Military Attractions in Colorado Springs

The military has a strong presence in the Colorado Springs community. Home to five military installations, the area is a great destination for military reunions and individuals who are interested in military history.  Below are museums and military attractions and restaurants that you can visit to experience the best of Colorado Springs’ military influences. 

United States Air Force Academy

Even if you've never served in the Air Force, you can appreciate a trip to the U.S. Air Force Academy found on the north end of Colorado Springs. Start at the Visitor Center to learn about the everyday life of a cadet and pick up a souvenir from the gift shop. Next, head to the beautiful Cadet Chapel, recently named one of CNN’s most epic churches in America. The unique building, famous for its architectural design, is an all-faiths house of worship designed to meet the spiritual needs of cadets.

For lunch or dinner go to nearby Colorado Mountain Brewery.  Opened by former Air Force service members, this place offers delicious food, great views and hand-crafted beer.

National Museum of World War II Aviation

The National Museum of World War II Aviation is a fantastic new working museum filled with memorabilia that honors those who flew in combat. It is the only museum in the world to focus exclusively on the unique story of the role of aviation in World War II. With your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll also make a trip next door to WestPac Restorations, a premier World War II aircraft restoration facility.  You’ll see people working on the era’s planes and also see their completed projects.  If you’re lucky, you’ll be there when they fire one up for testing.

Currently, the museum is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with tour times starting at 10 AM, Noon and 2 PM lasting approximately two hours.  Reservations are recommended.

Stop into The Airplane Restaurant for lunch or dinner. The Boeing KC-97 is one of the largest piston aircraft ever built by Boeing. It’s also lucky to be around as it was almost abandoned in the Atlantic during one of its many refueling missions to Europe.

Peterson Air & Space Museum

This free hidden gem features an airpark, the Medal of Honor Park, sixteen aircraft and multiple informative exhibits. The museum is open to the public; non-military ID card holders and groups require a base pass. Please call a minimum of 24 hours in advance of your visit (between 9 AM and 4 PM MST) to arrange for a pass and detailed instructions.

Ft. Carson

The 4^th Infantry Division Museum, located just inside Gate 1 at  Fort Carson, is a great place to learn about the history of the 4^th ID and view exhibits and historical artifacts dating all the way back to 1917.

Red Leg Brewing is a Veteran-owned brewery that produces high quality craft beer to honor the men and women who currently and formerly served in The United States Military. Stop in for a tasting, view the memorabilia and enjoy a chat with great company.