While I can understand the complaints that this place is much busier than it used to be, I was still amazed that something like this exists, let alone that it is open to the public. Even if you just go to enjoy the short hike to the cove, the scenery is beautiful and well worth it. A short walk up the stream will lead to a more desolate area, but the diversity of the visitors added to the appeal to me. I plan on making this a regular part of my summers in Colorado.
This is unlike any other tourist attraction. It was built with stones from the property and truly accentuates the beauty of the mountains and forest surrounding it; however, Jim Bishop was clearly not a trained engineer. The castle blatantly ignores every building code imaginable. The stone structure seems stable enough, but the metal walkways and stairs are questionable at best. With that said, it is still certainly something to see. I was willing to risk my own safety, but cringed when I saw children leaning over edges that should have had railings. The politically-charged messages posted around the property seemed very inappropriate for a place open to families. It is a beautiful building and it is a true testament to the American spirit, but I can't help but feel that it is only a matter of time before something will have to change.
While the bridge is definitely something worth seeing, I would prefer to see it from a raft down in the Arkansas River next time. As others have said, the price is a little too high. I wanted to see the Gorge and the bridge. Instead, I feel like I paid for a subpar amusement park that treated the real attraction as an afterthought.
Start your drive on Gold Camp Road by Bear Creek Park and enjoy the scenic views of Colorado Springs from the mountains. After you drive through a large tunnel carved out of a boulder, Helen Hunt Falls will be at the bottom of the valley. The whole area is wonderful to explore in every season.
An absolute must-see if you are traveling with dogs or live here in the Springs. This dog park is consistently rated as one of the best in the countries. It is about 10 square acres, completely fenced-in with a beautiful creek running through both the general area and the small dog park. With a few hills and wide open spaces, there really is something for every type of dog.
This is by far the most magical concert venue I have ever seen. Every artist I have seen here seems to agree because they all play their hearts out. The acoustics are something beyond what man could design, and the views of the city are unparalleled. Truly a beautiful experience that everyone should try to see at least once.
The chapel's unique architecture compliments this beautiful area known as Black Forest. There is a short paved walk to the chapel from the parking at the visitor's center, and you must enter through the visitor's entrance if you do not have a military ID. I did not get a chance to experience a guided tour, but simply taking in the sites was enough to entertain. Not to mention, it's free!
An amazing store with great toys, kites, and gifts.
I have amazing memories of seeing this performance almost yearly growing up. As an adult, I have even more of an appreciation for the acting and production value of this program. The history of the Lost Colony is extremely interesting but not very well-known, and the well-written play will pull you in. The fact that you are on the very island the story originally played out on only adds to its authenticity and makes it very easy to immerse yourself in the story.
You are almost guaranteed to see alligators in the roadside canal if you look hard enough. Feel free to pull over if there is enough space for pictures, but be careful!