The Broadmoor Colorado Springs: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction: The Broadmoor’s History and Significance
Nestled at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs stands as an enduring symbol of luxury, architectural splendor, and cultural legacy. Since its grand opening in 1918, this iconic resort has enchanted guests with its Italian Renaissance Revival design, breathtaking mountain views, and world-class amenities. Visionaries Spencer and Julie Penrose developed The Broadmoor to rival Europe’s finest resorts, blending Mediterranean elegance with the rugged magnificence of the Rockies. Over the last century, the resort has evolved into a 5,000-acre destination, offering elegant accommodations, championship golf, a Forbes Five-Star spa, acclaimed dining, and immersive wilderness experiences.
More than a luxurious retreat, The Broadmoor is a cultural anchor for Colorado Springs. It hosts prestigious events, art exhibitions, and historic tours, with its philanthropic legacy evident in landmarks like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Carriage House Museum. Visitors may explore manicured gardens, embark on guided architectural tours, and access nearby wonders such as Seven Falls and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Historic Hotels; EAA Architecture; Go World Travel).
This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and The Broadmoor’s top attractions, helping you make the most of your visit—whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or luxury traveler.
Table of Contents
- Discover The Broadmoor: Colorado Springs’ Iconic Luxury Resort
- Early Foundations and Origins
- The Vision of Spencer and Julie Penrose
- Architectural Evolution and Expansion
- Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Guided Tours and Special Events
- Photographic Spots and Nearby Attractions
- Cultural and Social Significance
- Ownership and Stewardship
- Milestones and Notable Events
- The Broadmoor’s Role in Regional Tourism and Hospitality
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Plan Your Visit to The Broadmoor Today!
Discover The Broadmoor: Colorado Springs’ Iconic Luxury Resort
The Broadmoor is a beacon of elegance and culture in the Rockies, offering guests a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. This guide details everything you need to know, from its historic origins to the best ways to experience its world-renowned amenities and the surrounding region.
Early Foundations and Origins
The Broadmoor’s story began in the late 19th century, when the site was home to the Broadmoor Dairy, established by Willie Wilcox in 1880. Seeking greater investment, Wilcox sold the property in 1885 to Count James M. Pourtales, a Prussian nobleman who envisioned a luxury enclave for Colorado Springs’ elite. Pourtales and his partners formed the Broadmoor Land Company, setting the stage for the area’s transformation into a prestigious resort district (Historic Hotels; Gazette).
The Vision of Spencer and Julie Penrose
A transformative era began in 1916, when mining magnate Spencer Penrose acquired the property. Inspired by the grand hotels of Europe, Penrose and his wife, Julie, set out to create a world-class resort that would elevate Colorado Springs as a destination. Their vision materialized with the hotel’s opening in 1918, a gala attended by dignitaries such as John D. Rockefeller, cementing The Broadmoor’s status as a gathering place for the influential and elite (EAA Architecture; Gazette).
Architectural Evolution and Expansion
The Broadmoor’s original design was the work of Warren and Wetmore, the firm behind New York’s Grand Central Terminal. The hotel features pink stucco facades, red-tiled roofs, and Mediterranean-inspired details that harmonize with the mountain landscape (EAA Architecture). Over the decades, the resort has expanded with additional wings and facilities, including Broadmoor West, Broadmoor South, and the International Center, all carefully designed to maintain architectural unity.
Today, the resort includes 784 rooms and suites, a modern convention facility (Bartolin Hall), and three unique wilderness properties—Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, and Fly Fishing Camp—offering guests a spectrum of experiences from refined luxury to rustic adventure (Broadmoor Timeline; LinkedIn).
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Visiting Hours
- The resort’s public areas are open daily, generally from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Individual venues (restaurants, spa, shops, Carriage House Museum) may have varying hours—check the official Broadmoor website for current details.
Tickets & Reservations
- General access to the hotel grounds is complimentary.
- Activities such as spa treatments, guided tours, golf, and Soaring Adventure zip lines require advance reservations or tickets.
- Book online or by calling (719) 577-5777.
Accessibility
- The Broadmoor provides ADA-compliant accommodations, accessible facilities, and transportation options.
- Notify the resort of any specific needs in advance for personalized service.
Guided Tours and Special Events
The Broadmoor offers guided tours focusing on its history, architecture, and art. Tours are available by reservation and are highly recommended for those interested in the resort’s heritage. Special events throughout the year include:
- Annual holiday displays (featuring the famous gingerbread lobby car)
- Art exhibitions and performances
- Major sporting events, including USGA golf championships and the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb celebrations
Photographic Spots and Nearby Attractions
The resort’s pink facades, manicured gardens, and Cheyenne Mountain backdrop make it a photographer’s dream.
Nearby Attractions:
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: America’s only mountain zoo, founded by the Penroses.
- Seven Falls: A scenic series of waterfalls, accessible by hike or shuttle.
- Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Scenic train rides to the summit of Pikes Peak.
- Penrose Heritage Museum: Preserving the history of Colorado Springs and the Penrose legacy.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Broadmoor has always been a cultural hub, hosting galas, the historic Broadmoor Waltz Club (America’s oldest active waltz club), and a wealth of art, including Maxfield Parrish works and Della Robbia-style tiles (EAA Architecture; Gazette). The resort continues to play a vital role in the region’s social and philanthropic life.
Ownership and Stewardship
Following the Penroses’ passing, The Broadmoor was managed by the El Pomar Foundation before being acquired by The Oklahoma Publishing Company in 1988, and later by The Anschutz Corporation in 2011. Each stewardship phase has focused on maintaining the resort’s legacy, investing in restoration and innovation (Gazette; Forbes).
Milestones and Notable Events
- Maintains Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond status for over 60 years (Broadmoor)
- Hosted major USGA golf championships
- Training ground for Olympic athletes, including Peggy Fleming
- Iconic holiday displays and partnerships, such as the annual gingerbread car and Cadillac collaborations
The Broadmoor’s Role in Regional Tourism and Hospitality
As a cornerstone of Colorado Springs tourism, The Broadmoor draws visitors with its blend of luxury, recreation, and access to regional attractions. Amenities include a Forbes Five-Star spa, championship golf, tennis, pools, and diverse dining. The Broadmoor’s extensive event spaces make it a prime venue for weddings, conferences, and community events, supporting the local economy (LinkedIn; Broadmoor Timeline).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are The Broadmoor’s visiting hours?
A: Public areas are generally open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM; hours for specific venues may vary.
Q: Is there a fee to enter The Broadmoor?
A: General access is free; tickets are required for tours, events, and certain amenities.
Q: Is The Broadmoor ADA-accessible?
A: Yes, the resort offers accessible rooms, facilities, and transportation.
Q: Can non-guests visit The Broadmoor?
A: Yes, visitors are welcome to explore public areas, shops, and restaurants.
Q: What are the top nearby attractions?
A: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Seven Falls, and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway are all close by.
Plan Your Visit to The Broadmoor
To experience The Broadmoor’s blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, plan ahead by booking accommodations, tours, spa treatments, and dining reservations early—especially during peak seasons or major events. Download the Audiala app for exclusive updates and follow The Broadmoor’s social channels for the latest news.
For the most up-to-date information and virtual tours, visit the official Broadmoor website.
Visuals and Internal Links
Visuals:
- The Broadmoor hotel exterior (alt: “The Broadmoor Colorado Springs historic hotel and gardens”)
- East Golf Course with mountain views (alt: “The Broadmoor East Golf Course with Rocky Mountain backdrop”)
- Spa facilities (alt: “The Broadmoor Forbes Five-Star Spa treatment room”)
- Soaring Adventure zip lining (alt: “Zip lining at The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure”)
- Family pool with waterslide (alt: “Family pool at The Broadmoor with waterslide”)
- Seven Falls and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (alt: “Seven Falls near The Broadmoor”)
Internal links:
Connect to articles on Colorado Springs historical sites, luxury resorts, dining guides, and local event calendars to enhance user experience and SEO.
Summary and Final Tips
The Broadmoor is a crown jewel of Colorado Springs, seamlessly blending historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. From its Penrose legacy to its Five-Star hospitality, The Broadmoor offers an experience rich in history, recreation, and culture. With accessible facilities, a vibrant events calendar, and proximity to renowned attractions, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking both adventure and refinement.
For current visiting hours, ticketing, and exclusive offers, consult The Broadmoor’s official resources and consider the Audiala app for the latest updates.
References
- The Broadmoor: A Historic Luxury Resort and Top Colorado Springs Attraction – Visiting Hours, Tickets & More, Historic Hotels
- The Broadmoor: Architectural Masterpiece and Must-Visit Colorado Springs Historical Site with Visitor Info, Western Art & Architecture
- The Broadmoor Colorado Springs: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Historical Sites, Colorado Springs Gazette
- The Broadmoor Colorado Springs: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Top Attractions, Go World Travel
- The Broadmoor Historical Timeline, The Broadmoor Official Website
- The Broadmoor US Senior Open 2025, The Broadmoor Official Website