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Cash-In on National Travel & Tourism Week

Monday, May 6th, 2013

Tourism is often an unseen and invisible industry. It just so happens to be the third largest industry in the Pikes Peak region behind only military and defense. From waitresses to raft guides and helicopter pilots to cab drivers, tourism employs more than 14,000 people locally. In celebration of National Travel & Tourism Week May 4-12, 2013, the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau along with Pikes Peak Country Attractions Association wants residents to see that tourism pays.

Tourism is such a huge contributor to our local economy generating $42 into our region every second. Tax collections earned from tourism save the average family of five $402 annually city and state taxes. Residents are encouraged to snap a selfie (a photo of themselves) in front of one of these 55 area attractions and activities on Instagram and use the hashtag #tourismpays for a chance to win a big fat $402 grand prize check or VIP passes granting admission into 20 area stops like Cave of the Winds and Iron Springs Melodrama.

It’s easy to forget all the unique and exciting things right here in the City and surrounding region. Whether hiking in Garden of the Gods, walking the halls of an area museum or having some new adventures, grab that photo and let tourism pick up the bill. The contest begins today and will run through 5pm Mountain Time Friday, May 17, 2013.

Rules:

  • Follow @VisitCOS on Instagram
  • Upload a photo of yourself in front of one of these 55 attractions and activities
  • Use the hashtag #TourismPays in your Instagram photo upload
  • Contest runs May 6, 2013 – 5pm Mountain Time May 17, 2013
  • One entry per person
  • One grand-prize winner will receive $402
  • Four prize winners will receive one 2013 Pikes Peak Country Attractions VIP pas

Disclaimer: Subject to full compliance with all terms, conditions and requirements of the contest. CVB and Pikes Peak Country Attractions Association and all affiliated partners reserve all rights to withhold the award of prizes for noncompliance with or any misrepresentation in qualifications or eligibility in its sole discretion. Winner agrees to have likeness used in various CVB promotions.  Expenses to redeem prizes is the sole responsibility of the winner(s). Contest is open only to U.S. residents, 18 years of age or older. This offer is void wherever prohibited and subject to all federal, state and local laws. Entrants, by participating in the Contest agree to waive any and all claims of liability against the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau, previously mentioned partners and any parent, subsidiary and affiliated companies and agencies, representatives and employees from any accident, loss or injury occurring from this promotion or in any way related to the prize or the use or misuse thereof. Winners will be announced by May 22, 2013 and notified by comment on the winning Instagram entry photo. If no response is received within 5 business days, an alternative winner will be selected and the original winner will have no claim upon the prize package or any part therein. Prizes are not redeemable for cash or any other form of payment other than the prizes themselves. Prizes are fully transferrable if CVB is notified ahead of time in writing by the original prize winner.  Also due to the prize value payment, a W-9 must be filled out and submitted for the cash prize winner to claim their monies.

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Pikes Peak Open to Cyclists Year Round in 2013

Tuesday, March 19th, 2013

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, in cooperation with the United States Forest Service, will open the Pikes Peak Highway to unescorted bicyclists year round beginning January 1, 2013.

“After a successful pilot program in September 2012, we are very excited to open the Pikes Peak Highway to cyclists year round,” says Karen Palus, City Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director. “We know avid cyclists from the Pikes Peak Region and around the world will come to experience the challenge and beauty that Pike’s Peak – America’s Mountain has to offer.”

All riders must complete a use agreement and liability waiver available at the Pikes Peak Highway tollgate. Because of the extreme nature of the mountain, children under the age of 18 must be escorted by a parent or legal guardian. Riders need to be aware that there will be vehicular traffic and construction on the Highway and should be prepared for changing weather conditions.

There is no parking near the tollgate so any riders planning to drive to the highway and then bike to the summit are encouraged to park at the Crystal Reservoir Visitors Center parking lot or above. All riders must follow all safety and traffic rules, use regulations and hours of operation.

Participants are required to pay the regular admission fee or use one of the Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain passes. North Slope fees and passes are not eligible for this opportunity.

More information can be found at www.springsgov.com/pikespeak or www.pikespeakcolorado.com.

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Royal Gorge Route Railroad Launches New Locomotive and Private Cab Rides

Thursday, March 7th, 2013

Colorado’s Royal Gorge Route Railroad will open Saturday, March 9 for its first trip of the season through the famed Royal Gorge, according to Steve Kaverman, the Royal Gorge Route’s general manager. The 12:30 p.m. train will be led through the winding 1,000-foot deep canyon by a newer, turbo-charged GP40-2 diesel-electric locomotive, which offers greater fuel economy and efficiencies. For passengers, the biggest boon will be the new locomotive’s ability to accommodate up to two passengers for private cab rides seated right beside the engineer, where they’ll experience a unique view of the Royal Gorge as the train travels to Parkdale.

“Cab rides are one of the most coveted and memorable experiences for train lovers of all ages,” said Kaverman. “This also offers an incredible experience to those who appreciate the scenic beauty of the Royal Gorge – there is no other vantage point in the train quite like the cab.” Prices for cab rides are $150 for one or $250 for two passengers in the same party.

This year, the privately owned Royal Gorge Route also will enhance its first-class lunch and dinner menus, and its wine offerings. “The Royal Gorge Route offers the best dining by rail experience in North America,” said Kaverman. “There are few trains on this side of the Atlantic that do dining to the level we do.” This year’s new first-class lunch and dinner menus bring quinoa to the plate, Colorado-raised chicken and more local, national and international wine offerings and pairings.

The Royal Gorge Route’s dining and drink business has grown exponentially throughout the last several years. “This year, our bookings are up by more than 50% already – and many of our reservations are focused on our first-class dining experience.” Kaverman expects 100,000 guests from around the world to ride the train this year – an increase from last year’s dip in visitation to the region.

The Royal Gorge Route will continue to focus on families and special events this year as well. In addition to its Easter Lunch service on Saturday, March 30 and Mother’s Day Brunch the weekend May 11 & 12, the train will host Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob aboard Colorado’s most historic train the weekend of June 8 & 9. The railroad has also announced a special evening departure on June 14 to accommodate hungry cyclists and friends overnighting in Cañon City during the Ride the Rockies bicycle tour.

For more information, visit RoyalGorgeRoute.com or call 888.724.5748.

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Annual Presidents’ Day Hockey Tournament Skates into Colorado Springs February 15-18, 2013

Monday, February 11th, 2013

The Colorado Springs Amateur Hockey Association (CSAHA) will host the 36th annual Presidents’ Day Hockey Tournament February 15-18, 2013. The tournament is one of the largest and most successful of its kind held in North America.

There will be 87 total teams, two of which are sled hockey teams for paraplegic players, with over 1,300 participants plus their families. Over 60 teams will be staying at local hotels. Some have traveled up to 1,200 miles to play in this Amateur Hockey Association Tournament. Teams are coming from Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Missouri, New Mexico, Tennessee, Texas and Washington as well as Manitoba and British Columbia, Canada. “CSAHA and the Presidents’ Day Tournament Committee are excited that our event is attracting teams from all over North America. We can’t wait to showcase all of the great things Colorado Springs has to offer. We’re looking forward to another outstanding tournament weekend with a lot of high-level competition,” says Tournament Director Niki Pipkins.

This USA Hockey sanctioned tournament is estimated to bring an economic impact of approximately $1.5 million to Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. Games are free to the public and are being held at World Arena Ice Hall, Colorado College’s Honnen Arena, Cadet Ice Arena at the Air Force Academy, Sertich Ice Center and Colorado Sports Center. World Arena Main will act as the tournament’s headquarters.

In addition to the tournament, the Association has teamed up with former professional NHL Colorado Avalanche player Scott Parker and his charity “Parker’s Platoon”. This year, the charity’s mission is to help returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) get trained PTSD dogs to aid with recovery from TBI (Traumatic Brain Injuries). These are the same type of brain injuries that forced Parker to retire from hockey after suffering too many concussions during his career. Additionally, Parker lost teammate Wade Belak last summer and is compelled to help the special needs child he left behind. He is raffling off a 1964 Harley Davidson Panhead that has been completely customized to raise funds for the Belak family.  Raffle tickets are $100 each with only 500 tickets being sold. The winner will be drawn once all 500 have been sold.

For a full schedule of events and more information on CSAHA, visit www.CSAHA.com.

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A Colorado Springs “Suite for Your Sweet” this Valentine’s Day

Wednesday, January 16th, 2013

Roses, chocolate, candy and cupid are everywhere in February. Skip the heart-shaped box of confectionary calories and do something different this Valentine’s Day. Couples can indulge their sweet with a Colorado Springs suite. Escape to the Rocky Mountains and enjoy a “Fired up Romance” or scrumptious “Making Whoopee” package complete with stunning views of Pikes Peak. Don’t forget to grab a smooch under the famed Kissing Camels rock formation in Garden of the Gods Park. View all packages and book now at http://promo.visitcos.com.

 The Mining Exchange “Makin’ Whoopee” Lovers’ Package

What better time to make “whoopee” than the month for lovers? Skip the chocolate-covered strawberries and have fun making authentic Whoopie pies with that special someone. Unwind in a luxurious guest room or suite with 2pm late check-out, bottle of champagne and gourmet Whoopie pie-making kit featuring cake and a trio of delectably sinful fillings. Package starts at $149. Taxes and gratuity not included. Book now.

Quality Inn & Suites “Amori Rose e Suites” Package

The Quality Inn & Suites Garden of the Gods has partnered with La Bella Vita Ristorante Italiano for a special all-inclusive Valentine’s Day package. Relax in a two-room deluxe suite along with dinner for two at nearby La Bella Vita Ristorante Italiano. Dinner includes two complimentary glasses of champagne, a rose and special Valentine menu topped off with Tiramisu for dessert.  Package starts at $149, available February 14-17, 2013. Book now.

America’s Rocky Mountain Lodge “Romance Your Valentine” Package

This rustic lodge is nestled at the base of Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain. Stay February 14-17, 2013 for three or more nights and receive complimentary roses, a bottle of sparkling cider, champagne flutes and delicious handmade chocolate truffles. Subject to availability, must ask for the “Romance your Valentine” package, applies to new bookings only and may not be combined with other specials or discounts. Package starts at $135/night. Book now.

El Colorado Lodge “Fire up the Romance” Package

Originally built in 1926, the Historic El Colorado Lodge is one of Manitou Springs’ oldest continually operating businesses. The interiors of the adobe cabins have been modernized, blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort. Book a romantic suite with fireplace and receive a complimentary basket of firewood to stoke the flames. Nosh on a free appetizer at the Wild Ginger restaurant next door. Package starts at $54, valid February 14-17, 2013. Book now.

Residence Inn North “Suite for Your Sweet” Package

Residence Inn North at the Air Force Academy provides a romantic and relaxing stay for Valentine’s Day weekend, February 14-17, 2013. The package includes a suite, sparkling wine, chocolate, hot breakfast buffet, indoor hot tub and pool as well as an outdoor fire pit. Take advantage of 2pm late check-out. Package starts at $109. Book now.

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“CBS This Morning” to Raft with River Runners Monday 6/30

Friday, July 27th, 2012

River Runners, a rafting company with two locations on the Arkansas River in Colorado, will be featured in a segment about whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge on ‘CBS this Morning’ Monday, July 30, 2012 at 8:00 Mountain Standard Time.

According to Scott Peterson, marketing director at River Runners, CBS picked up on a press release the Colorado rafting company had distributed about thrill rafts. He said longtime news correspondent Bill Whitaker along with the show’s producer and a camera crew went rafting through the Royal Gorge earlier this month.

“They liked the angle of using smaller rafts to provide a more exciting experience at low water and tying that in with the fire recovery in Colorado,” Peterson said. “This is a great opportunity to show a national television audience that our state is not on fire and it’s just as fun and beautiful a destination as ever.”

While taping Whittaker took a quick swim through Sunshine Falls, one of the bigger rapids found in the Royal Gorge according to Travis Hochard, operations manager at River Runners, who was guiding the mini raft.

“My biggest fear leading up to this Royal Gorge rafting trip was for the correspondent to swim,” Hochard explained. “Thankfully we had a quick rescue and Bill was a great sport. He actually seemed to enjoy the excitement of it.”

Hochard said Whittaker and the CBS crew took two rafting trips through the Royal Gorge with no swims the second time down.

“I had a great time meeting Bill and it seemed like he really enjoyed himself,” Hochard explained. “I just hope this feature will help bring people back to Colorado.”

River Runners has offered fully guided whitewater rafting trips on the Arkansas River since 1972. Choose from beginner, intermediate or advanced level whitewater on half day, full day or overnight adventures. Call 877-378-1972 or visit http://www.whitewater.net to book your Colorado rafting trip today.

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Come Help Sing America the Beautiful!

Friday, June 15th, 2012

Pikes Peak Sings, a grassroots project launched by various community individuals and organizations and as an official Pikes Peak Leadership project, was created to leverage the power and sense of community that exists in Colorado Springs around the song America the Beautiful. Members of the community are invited to gather at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum Monday morning to help sing this iconic song.

Filming will take place on Monday, June 18th at 8am on the west side of the building located at 215 South Tejon Street.

This nationally recognized song was penned after Katharine Lee Bates’ visit to the summit of Pikes Peak –America’s Mountain. The words paint a powerful picture of Colorado Springs and the nation. The finished viral video will be unveiled at the Spirit of the Springs Summer celebration on July 28th at Security Service Field.

Follow project updates on Facebook and Twitter. For more information and to view video submission guidelines, go here.

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New Community Project Pays Tribute to America the Beautiful

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Pikes Peak Sings is a grassroots project launched by various community individuals and organizations and is an official Pikes Peak Leadership project. The project was created to leverage the power and sense of community that exists in Colorado Springs around the song America the Beautiful. This nationally recognized song was penned after Katharine Lee Bates’ visit to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. The words paint a powerful picture of Colorado Springs and the nation.

The idea to create a video with community members and organizations singing the song was inspired by the national attention received by the Grand Rapids “Lip Dub” video. City Councilman Tim Leigh led a small group to brainstorm ideas on how America the Beautiful could be used to gain national awareness for the area.

The end result will be a professionally edited video of community members and leaders singing America the Beautiful at iconic locations including the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. Additional videos submitted by the community will be incorporated into the project as well. Entries from targeted groups such as the Air Force Academy, Colorado College and The Broadmoor are being coordinated for inclusion into the final video. The finished version will be unveiled at the Spirit of the Springs Summer celebration on August 14th in America the Beautiful Park.

Those who are interested can participate by following project updates on Facebook and Twitter, singing at the locations listed below, submitting their own video for consideration and attending the Spirit of the Springs celebration in August.

Public Filming Sessions:

June 18,2012 at 8am

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

West Side Entrance

215 South Tejon Street

Colorado Springs, CO, 80903

June 27, 2012 at 8am

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

Upstairs Outdoor Balcony

1805 North 30th Street

Colorado Springs, CO 80904

For more information and to view video submission guidelines, go here.

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New Colorado Lottery Ticket Showcases Colorado’s “Hidden Gems”

Monday, May 14th, 2012

New to the Colorado Lottery this month is a Scratch game called “Hidden Gems of Colorado.” The game was developed by the Colorado Lottery and Colorado Tourism Office to boost awareness of things to see and do across the state. The game was inspired by the Colorado Tourism Office’s official vacation guide, “99 Gorgeous Places in Colorado.” The ticket’s graphic elements and unique prize structure; every prize ends in “9,” comes from the 99 Gorgeous Places theme.

“The game encourages players to get out and enjoy the many recreational opportunities partially funded by Lottery proceeds,” said Abel J. Tapia, director of the Colorado Lottery. “The game ties in nicely with the Lottery’s tagline, “Don’t forget to play,” which reminds people to play the games of the Colorado Lottery, and also to get out and play in Colorado.”

Hidden Gems of Colorado will be a $5 game with a $199,999 top prize and a $9 minimum win (a first for a $5 game). Approximately 1.8 million tickets will be distributed to more than 3,000 Lottery retail outlets throughout Colorado. The game will be on the market through August. Overall odds are 1 in 4.28.

Unique to this ticket is a special Second-Chance drawing that features Colorado vacation getaway packages to some of Colorado’s top destinations. The prize packages were submitted by tourism industry businesses and destinations across the state. Some of the many prize packages include a getaway to the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, overnight accommodations and spa treatments at a Vail Resort, and a Colorado Wine Country excursion. To enter the Second-Chance drawings, players enter their non-winning Hidden Gems tickets online at www.coloradolottery.com. One prize package will be given away each week during the life of the game.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Colorado Lottery in showcasing some of our state’s most special places. There are far more than 99 gorgeous places in Colorado and we invite everyone to go out and discover the treasures that exist right in your backyard,” said Al White, director, Colorado Tourism Office.

Proceeds from the Colorado Lottery’s games – MatchPlay, Mega Millions, Cash 5, Scratch, Lotto and Powerball – stay in Colorado to improve the quality of life in the state. The Lottery has returned more than $2.3 billion to the state of Colorado since it was established. Through Great Outdoors Colorado, the Conservation Trust Fund and Colorado State Parks, the Lottery has provided funding for new trails, precious open space and wildlife protection. For more information, visit www.coloradolottery.com.

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Whoa Mama – Treat Mom to Something Different

Thursday, May 10th, 2012

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park located in Canon City has long honored the matriarch of the family. They have been offering free admission to any Mom on Mother’s day for over 40 years. Walk or drive over one of the world’s highest suspension bridges or build some adrenaline by strapping into the world’s highest Skycoaster. Make sure to hit the world’s steepest incline railway and a great view can be seen from the Aerial Tram. www.royalgorgebridge.com

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain welcomes kids of all ages, bring Mom for a day on the 14,115-foot Peak. Mom will get in free of charge with your paid admission. The view is impeccable from the top (and actually inspired Katharine Lee Bates to pen the words to America the Beautiful after a visit). Of course you must grab a world famous donut at the Summit House. www.pikespeakcolorado.com

Michael Garman Magic Town – The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery will host a BOGO Event for Mother’s Day Weekend—May 12, 13th. As part of their 50th Anniversary celebration, special exhibits and tours are available. Enjoy viewing over 500 sculptures by Michael Garman that honor everyday America heroes from all walks of life. Tour Magic Town, Michael Garman’s 3,000 square foot, one-of-a kind sculptural theater. Bring the kids for a special scavenger hunt complete with popcorn and prizes. Magic Town Admissions—Buy One, Get One Free*, any Sculpture Purchase—Buy One, Get One Free*. www.michaelgarman.com

Dinosaur Resource Center – Hey, Moms love dinosaurs, too, and they especially love spending time with the family doing something fun AND educational. Bring your mom to the Dinosaur Resource Center and she’ll receive FREE admission to the Center with one paid Adult or Child’s admission. Come in early to shop for her, we have beautiful jewelry and unique home accessories with a prehistoric theme. The Dinosaur Resource Center…a whole new species of FUN! www.rmdrc.com

Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center - this special sanctuary located in Divide, CO is treating Mom from 9am-10am on Sunday. Embark on a wolf tour, nosh on some provided snacks and even look into the eyes of these stunning creatures with a wolf ambassador interaction. Reservations are required. www.wolfeducation.org

The Cripple Creek District Museum is giving Mom a break: Give mom a break. All mothers receive complimentary admission to the Cripple Creek District Museum on Sunday, May 13. www.cripple-creek.org

Avenue Hotel Bed & Breakfast’s Wine Cheese & Chocolate Mother’s Day includes, well Wine, Cheese, & Chocolates as well as a 30 minute massage, Bath “Cupcakes.” Morning coffee service to her room will be provided before breakfast, package $195 plus tax, which includes room. Gift certificates are available for later date. www.avenuehotelbandb.com

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