One of the things we love most about living in Colorado is how much variety we have right in our backyard—plains, mountains, foothills… take your pick. There’s always somewhere new (or familiar) to explore.
One of our favorite spots? Manitou Springs, just west of Colorado Springs. It’s a quick, easy drive—just over an hour from home—and always worth the trip.
This past year, we visited the Cliff Dwellings and Museum, and invited some good friends to tag along. We had the best time! The kids were all in—climbing, exploring, soaking it all up. We had actually visited the year before with a school group, which was fun in a totally different way, but this time felt more relaxed and personal. Everyone loved it both times!
While we were in town, we also checked out one of the natural spring fountains. Cold, fizzy, and definitely a unique experience! It’s one of those quirky little things that makes Manitou Springs special—and a must-visit on our Colorado adventure list.
The Cliff Dwellings are just minutes away from downtown Manitou Springs. Manitou Springs is located in the foothills of the great Rocky Mountains, it is just a little way away from Pikes Peak! Did you know that Katharine Lee Bates wrote America the Beautiful while she attended Colorado College in Colorado Springs? It is believed that she wrote several lines after visiting the top of Pikes Peak!
The Cliff Dwellings were home to the Anasazi people at one time. Read more about them HERE.
While at the Cliff Dwellings, the kids had an opportunity to grind corn the way the native people would have. I explained that they would have needed a large of amount of corn in their everyday life. The boys could not believe how hard people had to work for just one simple staple.
The actual dwellings are laid out really well to keep you flowing right along. They also have signs along the way to give you the history you are looking for.
There is a fantastic overlook complete with the super-fun, quarter-per-view binocular machine things. 🙂
Kids love looking through those!
Inside there is a awesome gift shop and a museum display area. Lots to learn! Self-paced too, just the way we like it!
Outside, there is also a huge teepee! The kids love this part!
After we left we headed to the main square and playground in Manitou Springs. They have a few natural spring water fountains in town and we went to Seven Spring Park:
We brought along some kool-aid mix and lemonade mix, I think Oliver’s face says it all:
Although, I liked it, it’s just like flavored sparkling water. The kids loved the park and playground, we ate some good food and headed back to Denver. What a fantastic day with friends! We love Colorado!