Manitou Springs Colorado is a bustling little town located 4 miles west of Colorado Springs. Although this community is located in the foothills of the Front Range, the feel here is distinctively that of a mountain town.
Manitou is situated between the
Garden of the Gods and
Pikes Peak, America's most famous mountain. "Manitou," a Native American word for "spirit", describes this beautiful mountain community. There are 9 named mineral water springs throughout town that are fed by the snows of Pikes Peak. The Ute, Cheyenne and many other natives considered this area sacred.
Manitou Springs is a popular tourist destination, so amenities are a mixed bag. There is plenty of shopping and great restaurants along Manitou Avenue, but locals often have to contend with tourist traffic, especially during the busy summer months. Manitou is also the starting point to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the Manitou Incline, Briarhurst Manor, Miramont Castle, top of Pikes Peak, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, and the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.
This area is also very popular for community festivals. Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon, Emma Crawford Coffin Races, Commonwheel Arts Festival, and a whole host of food, beer, and craft festivals can be found year-round. Historic Manitou Springs
is also a great place to catch a free concert, listen to some live music, stroll through art galleries attend some special events, and even enjoy the hot springs at Sunwater Spa.
Hiking the Manitou Springs Incline is one of the best things to do in the area. Starting at the base of Pikes Peak the incline is a grueling 2,000 vertical feet of elevation in one mile. Due to its popularity, you must reserve days using the incline reservation system and park at the iron springs chateau parking, or take one of the free shuttles from one of the designated lots in the Manitou Springs area.
Students who live in this area attend the Manitou Springs School District #14 which has an elementary, middle, and high school and is located in the zip code 80829.
People choose to live in Manitou for a multitude of reasons but because of its proximity to the mountains and its eclectic feel, this is a favorite area for locals and visitors alike. The area is one of the most unique in the Pikes Peak Region and it is a perfect place to enjoy a popular fun attractions and healing waters without leaving Colorado Springs.
Similar neighborhoods include:
Old Colorado City,
Downtown Colorado Springs, and
West.
