Colorado Springs, CO, is a city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, offering residents a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. With its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant community, living in Colorado Springs means experiencing a rich tapestry of culture and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Colorado Springs, looking at houses in the city, or have been a longtime resident, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Colorado Springs you’ll want to know.
1. The city’s altitude will (literally) take your breath away
Colorado Springs is located at an elevation of 6,035 feet, making it one of the highest cities in the United States. For some perspective, Denver, which is famously known as the Mile High City, is about 800 feet closer to sea level. Visitors often find themselves out of breath due to the thin air, but the stunning mountain views make it all worth it.
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Despite its name, Garden of the Gods, a Colorado Springs landmark, is not actually a garden at all. It’s a public park filled with stunning red rock formations that were created millions of years ago. The park offers hiking, rock climbing, as well as guided tours to learn about the area and take in the breathtaking views.
3. Colorado Springs is home to the United States Air Force Academy
Colorado Springs is home to the prestigious United States Air Force Academy, where future officers are trained and educated. The campus is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.
4. The city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts
With its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are just a few of the activities that draw adventure seekers to the area.
5. It’s a mecca for Olympic athletes
Colorado Springs is home to the United States Olympic Training Center, where athletes from around the country come to train and prepare for the Olympic Games. Visitors can take guided tours of the facility and learn about the rigorous training regimens of the athletes. With the 2024 Summer Olympics right around the corner, the USOTC is definitely busy as Team USA gets ready to go for gold.
6. The city is a hotbed for UFO sightings
Here’s an out-of-this-world fact about Colorado Springs: the city has a long history of reported UFO sightings, leading some to believe that the city may be a hotspot for extraterrestrial activity. According to Axios, there have been over 300 UFO sightings in El Paso County, where Colorado Springs is located, since 2000. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the stories are sure to pique your interest.
7. Colorado Springs is a paradise for beer lovers
Colorado Springs is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries like Phantom Canyon Brewing Company and Colorado Mountain Brewery offering a wide variety of unique and delicious brews. Beer enthusiasts can take brewery tours and sample the local offerings.
8. The city is a magnet for wildlife
Colorado Springs is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and even the occasional bear. Residents and visitors alike are often treated to sightings of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
9. The city has a unique mode of transportation
Colorado Springs is home to the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway, the highest cog railway in the world. The railway takes passengers on a breathtaking nine mile journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, more than 14,000 feet above sea level, offering stunning views along the way.
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Colorado Springs is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and public art installations throughout the city. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, located on the Colorado College campus, is sure to be a hit for anyone with an appreciation for the arts.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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Chibuzo is a Content Marketing Specialist on Redfin’s content marketing team. He’s been with Redfin for over two years and enjoys running and playing basketball when he’s not writing. His dream home is a Mediterranean-style house with a large kitchen and plenty of windows.
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