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Welcome To KEY TO THE CITY's Page For
Manitou Springs
El Paso County, Colorado
ZipCodes
80829
Motto
At the Foot of Pike's Peak
History & History-related items
Chamber of Commerce.
Organizations, Churches, and Sports.
Here is a map page for the area.
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Climate
mild with low humidity. The coldest months are usually January and February with July being the hottest most years. Chinook winds help warm up winter and spring temperatures as well as melt the snow. Be ready for rapid changes in weather. Even summer months may require a sweater.
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History & History Related Items
Manitou Springs history is linked to the natural springs in and around the city. Aquifers are deep underground with high concentrations of minerals. The carbonic acid in the water is what creates the famous bubbles that makes Manitou Springs unique. The early French missionaries called it the Boiling Fountain because of the carbonation effect. With the 1803 Louisiana Purchase came exploration of the area. Many explorers came and all told of the benefits of the local mineral water. Soon many came to seek healing in the springs. For hundreds of years, the native americans here all partook of the natural springs. Unfortunately, the gold fever brought many new people who inevitably clashed with the tribes. Ultimately, the natives were moved to various reservations. In 1868, William Jackson Palmer was the first to capitalize on the mineral springs. After Colorado Springs was founded, La Font (the fountain) was begun by John Blair, a landscape designer. One of his friends then suggested the name of Manitou from Hiawatha by Longfellow. The name was indeed changed and the first establishment, the Manitou House, was opened in 1872. Over the years, the economy of the area flucuated up and down, but generally was a popular health resort with a number of famous visitors including US Presidents, McKinley, Roosevelt and US Grant.
Some of the information above is from this history page for Manitou Springs. Click on the link to learn much more along with good historical pictures.
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To visit Manitou Springs is like a step back in time. The downtown area looks like an old Victorian district. There are many gift shops and eating establishments here. Trolleys and even horse drawn carriages are abundant. In the summertime, street musicians are seen playing all types of music for your enjoyment. Parks and picnic areas are everywhere. Not only this, you'll be dealing with the friendliest people anywhere.
For more information about Manitou Springs, Colorado, please call: 1-800-642-2567
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
P.O. Box 351
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone: (719) 685-5401 for depot
Email: info@cograilway.com
A three hour, ten minute round trip on this train takes you to the top of Pikes Peak at 14,110 feet! Please call ahead for information and departures. Reservations are strongly recommended!
Cave of the Winds
A Geo Venture
P.O. Box 826
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Phone: 719-685-5444
Several tours are available as well as many other adventures including weddings and special events. Make reservations ahead of your visit so you won't be disappointed if the tours are filled up.
Cliff Dwellings Museum
P.O. Box 272
Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829
Phone: 719-685-5242
Toll-free: 800-354-9971
Authentic Anasazi cliff dwellings, built more than 700 years ago.
Miramont Castle
42 historic rooms to visit as well as Victorian gardens, tea room, gift shop and more. Tours are available.
9 Capitol Hill Ave
Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829
Phone: 719-685-1011
Rock Ledge Ranch
An educational living history farm and museum
Phone: 719-385-6546
See some great pictures of Manitou Springs.
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The number of housing units was:
1990 - 2,524
2000 - 2,654
Median household income:
2000 - $ 40,514
2005 - $ 43,900
Median house value:
2000 - $ 175,300
2005 - $ 227,900
Manitou Springs is located in the Mountain Time Zone and does participate in daylight savings time during a portion of the year.
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