Colorado

One of Colorado Ski Destinations

Crisp cool mountain air, warmed by the sun, the aroma of spiced apple cider in the air, strolling from one unique shop to another, checking out the art galleries and hand crafted shops – this is Manitou Springs, Colorado or it could be a dozen other towns in Colorado.  Fall in the Rocky Mountains is sunny, cool and dry so that the air feels wonderfully refreshing.

       A land of breathtaking scenery, known for winter sports, especially skiing, Colorado is a state with many other places to see and things to do.  Aspen, Vail and Steamboat Springs are all well known and loved, but along with skiing, almost any outdoor activity can be enjoyed here.  In addition to the wonderful winter sports areas, the summer season offers hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, fishing, and mountain climbing.  National and State Parks are throughout the state with a wide variety of facilities to make your outdoor adventure a reality.    http://www.parks.state.co.us/ for the state park website and http://www.nps.gov/state/co/ for the National Park website. 

Pike's Peak

The cog railway trip to the top of Pike’s Peak has some really spectacular views.  The aspen leaves were yellow when I went and were scattered among the other trees as we made our way to the top.  No matter what time of year, it can be very cold at the top and the wind can be quite sharp on the lookout deck.  What a view from there!

My daughter lived in Colorado Springs for a few years and also took us to see Cripple Creek – an old mining town with a colorful history.  You can stroll down the main street or try your hand at panning for gold, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants or see the items in the many shops.   Since my trip there, Cripple Creek has expanded to become more of a tourist destination with the addition of casinos and other attractions.  They have their own website at http://www.visitcripplecreek.com/ and feature special events all year so check them out if you are going to be in Colorado.

Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel

The Air Force Academy and The Olympic Training Center are also in Colorado Springs.  One of the places I enjoyed most in Colorado Springs is the  Von Briggle Pottery Factory and Showroom.  Check out the website for Colorado Springs to locate more great places to visit at:   http://www.visitcos.com/  

Vintage RPPC of the Red Rocks Amphitheater

Denver is the capitol city of Colorado and has a most impressive Capitol Building with a golden dome.  When I was about eight, my parents took my brother and I to see the Capitol and we were allowed to climb up into the dome.   Denver boasts a number of museums, a zoo and an arboretum, a mile long pedestrian mall, breweries, professional sports teams and many great restaurants and hotels.  The Red Rocks Amphitheater is shown at the left in an old black and white real photo postcard.

Garden of the Gods

Colorado has a long history and the places to go to experience this history.  There are Dinosaur sites and museums; Native American archeological sites such as Mesa Verde; Gold, Copper and Silver mining operations and some surviving or restored boom towns to tell that history; factory or mine tours plus modern museums of art and culture.  For the entire variety to choose from, visit Colorado at  http://www.colorado.com/ on the internet.  

As always, I suggest you check the state website for an overall view that is more comprehensive than my insights to each state.  Some of the cities also have their own website.