Building a Welcoming Destination

At Visit Colorado Springs, we believe that travel is a powerful force for connection, understanding and community. As stewards of our destination’s vibrant culture, rich history and warm hospitality, we remain steadfast in our commitment to building a welcoming destination.

• Inclusion & Belonging: We work toward creating a destination where all people feel welcomed, respected, supported, valued, heard and safe.
• Diversity: We celebrate our differences that make us unique, everything from our experiences and backgrounds to ways of thinking and history that enriches our community.
• Equity: We strive to ensure every person has access to the same experiences, which includes making proper modifications and accommodations for those with disabilities.
• Accessibility: We collaborate with our partners and community organizations to expand resources, infrastructure, itineraries and programs for people with disabilities of all kinds.

Our dedication to building a welcoming destination for all is reflected in our partnerships, policies and the way we tell the story of our region. We are actively collaborating with local businesses, cultural organizations and community leaders to create accessible, inclusive spaces and experiences for all. From highlighting diverse voices on our channels to advocating for equitable opportunities in the hospitality industry, we are committed to fostering a city that represents everyone.

Our promise is to remain transparent in our efforts, open to continued learning and dedicated to cultivating a true sense of community, inclusion and belonging. Under the guidance of both our IDEA Committee and Accessibility Task Force, our organization will remain steadfast in our continuous learning and growth. We invite all partners and community members to join our mission to ensure the Pikes Peak Region is a welcoming destination where together, we can all thrive.

About the IDEA Committee
The Inclusion & Belonging, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee at Visit Colorado Springs comprises industry and community members and is lead by members of the VCOS team plus a VCOS Board representative. The committee meets quarterly to discuss progress toward IDEA goals and provide training and guidance to the VCOS staff.

About the Accessibility Task Force
The Accessibility Task Force was formed in 2022 to discuss the findings of a study conducted by MMGY and the Spinal Association that highlighted the main pain points of travelers with mobility disabilities. Now, the Accessibility Task Force is composed of industry leaders and accessibility experts throughout the community, and VCOS acts as the convener to drive and assist in meaningful change in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region.

Please note – our effort to improve inclusion & belonging, diversity, equity and accessibility within our organization and the destination is a work in progress. We will make updates and adjustments as we gather information, learn and listen. If you have any suggestions or thoughts you would like to share with Visit COS, please send them to Social@VisitCOS.com.

Inclusive practices breed impact. Our support of community events like Juneteenth, Pikes Peak Pride Fest, Veterans Day Parade and Fiestas Patrias have helped them grow, which in turn has brought larger attendee turnouts and more overnight stays that boost the local economy. Our partnership with accessible travel company Wheel the World has allowed us to tap into the market of travelers with disabilities and show them how much they can experience in the Pikes Peak Region.

Quick Facts

• In 2024, Pikes Peak Pride Fest brought in around 40,000 attendees, including many overnight visitors.
• More than a quarter (27%) of visitors to the Pikes Peak Region had a member of their travel party with accessibility needs in 2024.
• The Juneteenth Festival in Colorado Springs is only 5 years old and now sees around 30,000 attendees over the 3-day event, drawing more overnight visitors each year.