The Pikes Peak region and the Colorado Springs area has much to offer with varied residential neighborhoods, beautiful scenery and plenty to do for those with or without an active lifestyle. Nearly all areas offer something distinctive; where you end up simply depends on what you are looking for. The area boasts neighborhoods varying from open landscapes, neighborhoods set in the foothills, a vibrant downtown residential area, areas with small lots to acreage; the Colorado Springs and surrounding area offers much to choose from.
The central part of Colorado Springs includes a vibrant downtown which boasts a small "city" feel for those who enjoy walking or biking to unique restaurants and shops, while enjoying breathtaking mountain views. Many live and work right within the downtown area, where residents are also able to walk or bike to work. There are many outdoor activities within reach including two nearby parks. The Santa Fe Trail also resides just west of downtown, and can also be accessed from north and south of town. Downtown is home to the National Olympic Committee as well as museums, theater, and Colorado College.
If an older neighborhood with large homes is more your style, there is the Old Broadmoor area. Here you will find the city's zoo, which is up Cheyenne Mountain and has sprawling scenic views of the city. Also close to this neighborhood is the tourist attraction of Seven Falls, a beautiful hiking park set amidst the forest. In this well established and sought after area, you will find the Old Broadmoor Hotel, a five star hotel, which houses first class restaurants, shops, and a scenic golf course. People from all over the country stay at this luxurious hotel for vacations, weddings, and special events. Many conferences are held here as well.
For those seeking an open landscape with easy access to a plethora of shops, restaurants and movie theaters, the Powers area may be just the place. Here you will find newer neighborhoods and establishments built in the past ten years. There is also a large, first class movie theater surrounded by chain restaurants and larger stores.
The West area has an abundance of trees and wildlife, yet is still close to shops and restaurants. Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs are two neighborhoods which boast a small-town charm set in the foothills of Pikes Peak; the uniqueness of the shops and restaurants here make it a popular tourist destination. Both are close to such attractions as the Manitou Cliff Dwellings and Cave of the Winds. Hwy 24 is just to the west and will take you to many of the wonderful ski towns Colorado is known for.
The Northwest is home to the Air Force Academy, with its miles of open space as a backdrop to some of the neighborhoods in this area. Residents here enjoy seeing the flight of the T-birds before each football game and are close enough to enjoy fireworks on July 4th. Since the neighborhoods here are close to the foothills, you will find many trees and gently rolling hills. Residents have become accustomed to visiting deer and an occasional bear or bobcat. Even with all of this wildlife in your backyard, shops and restaurants are still close at hand, as well as easy access to other parts of the city and beyond.
Many young families prefer the Briargate area, with its award-winning schools and family feel. Here you will find moderate sized lots in neighborhoods close to schools with abundant trails. There are newer fitness facilities where the kids can join in their choice of sport while parents attend workout classes. Many family friendly restaurants reside here with a newer movie theater and shops.
Just by visiting, one can see that the neighborhoods of the Colorado Springs area is very diverse. Colorado Springs has continually been rated highly for being a great place to raise a family, has been voted as one of the fittest cities, and is one of six cities that can boast the best value. The area has great schools to choose from, limitless outdoor activities, entertainment, and sporting events; all with a backdrop of the beautiful Pikes Peak mountain range. Colorado Springs is also close to some of the top ski resorts in the country. It's no wonder its residents include people from all over the country; that says a lot.