Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City, founded in 1859, is located on the west side of Colorado Springs. Boasting a rich and colorful history, it was the first capital of the Territory of Colorado and the center of early settlement in the Pikes Peak region. Designated a National Historic District in 1982, restoration efforts have resulted in a physical and cultural renaissance of the area. Fine old brick structures, quaint alleyways (once known as horse alleys) and territorial charm provide the setting for small thriving shops, boutiques, fine & cultural jewelry, galleries and restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. Lovely bed & breakfast inns and other fine accommodations in the area make Old Colorado City a choice destination site for getaway weekends and extended-stay vacations.

Special events sprinkle the annual calendar, including Territory Days in late May, street dances and concerts throughout the summer, Scarecrow Days in the fall, and a "Rocky Mountain Christmas" with parades, hayrides and beautiful decorations during the holiday season. A farmer's market convenes every Saturday from late spring through November on 24th Street between Colorado and Pikes Peak Avenues.

The Old Colorado History Center, located in the historic district at 24th Street and Pikes Peak Avenue, contains a remarkable collection of artifacts and photographs and a written, oral, and electronic history of the area. It is a model research center, active in recovering the past and aggressive in making it available to the general public as well as to history buffs.

Whether you plan to browse the shops and galleries, enjoy fine dining, visit the History Center or attend a seasonal event, a trip to Old Colorado City will be a richly rewarding experience. Make a day of it, or a romantic getaway; come for the weekend, or make Old Colorado City your home base for roaming all the remarkable sites and scenery of the Pikes Peak Region.