Old Colorado City Colorado

The town of Old Colorado City is a national historic district neatly tucked into the Colorado Springs area just outside of Manitou Springs. The original town existed from 1859 to 1917 as a supply hub for the South Park and Blue River gold mines of the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. It was a prosperous town for the first couple of years, as well as the county seat of El Paso County. However, when the newly constructed roads diverted the traffic away from the area, Colorado Springs became the county seat and Denver became the new territorial capital in 1862, Colorado City faltered. It took 30 years before the town saw another big boom. At that time, gold ore was being processed at the Golden Cycle Mill and the Cripple Creek and Victor mines were calling on Colorado City for supplies. Then in 1903, Colorado City had it’s own gold strike to boost the local economy. Colorado City was incorporated into Colorado Springs in 1917.

More Town Facts

The town of “Old Colorado City” is not to be confused with the present day unincorporated town in Pueblo County with the name Colorado City. The modern day historic district is entertaining with mining history and interesting stories of the last century. There are many shops, restaurants, museums and places to visit in this two-mile area. Just outside of the Old town you will find many things to do including Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls, Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the Flying W Ranch. Make this little town part of your next visit to the Manitou Springs area.

 Old Colorado City Local Attractions

• Old Colorado City History Center – located at 1 South 24th Street in Colorado Springs, CO. Open Tue-Sat 10am-4pm  -  Admission is free
• Cave of the Winds – Cave of the Winds, is a wonder that can be explored by people young and old, a hidden jewel within the Colorado Natural Attractions located in Manitou Springs, Colorado. Come find geology and adventure rolled into one — a  Geo-Venture! This spectacular Colorado Natural Attraction has amazed people for over a century.
• Seven Falls – Seven Falls is a wonder to see, the only waterfall in Colorado that is listed in the National Geographic list of International waterfalls. It’s situated in a natural box canyon of rock formations and cliffs all around. Follow a small stream past the Pillar of Hercules and you will reach the pink granite cliffs and the impressive Seven Falls. If you want the best view, the Eagle’s Nest Observation platform is the place to be.
• Garden of the Gods – Manitou Springs Colorado is the home of the famous Garden of the Gods attraction. This wonderful nature center is in its 101st year of operation and offers visitors dramatic views of 300 ft. sandstone rock formations within the spectacular Pikes Peak region. The park is a registered National Natural Landmark and is one of the most visited attractions in the region. “The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is FREE and your gateway to Garden of the Gods Park.
• Pikes Peak Cog Railway – The Manitou and Pikes Peak  Railway is, the highest rack (Cog) railway in the world as well as the highest railway in North America and the Northern Hemisphere. The M&PP Railway also has a perfect safety record!
• Flying W Ranch – Chuck wagon suppers and great family entertainment wait for you at the Flying W Ranch. Come see the Western stage show and enjoy a delicious barbecue in a uniquely Old West environment. If you want to see the Old West come alive – come see the Flying W Ranch!

Old Colorado City Photo Gallery

Getting to Old Colorado City

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