Nestled at the foot of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is an atmospheric resort town west of Colorado Springs. The Native American Ute Indians knew about the healing qualities of the area’s mineral springs well before the town was founded as a health resort in 1872. Centred around the Manitou Springs Historic District, the town is known for its beautifully preserved buildings.
Things to do in Manitou Springs
You can learn about the people and events that have shaped the town at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, which houses local artwork and memorabilia, such as old high school photos. It lies on the edge of Memorial Park with its antique locomotive and historic spring. Wander through the sculpture garden, relax in the gazebo or coincide your visit with a performance in the amphitheatre.
North of the downtown area is the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a series of reconstructed Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings that date back to the 12th century. Archaeological findings such as tools, pottery and weapons are on display in the adjacent museum while informative signboards are posted throughout the dwellings. Don’t miss the gift shop with its unique collection of wares.
Completely different is the Miramont Castle Museum, a late-19th-century chateau listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It blends an eclectic range of architectural styles and includes Byzantine, Tudor and Victorian elements. In addition to touring the chateau’s more than 40 period-furnished rooms, the site features beautifully landscaped gardens and a tea room.
Getting around Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is around 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of Colorado Springs and 25 minutes from Colorado Springs Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Regular buses connect to Manitou Springs and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.