A Distinctive Destination

Colorado Springs is a National Trust for Historic Preservation Dozen Distinctive Destination

The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Colorado Springs, Colo.,one of its Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Colorado Springs was selected for its walkable historic areas, its commitment to sustainability and its natural attractions and ample recreational opportunities in the nearby Rocky Mountains.

For 13 years the National Trust for Historic Preservation has annually selected communities across America that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural persity and a commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place. 

“Few vacation destinations provide such an extraordinary range of tourism opportunities in a single location,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “From the vibrant and walkable downtown to the thriving local businesses to the ample recreational opportunities afforded by the nearby Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs retains the distinctive charm that has attracted generations of visitors.”

Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, visitors to Colorado Springs can enjoy commanding views of Pikes Peak from just about any part of town. The multiple recreational opportunities afforded by the nearby mountains include everything from hiking to taking in the breathtaking geological wonders at Garden of the Gods Park, Cave of the Winds and the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.

Home to Colorado College and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, the town has a thriving arts and cultural scene--including the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, which interprets the early history of the area. Visitors looking to spend the night in Colorado Springs have several top-notch options available, from the historic Broadmoor Hotel to the Cliff House at nearby Pike’s Peak.

Distinctive Highlights:

• The Broadmoor Hotel, a member of the Historic Hotels of America program, is the longest running five-star resort in the United States.
• Cliff House at Pike’s Peak, has been a hotel longer than Colorado has been a state and has hosted such luminaries as Clark Gable, Theodore Roosevelt and Buffalo Bill Cody.  
• North End historic district, a charming and highly walkable local historic district located near the campus of Colorado College.
• Nearby highlights include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and the Air Force Academy, where the Cadet Chapel is considered a masterpiece of Modernist architecture. 

To date, there are 156 Distinctive Destinations located  throughout the country. The title of Distinctive Destination is presented to cities and towns that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural persity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a strong commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization. In each community, residents have taken forceful action to protect their town’s character and sense of place.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation (www.PreservationNation.org) is a non-profit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them. By saving the places where great moments from history – and the important moments of everyday life – took place, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With headquarters in Washington, DC, eight regional and field offices, 29 historic sites, and partner organizations in 50 states, territories, and the District of Columbia, the National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people, organizations and local communities committed to saving places, connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of America’s stories.