Joshua Fagan
Google
A deeply beloved place, and rightfully so, considering the mix of history and rugged natural beauty that it offers to both children and adults. Though a native of Colorado Springs, I had not visited here in a while, perhaps not since I was a small child, and I was quite impressed by how accessible the historic sites are. In the summer, there are living history demonstrations that showcase with exquisite detail and much eagerness certain periods from early Colorado history. These demonstrations are a large part of what draw visitors here, but the area is still extremely charming to walk around even off-season. Many of the monoliths of Garden of the Gods are visible from here, with significantly fewer crowds. When the sun shines brightly on the meadow and the wind rasps softly through the high grass, the buildings look absolutely enchanting. There is an array of farm animals here that will please children, and anecdotally, I heard a line of children chanting "an-i-mals" as they were walking toward the sheep. I personally adored the old masonry walls still present and ruined form and thoughtfully restored, as well as the example of a beautiful Spanish revival style Edwardian estate. There's something for everyone here, and I was fortunate enough to come when they were setting up for the 4th of July, and everywhere was festooned with patriotic banners.
