Old Colorado City Historical Society

Colorado Springs, United States Of America

Old Colorado City Historical Society: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Colorado Springs Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Old Colorado City, situated on the west side of Colorado Springs, is a living testament to Colorado’s dynamic frontier history and evolving urban culture. Established in 1859 as the first permanent settlement in the Pikes Peak region, the district quickly became a crucial supply and industrial hub during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush and later thrived as a center for railroads, glass works, and gold ore processing. Its reputation for saloons and spirited nightlife stood in stark contrast to the neighboring, more restrained Colorado Springs. Today, visitors are greeted by preserved 19th-century architecture, unique shops, eclectic dining, and a calendar brimming with cultural events.

Central to the district’s preservation is the Old Colorado City Historical Society (OCCHS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding and sharing the area’s history. Housed in a historic 1899 building, the OCCHS History Center features engaging exhibits, guided tours, and research opportunities, offering insights into the lives of early settlers, miners, and indigenous peoples. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, genealogist, or casual visitor, Old Colorado City promises an immersive experience, complemented by nearby attractions such as Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.

This comprehensive guide provides essential details for planning your visit, including updated hours, ticket information, accessibility, event highlights, and recommended tours. Discover signature festivals like Territory Days, explore must-see landmarks, and learn how to support ongoing preservation efforts. For the latest updates and deeper insight, visit the Old Colorado City Historical Society’s official website and additional resources (VisitCOS, Shop Old Colorado City).

Introduction
Historical Background of Old Colorado City
Visitor Information
Guided Tours and Special Events
Photogenic Landmarks and Photo Spots
Nearby Attractions
Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities
Exhibits and Interpretive Programs
Research Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Tips
Summary and Call to Action
References

Historical Background of Old Colorado City

Founding and Early Development (1859–1870s)

Old Colorado City’s origins date to 1859, founded by Melancthon Beach, Rufus Cable, Anthony Bott, and George Bute at the eastern entrance to Ute Pass, a critical gateway to the Rockies (Old Colorado City History Center). Initially named El Dorado, it was soon renamed Colorado City, becoming the first permanent town in the Pikes Peak region and predating Colorado Springs by over a decade.

Its strategic location at the base of Pikes Peak made it a vital supply hub for gold rush miners, drawing farmers, ranchers, freighters, and outfitters to serve the booming mining community (Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum).

Economic Growth and Industrialization

By the 1880s, Old Colorado City transformed from a frontier supply camp into a bustling commercial and industrial center. The Colorado Midland Railroad’s arrival in 1886 established new headquarters and repair yards, bolstering the city’s role as a transport and logistics hub.

A year later, the opening of a glass works operation by Adolph Busch and partners expanded local industry, producing bottles for mineral water and spirits and employing skilled Bohemian glass blowers. At the turn of the century, Colorado City became a regional beer bottling center, thanks in part to breweries owned by Mayor Charles Stockbridge (Old Colorado City History Center). The discovery of gold in Cripple Creek in 1891 further fueled prosperity, with four ore mills processing gold and attracting new businesses and residents (Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum).

While Colorado Springs enforced prohibition, Colorado City became known for its 21 saloons in four blocks, brothels, and gambling halls, cultivating a lively “Wild West” atmosphere (Lonely Planet). Despite its rowdy reputation, the community invested in schools, churches, and civic improvement. The arrival of a Carnegie library and the later prohibition of liquor sales in 1914 reflected ongoing efforts to reform and uplift the city (Old Colorado City History Center).

Annexation and Transformation

In 1917, Colorado City was annexed by Colorado Springs, ending its independence and marking its transition into a historic district within the growing city (Old Colorado City History Center).

Cultural Legacy and Preservation

Today, Old Colorado City is celebrated for its preserved architecture, vibrant shops and restaurants, and active community. The OCCHS, operating from a historic 1899 building, maintains extensive collections and offers research opportunities for historians and genealogists, playing a key role in preserving and sharing the district’s rich heritage (Colorado Encyclopedia).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Shops and Restaurants: Typically open daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; some stay open later on weekends. Check individual listings for seasonal variations.
Old Colorado City Historical Society Museum:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

For the most current hours, visit the OCCHS website.

Tickets and Admission

District Access: Free; no tickets required to stroll through Old Colorado City.
Museum Admission: Free, though donations are appreciated. Special programs and private tours may require advance registration or a small fee (OCCHS Visitor Info).

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Accessibility: The museum and many venues are wheelchair accessible. Contact OCCHS in advance for specific needs.
Parking: Free and metered street parking plus several public lots.
Transportation: Served by Colorado Springs Transit bus routes. The district is pedestrian-friendly—wear comfortable shoes and prepare for variable weather.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Walking Tours: Explore the area’s history, architecture, and culture with volunteer-led tours. Private group tours, including Fairview Cemetery walks, are available for groups of ten or more (OCCHS Events).
Self-Guided Options: Download the free Walking Tour app for a self-paced experience (Hashtag Colorado Life).

Signature Events

Territory Days: Memorial Day weekend festival featuring reenactments, music, artisan booths, and gold panning (VisitCOS, Shop Old Colorado City).
First Friday ArtWalk: Monthly late-night gallery walk celebrating local artists (VisitCOS).
Annual Historical Festival: Living history, music, and food celebrating the city’s heritage (Museums Database).
Fairview Cemetery Crawl: Volunteers portray historic figures, sharing their stories in an immersive setting (OCCHS Events).
Seasonal Festivals: Mad Hatter Saturday, Pumpkins in the Park, Christmas Stroll, and more (Shop Old Colorado City).

Photogenic Landmarks and Photo Spots

Old Colorado City Historical Society Museum: Historic 1899 building.
Carnegie Library: Architectural gem.
Main Street: Vintage storefronts and public art.
Bancroft Park: Central gathering place.
Historic Churches and Notable Buildings: Featured on walking tours.

Share your photos using #OldColoradoCityHistoryCenter and #ColoradoSpringsHistoricalSites.

Nearby Attractions

Pikes Peak: Iconic mountain offering hiking, scenic drives, and spectacular views.
Garden of the Gods: Striking red rock formations and trails.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Regional history exhibits.
Manitou Springs Historic District: Quaint town with mineral springs and shops.

Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer: Help with museum operations, event planning, collections care, or administration (OCCHS Membership).
Educational Outreach: Tailored programs for schools and groups.
Partnerships: Collaborates with the Pikes Peak History Coalition and local museums (OCCHS About).
Private Events: Rent the History Center for weddings, meetings, and special occasions (OCCHS Events).

Exhibits and Interpretive Programs

Permanent Exhibits: Explore the city’s founding, gold rush era, and urban evolution.
Rotating Exhibits: Highlight Civil War history, schools, women’s contributions, and more (Uncover Colorado).
Guided Walking Tours: Volunteer-led, with interpretive signage and brochures.
Lecture Series: Monthly talks by historians and community leaders.
Workshops: Hands-on activities for all ages.

Research Opportunities

Archival Collections: Over 2,000 artifacts, 5,000+ photographs, manuscripts, letters, business records, maps, and blueprints (Pikes Peak Library District Digital Collections).
Reference Library: City directories, books, magazines, and news clippings.
Access: Open during museum hours; contact OCCHS in advance for research appointments (OCCHS Official Website).
Collaborative Resources: Access expanded archives via History Colorado’s Stephen H. Hart Research Center (History Colorado Archives).

Planning Tips

Check the OCCHS Website: For current hours, exhibits, and event updates (OCCHS).
Engage with Staff and Volunteers: They are eager to share local stories and offer tours.
Support the Society: Through donations, memberships, or purchases in the gift shop.
Combine Experiences: Explore shops, restaurants, and nearby attractions for a full day out.
Respect the Collections: Follow museum guidelines for artifact handling and photography.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum and shop hours?
A: The History Center is open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM. Shops typically open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general admission is free; donations are encouraged. Some special events may require a fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both volunteer-led and self-guided tours are offered. Group tours are available by appointment.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Free and metered parking is available throughout the district.

Q: How can I volunteer?
A: Reach out via the OCCHS website or inquire in person.

Summary and Call to Action

Old Colorado City presents an exceptional blend of frontier history, cultural vibrancy, and community engagement, making it an essential destination in Colorado Springs. The district’s story—from gold rush origins to historic preservation—is brought to life through the OCCHS’s robust collections, educational programs, and engaging events. Visitors enjoy free museum admission, guided tours, and annual festivals that celebrate the area’s unique legacy.

For the best experience, plan ahead by consulting the OCCHS website for up-to-date information. Download the Audiala app for interactive walking tours and the latest visitor tips. Support the Historical Society through donations or membership to help preserve this beloved landmark for future generations.

Explore Old Colorado City—where history lives and community thrives (OCCHS Events, Shop Old Colorado City).

References

Old Colorado City History Center. (n.d.). Exploring Old Colorado City: History, Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions. (OCCHS)
Old Colorado City Historical Society (OCCHS). (n.d.). Official Website. (OCCHS)
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. (n.d.). Brief History of Colorado Springs. (Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum)
Lonely Planet. (n.d.). Old Colorado City Historic District. (Lonely Planet)
Colorado Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Old Colorado City. (Colorado Encyclopedia)
Pikes Peak Library District Digital Collections. (n.d.). Historic Photographs. (Pikes Peak Library District Digital Collections)
Uncover Colorado. (n.d.). Old Colorado City History Center. (Uncover Colorado)
VisitCOS. (n.d.). Old Colorado City Events. (VisitCOS)
Shop Old Colorado City. (n.d.). Upcoming Events. (Shop Old Colorado City)
Museums Database. (n.d.). Old Colorado City Historical Festival. (Museums Database)
Historic Preservation Alliance of Colorado Springs (HPACS). (n.d.). (HPACS)
History Colorado Archives. (n.d.). Stephen H. Hart Research Center. (History Colorado Archives)
Hashtag Colorado Life. (n.d.). Old Colorado City. (Hashtag Colorado Life)