Downtown Cripple Creek near Colorado Springs, CO

When you say Colorado to most people, the first thought likely to enter their heads is skiing. There is no doubt about it, Colorado sure does have some wonderful skiing opportunities, but when you visit the Colorado Springs, you really have to spend some time in Downtown Cripple Creek to really experience life in this wonderful state. History lovers and those who like the atmosphere of small towns won't want to miss this charming historic district. The people of this small town have worked hard to make their Cripple Creek Historic District entertaining and educational. Their efforts were rewarded when in 1961; the area was given National Historic Landmark status. This former gold mine campsite has certainly come a long way over the years.

Of course, you can see examples of Cripple Creek's beginning everywhere you look, but a trip to the new Pikes Peak Heritage Center will really put it in prospective for you. This highly technologically advanced center is free of cost and focuses on teaching visitors about local history through huge TV screens featuring documentaries about the gold rush and how life changed from those turbulent times. In Downtown Cripple Creek, you can also indulge in some fine arts entertainment by attending a production at the Butte Opera House, now home to the Thin Air Theatre Company. When it's time for some exercise, don't forget about the various walking trails and nature parks in the area. All in all, Downtown Cripple Creek offers a lot of incredible experiences in one small section of town.