reflective environment. The journey to the shrine is equally captivating, as the road winds through the picturesque landscape, providing glimpses of wildlife and panoramic views.

The shrine also features a chapel and a small museum with exhibits about the life of Will Rogers and the history of the shrine’s construction. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a quiet retreat with stunning views, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is a hidden treasure worth exploring.

10. Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Often eclipsed by the nearby Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers a less crowded but equally stunning outdoor experience. This hidden gem is a local favorite for its striking red rock formations, numerous trails, and the quiet sanctuary it provides away from the more touristy spots.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space encompasses over 1,400 acres of scenic beauty, featuring dramatic sandstone formations that date back millions of years. The park boasts an extensive network of trails suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, and even equestrians. Each trail offers its own unique views and experiences, ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging routes for the adventurous spirit.

The park’s geological features are not just visually stunning but also historically significant. You can find old quarries and remnants of the area’s mining history scattered throughout the park. Informative signs along the trails offer insights into the geology and history of the area, making your visit both educational and enjoyable.

One of the park’s standout features is its off-leash dog area, where your furry friends can run free and enjoy the natural beauty alongside you. The park also offers several picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch in nature. For those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Colorado Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is an unmissable destination.

My Thoughts

Exploring these lesser-known attractions in Colorado Springs offers a rewarding experience that extends beyond the usual tourist destinations. Each hidden gem holds its own unique beauty, history, and charm, revealing a different facet of this incredible city. From the challenging ascent of the Manitou Incline to the peaceful respite offered by the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor aiming to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, these hidden attractions provide an enriching way to experience Colorado Springs. Dive into my carefully curated list and let these secrets unfold the next time you find yourself in this beautiful city.

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