Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012 - (Page 16)

16 ITINERARIES the Winds shares the geology and ecology of this subterranean Rocky Mountain natural wonder with visitors through three distinctive tours: the Discovery Tour, Lantern Tour and Flashlight Tour. The Cave of the Winds also has a new attraction, the Wind Walker Challenge Course. It's a cross between a zipline, a jungle gym, a maze and a ropes course, and is suitable for people of all ages and varying skill levels. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are authentic Anasazi cliff dwellings, which were built more than 700 years ago by a somewhat mysterious Native American culture that lived in the Four Corners area (consisting of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona) from 1200 B.C. to 1300 A.D. The word Anasazi literally means “ancient ones,” and Anasazi are now sometimes termed Ancestral Puebloans. The intricately constructed cliff dwellings tell of an ancient civilization and lifestyle, which you are free to explore, touch and climb through. The gift shop on site offers replicas of Anasazi artifacts, Native American jewelry, pottery, rugs, crafts, books and videos. Bring your appetite for your next stop at the Miramont Castle Museum and the Queen's Parlour Tea Room. This 14,000-square-foot, 42-room Victorian-era castle was constructed in 1895. It was commissioned by Fr. Francolon, a French emigrant and Catholic priest who moved to Manitou Springs in 1892 to serve as a missionary priest. Francolon only lived in the Castle until 1900, when he unexpectedly returned to France. The fascinating and uncharacteristic history of this extraordinary building continues to reveal itself as historians and preservationists discover more. Authentic Victorian furnishings and various temporary collections are on display, like the Manitou Springs Fire Department exhibit with artifacts from the 1800s. A relaxed exploration of Manitou Springs historic district, shops, parks and restaurants will take the balance of the day. This artist's enclave features award-winning creekside restaurants, time-honored galleries and shops, and frequent festivals and events. VisitCOS.com Time your visit to coincide with a free concert at the town's central Soda Springs Park, or take the kids fishing at Schryver Park, a shady oasis with an indoor pool, picnic area and stocked pond. It seems only fitting to conclude your day with a walking tour of the hallowed natural mineral springs that dot Manitou Springs. The effervescence in the spring water was considered to be the breath of the Great Spirit “Manitou” by the Cheyenne, Mountain Ute and Arapaho Native American tribes who spent peaceful winters here many years ago. Eleven springs have been maintained or restored to their original splendor, thanks to local preservation efforts. A brochure with a map to each spring is free, and so is the refreshing water at each. Western Town. Native American dance performances celebrate the indigenous Plains Indian residents of the area, with a local family troupe performing the Hoop Dance, Friendship Dance and more as predinner entertainment. The Chuckwagon Supper, a simple, impeccable menu that hasn't changed significantly since the Flying W began serving it to guests in 1953, is next. After dinner, the Flying W Wranglers, a wildly talented band of five musicians and singers, will entertain with hilarious G-rated banter and flawlessly rendered traditional cowboy music. Plan to hear favorites in the tradition of Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and Sons of the Pioneers, with numbers like “Cool Clear Water,” “Orange Blossom Special” and “Rocky Top” on their extensive playlist. Day 7: More Manitou Plan to spend your final day touring the attractions in Manitou Springs: the Cave of the Winds, Manitou Cliff Dwellings and Miramont Castle are all located here. The Cave of the Winds is your first stop today, for a tour of its 500-million-yearold world of underground geology. The limestone in which Cave of the Winds was formed dates back almost 500 million years, and the cave's system of rooms and passages began to form four to seven million years ago. Stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone were created within the rooms and passageways due to the effects of dripping calcium carbonaterich water over thousands of years. Now, the Cave of Day 8: Inspirational City Tour Start your day with patriotic flair at the United States Air Force Academy to see the Visitors Center, Cadet Chapel, Falcon Stadium and various aircraft exhibits. You can enter between the hours of 9am and 6pm through the North Entrance (I-25 exit 156B) after showing ID and a quick security check. During the school year, make a point to watch from the Honor Court wall or Cadet Chapel as the cadet wing marches to lunch at noon. Next, visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum in downtown Colorado Springs to learn about the brave and industrious individuals who shaped the Pikes Peak region. Entrance into the museum is free, though donations are welcome. Permanent and rotating exhibits bring our rich history to life. After lunch at one of our great downtown eateries, head over to the U.S. Olympic Training Center. Tours start hourly and are free. After a short, inspirational movie, you’ll tour the facility where Olympic champions and hopefuls train for the next Olympic games. The Spirit Store gift shop has clothing, books and other items to show your Olympic spirit. Complete your day with a visit to America the Beautiful Park, a wonderful gathering place with a playground, picnic tables, walking trails and areas for quiet reflection. The focal point of the park is the large, rotating water sculpture, Continuum. LEFT: Cave of the Winds RIGHT: Manitou Cliff Dwellings http://www.VisitCOS.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012

Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012
Contents
What's New?
Get on the Radar
Regional Map/Index
Regional Itineraries
Live it Up!
Attractions Grid
SOUTHWEST
USA Pro Cycling Challenge
Pikes Peak Region Climate
Faster, Higher, Stronger
Historic Hotels
SOUTHEAST & DOWNTOWN
Are You Inclined?
Events with Altitude
Off the Beaten Path
Helen Hunt Jackson
NORTHWEST
High Altitude Tips
NORTHEAST
55 Attractions in 5 Days
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
Over the River
Distinctive Destinations
Services
Money-Saving Coupons
Listing & Advertiser Directory
Money-Saving Coupons
Drive Time Chart

Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012

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