Colorado Springs Named Among Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Colorado Springs, Colo., one of its 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Colorado Springs, nominated by the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau, was selected for its walkable historic areas, its commitment to sustainability, and its natural attractions and ample recreational opportunities in the nearby Rocky Mountains. From February 15 to March 15, Colorado Springs will be participating in a public online voting contest to select the 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations Fan Favorite.
For 12 years the National Trust for Historic Preservation has annually selected communities across America that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural diversity and a commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place.
“Few vacation destinations provide such an extraordinary range of tourism opportunities in a single location,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “From the vibrant and walkable downtown to the thriving local businesses to the ample recreational opportunities afforded by the nearby Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs retains the distinctive charm that has attracted generations of visitors.”
Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, visitors to Colorado Springs can enjoy commanding views of Pikes Peak from just about any part of town. The multiple recreational opportunities afforded by the nearby mountains include everything from hiking to taking in the breathtaking geological wonders at Garden of the Gods Park, Cave of the Winds and the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
Home to Colorado College and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, the town has a thriving arts and cultural scene–including the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, which interprets the early history of the area. Visitors looking to spend the night in Colorado Springs have several top-notch options available, from the historic Broadmoor Hotel to the Cliff House at nearby Pike’s Peak.
Highlights:
- The Broadmoor Hotel, a member of the Historic Hotels of America program, is the longest running five-star resort in the United States.
- Cliff House, at Pike’s Peak, has been a hotel longer than Colorado has been a state and has hosted such luminaries as Clark Gable, Theodore Roosevelt and Buffalo Bill Cody.
- North End historic district, a charming and highly walkable local historic district located near the campus of Colorado College.
- Nearby highlights include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and the Air Force Academy, where the Cadet Chapel is considered a masterpiece of Modernist architecture.
The public is invited to vote online to help determine which of the 12 destinations will be the 2011 Fan Favorite. From February 15 to March 15, any legal resident of the U.S., 18 years of age or older, can vote once per day for his or her favorite city or town on this year’s list. The winner of the popular vote will be announced on March 16, 2011. Voters are automatically entered to win a complimentary two night stay at any Historic Hotel of America. No purchase necessary. Offer void where prohibited. Visit www.PreservationNation.org/ddd for official rules, information about Historic Hotels of America, to learn more about this year’s destinations, and to begin voting!
To download high resolution images and video of this year’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, visit www.PreservationNation.org/press.
2011 marks the twelfth announcement of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations annual list. To date, there are 144 Distinctive Destinations located in 46 states throughout the country. To see a complete list and to vote for the 2011 Fan Favorite Destination, visit www.PreservationNation.org/ddd. The title of Distinctive Destination is presented to cities and towns that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a strong commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization. In each community, residents have taken forceful action to protect their town’s character and sense of place.
FOLLOW US ON...