Hubbuzz's Colorado Springs, CO Blogs

Free Things To Do in Colorado Springs in October

elizabeth — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:36:17 -0500

Check out these FREE happenin' things to do in Colorado Springs this October.

Garden of the Gods Scavenger Hunt
Dates: Daily
Time: 9am - 5pm (Visitor's Center)
Location: Garden of the Gods in West Colorado Springs
1805 N 30th St Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Details: Play a little game of 'I spy' while hiking through the beautiful Garden of the Gods. The Scavenger Hunt Guide (download at link below) will keep you on your toes as scan the natural surroundings for elements like Pinon Pine Trees and Scrub Jays. Stop by the visitor center to get information about the park.
More info: Garden of the Gods Scavenger Hunt Guide

Colorado Farm & Art Market
Date: October 8th, 2008
Time: 3pm - 7pm
Location: America the Beautiful Park in Downtown Colorado Springs
126 Cimino Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Details: Enjoy local arts and crafts, music, and fresh food.
More Info: Colorado Farm & Art Market

Annual Cascade Volunteer Fire Department Chili Supper
Date: October 11th, 2008
Time: 4pm - 8pm
Location: Cascade Volunteer Firehouse
10300 Ute Pass Ave, Green Mountain Falls, CO
Event Details: Enjoy free Firehouse chili, a silent auction and raffle.
More info: 719-964-8267

Emma Crawford Coffin Day
Date: October 25th, 2008
Time: 12pm - 3pm
Location: Downtown Manitou Ave in Manitou Springs, CO
Coffin Day Details: Come pay homage to Emma Crawford, who's coffin washed down the mountain and into Manitou Springs, with a day of coffin racing and Emma look-a-likes.
More info: Emma Crawford Coffin Day

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

NewSpace — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:32:17 -0500

If you don't want to see this show because it is "One of the liveliest, funniest, best-performed musicals in years!"(New York Post), then see it because the money helps pay for our grandmother's plastic surgery. Set on the glorious, glamorous Riviera, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a delicious comedy that follows two con artists as they take on the lifestyle of the rich and shameless - and end up with a lot more than they bargain for. Tickets $30-$50 Showtimes 7:30PM on 1/13/09 & 1/14/09

Jesus Christ Superstar

NewSpace — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 11:44:35 -0500

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, the first masterpiece from the legendary writing team of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, exploded onto the scene in 1971 changing the world of musical theatre forever. With a score of amazing songs - “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”, “Hosanna”, “Everything’s Alright”, “What’s the Buzz”, “Superstar”, and “Heaven on Their Mind”, this original groundbreaking production starring Ted Neeley in the title role is as relevant and timeless as ever. Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs November 24, 2008 7:30 PM Tickets $32.50 - $52.50 To Purchase Tickets, Visit: http://newspaceentertainment.com/coloradosprings/jesuschristsuperstar/?utm_source=hubbuzz_COSJCS&utm_medium=Grassroots&utm_campaign=COSJCS Box Office Phone: 719-520-SHOW

Oliver!

NewSpace — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:07:13 -0500

Consider yourself enchanted by Oliver! Hailed as on of the best-loved family musicals of all time, Oliver! brings to stage some of Charles Dickens' most unforgettable characters along with one of Broadway's most memorable scores, Hits such as "Consider Yourself", "Food Glorious Food" and "Where Is Love" surround this heart-warming tale of the young orphan Oliver Twist in this all-new production of Lionel Bart's magical musical. "Oliver is a stunningly beautiful musical"-New York Post Tickets $30 - $50 For tickets, visit: http://newspaceentertainment.com/coloradosprings/oliver/?utm_source=hubbuzz&utm_medium=Grassroots&utm_campaign=COSOliver

Nosh in Downtown Colorado Springs

Nina-Noelle Hall — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:55:53 -0500

Better than tapas, this is Nosh. A sassy small plates restaurant and sangria bar, Nosh is Downtown Colorado Springs' latest hip spot for the in-the-know crowd. Centrally located on Tejon's main drag, but just off the beaten path inside the Plaze of the Rockies building, Nosh functions successfully as the Fine Arts Center Modern gallery, a lunch spot, a happy hour hang out, an elegant dining experience and a vibrant late-night bar. But, as the name suggests, Nosh is known best as an appealing spot to do just that—nosh.

A Yiddish word referring to a snack, the restaurant boasts exceptional dishes designed for sharing. The "Noshers," as these appetizers are cleverly dubbed, include such delicious varieties as chimichurri grilled beef, calamari, house smoked salmon and a slider sampler that features each a lamb, a Kobe beef and a tomato mozzarella slider. There's a long list of these small plates, though, so bring an appetite and a few friends.

Nosh is known also for hosting a variety of creative events, everything from Monday live music to monthly Full Moon Parties to Sunday Pup Pool Parties. One of Colorado Spring's newest venues, Nosh has staged a sweet set up outside, under strung white lights, on its spacious patio. If you don't come for the local music, still come to check out the majestic view of Pikes Peak on a summer's eve. It's a treat no matter how you slice it.

For more information, go to www.nosh121.com
Where: [Plaza of the Rockies, 1st Floor, South Tower?121 South Tejon Street?Colorado Springs, CO 80903?
Phone: 719.635.NOSH or 719.634.NOSH]

Shuga's cafe and bar

Nina-Noelle Hall — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 15:26:32 -0500

A few blocks southwest of Downtown Colorado Springs' neon-lit main drag stands a cozy, white house marked by dark red umbrellas. No matter the season, there are inevitably street bikes leaned on the patio's iron fence or the trunks of Cascade Street's giant, reaching trees or against the older house itself. This is Shuga's—an off-the-beaten-path, ever-so-cool spot in Colorado Springs.

This is where the Springs' artsy, indy crowd often relaxes (hence the street bikes). Besides the excellent espresso, inventive martinis and gourmet tapas, Shuga's cafe and bar attracts its sophisticated crowd precisely because it is away from downtown's stressful G.I.-meets-cowboy brawl of a main street. Instead, Shuga's occupies a renovated house in an otherwise unremarkable part of downtown. And
that is exactly its charm.

Stepping off this quiet section of Cascade and inside, one is greeted by high ceilings that dangle thin strings tasseled by origami swans. The bar is erected against a wall that appears to be part of a 1930's Italian advertisement. Otherwise, walls are adorned with local art, likely from one of the present patrons. Even the tables themselves are pieces of art.

But perhaps more renowned than its atmosphere and art, and more importantly for a cafe and bar, are the food and drink here. The tapas, such as the Auntie Pasta, are delicious and ideal for sharing, perhaps even with that favorite book club or those philosophy friends. If sharing or deep discussions isn't quite your thing, there are tempting entrees and cozy tables for two. The late afternoons feature various happy hours, and the bar stays open with the rest of 'em,
until 2 a.m.

Shuga's is a sweet and sassy treat that helps keep the city in its state of progression. But, do beware—with such artsy sassiness, a sassy wait staff can be expected, too.

The Margarita at Pinecreek fine dining

Nina-Noelle Hall — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:50:27 -0500

In Northwest Colorado Springs, just northwest of I-25 and Woodmen, yellow fields sway, undulate, then escalate to transform into the Rockies. The Platt River (more a creek) navigates the crevices creating ideal obstacles for bounding deer. This beautiful area, known as Woodmen Valley, values big acreage and raw wilderness.

Those familiar with the area might be shaking heads in disbelief. See, the intersection of I-25 and Woodmen Road to which I refer above is an unfortunate result of the 90's development boom: a TGI Friday's nearly overlaps the nearby Hooters, both of which crowd the entrance of an Embassy Suites Hotel. But navigate your way behind the wearisome restaurant chains—it's worth it.

There, on a 4-acre lot of Colorado backwoods, lays The Margarita at Pinecreek restaurant—one of Colorado Springs' finest eateries. The kitchen is renowned, especially for brunch where a reviewer from The Gazette even asserted that "breakfast could cost $100 and I'd still pay it." Fortunately, prices are reasonable averaging between $10 - 15.

All meals utilize only fresh ingredients, which means the menu changes often, almost weekly, to keep up with the season's latest. The choices change often enough that the restaurant only recently started using paper menus, but exclusively for dinner. Otherwise, be patient, the waiter will verbally recount the daily specials.

And they are special! It doesn't seem one can go wrong with any option thanks to the fresh taste of the food—a distinct flavor that seems so rare at restaurants now days. Even The Margarita's margaritas are made from freshly squeezed juices, rather than the standard manufactured sweet 'n' sour.

But perhaps even more remarkable is the ambiance here. White stucco walls form nooks and crannies to host intimate corners for tables and booths. Expansive patios stretch outside under hanging lanterns and reaching pine trees. And the view is breath taking. This is where you'll find those swaying fields and creeping creeks. All that to a backdrop of Pikes Peak and the rolling Rockies.

The Margarita welcomes live music on Saturdays, while Thursdays, outside on the patio, are movie-and-dinner night (summer only, of course). The restaurant grounds also host an art and farmers' market on Saturday mornings, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., during the summer.

The Margarita at Pinecreek
[where: 7350 Pine Creek Rd, Colorado Springs, CO]
719-598-8667

Blodgett Peak Open Space

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:19:03 -0500

Past the suburbs of Rockrimmon and even Peregrine, where Colorado Spring's north end U-Turns back on itself, find Blodgett Peak Open Space. Shooting Douglas firs and Ponderosa pines envelop the inclines of Blodgett Peak creating a striking wilderness. The peak itself towers at an altitude of 9,423 ft., and its embracing forests welcome much of Colorado's animal kingdom, including the graceful Peregrine falcon, which not long ago was listed as endangered.

Blodgett Peak extends a relaxing atmosphere where one can enjoy authentically Colorado's joie de vivre. Among the reaching branches, one can find the nature-induced spirituality to which Walt Whitman might refer. Scrambling the park's mostly maintained trails, one will definitely attain the desired heart rate for fitness goals. And, for the romantics out there, take the time to turn around—this is one of the best lookout spots in the Springs, even just from the base parking lot. Come dusk, the city offers a glittering panorama, while the sky competes with its starry constellations. This lookout point is unique because it is just far enough away from city lights where the eyes can begin to make out the smoky furls of the Milky Way.

But if you're seeking more than a romantic evening, turn back around and start hiking. From the base parking lot, several trails spill forth to ascend the steep mountain. The hike, which covers about 2 – 2 ½ miles, scales approximately 2,400 ft. to reach the peak's summit. It's challenging, but very do-able. From the rocky crags at the top, one can look forward to an even more spectacular view that
incorporates the purple hues of Pikes Peak, the thick forests of the Air Force Academy, the expansive eastern plains and the rolling slopes that tug at the Front Range.

The trails are even surmountable in the winter snows. But beware the summer thunder storms, which, fortunately for one's hiking schedule, are predictable as clockwork: every day around 2 p.m. There is perhaps nothing as hair-raising as the sound of internal thunder… My suggestion: the 2 – 2 ½ hour hike will be most enjoyable in the morning hours before it get too hot or too thunderous.

For more information on the mountain, contact the Forest Service at (719) 636-1602.

Where: about a mile before West Woodmen Rd. turns into Centennial Blvd, find the base parking lot on the west side of Woodmen Rd. This area is behind Mount St. Francis Convent and through the Peregrine neighborhood.

La Bellezza - Bringing Italy to the Rockies

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:14:51 -0500

A couple years ago (2006, to be exact) an out-of-this-world phenomenon took place in northern Colorado Springs. Well, to be accurate, it was actually an out-of-this-country occurrence—Keller Homes constructed and opened La Bellezza villas (said properly with a heavy Italian accent).

And heavy Italian accents are exactly what one would expect among the stucco-and-stone homes.

A small community, La Bellezza roosts where Colorado Springs recedes
to the rolling Rockies. For one's own sanity, it's a wonder the familiar mountain range is in sight, because otherwise La Bellezza feels, looks, certainly sounds, and even smells like Old World Italy.

Here, the pavement of typical suburbia transforms into cobblestone roads and stone archways. Stained sidewalks stop abruptly to follow fountains that gurgle and glide through courting stone walls. Manicured grass suddenly comes upon sticky sage plants and fluffy basil landscaping. Here, northern Colorado Springs welcomes and embraces northern Italy.

The homes are majestic and spacious, but the community finds uniqueness in its details. The houses are adorned with black iron that has been twisted artistically into welcoming gates or decorative flower boxes. Occasionally, a third story features a small balcony that perches just so, as if begging for a reenactment of Rapunzel. Stone, wood and stylized stucco create each house in complementary
hues, while, outside, shooting wheat stalks and lavender stems courtesy in the wind.

The community is as beautiful as it is thoughtful. It was built "green" in accordance to several components outlined in the Built Green Colorado guidelines. Moreover, across the street (West Woodmen Road), rests the green fields, tennis courts, playgrounds and hiking trails of Woodmen Valley Park.

La Bellezza integrates the best of the Old and new worlds into the beauty of Italy and the Rockies. Perfecto!

Kimball's Twin Peak Theater

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:56:05 -0500

Downtown's heart pulses with red, flashing neon lights. No, this isn't the local red light district. Rather, these lights center some of Colorado Springs' most esteemed culture. It's Kimball's Twin Peak Theater, an independent movie theater that handpicks the latest independent and foreign films.

For any readers stifling yawns at the mention of 'independent,' or for those dreading subtitles, I encourage you—would rather demand of you—to read on. ou see, Kimball's does not fit the standard stereotype. The films shown here are not the snobby, overly-intellectual films that analyze the first snowfall as a metaphor for the human condition (yawn), or something equally ridiculous. Rather, these are the movies that inspire cult-followings and Sundance Film Festival awards (think Napoleon Dynamite). Instead of the overproduced, insert-laugh-here plots of mega-plex cinemas, Kimball's two theaters offer refreshing alternatives.

And, yes, I do mean refreshing.

This unique cinema also offers beer, wine, liquor and even espresso drinks to enhance your viewing pleasures. You can even ask the bartender which wine best compliments the delicate taste of buttered popcorn. Or Junior Mints. Yup, this is a whole different experience!

No matter where you're living in the Springs, take the trip to Kimball's Twin Peak Theater. You can't miss it thanks to the flashing, red lights.

Kimball's Twin Peak Theater
[where: 115 E. Pikes Peak Ave.]

Movie Line - 719.447.1945
Theater - 719.447.1947

Gloss Premium Denim Bar and Boutique--Where L.A. Glam Meets Briargate Suburbia

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:41:37 -0500

On the north end of Colorado Springs, pushing up against the eastern perimeter of the Air Force Academy's wilderness, lays Briargate—a vision of comfortable suburbia. Spacious homes look out over an unobstructed view of the Rocky Mountains, and families enjoy the numerous parks and bike trails throughout the community. With white picket fences, manicured lawns and romping golden retrievers, Briargate is an all-American suburb.

But Lisa Borden's goal is to bring a little bit of L.A.'s glitz and glam to the suburbs. Just under a year ago, Borden opened Gloss, a denim bar and boutique boasting the latest ladies' fashions. Located in The Promenade Shops at Briargate shopping center, Gloss has the largest selection of premium denim in southern Colorado, rocking names like True Religion, Miss Sixty, Citizens of Humanity, Seven Jeans, Juicy Couture and William Rast, among many others.

Yet the boutique is more than hot brand names. It's an experience. Walking into the airy shop, bubbly employees greet with big smiles and offer drinks while you shop (water? coffee? one cream or two?). Giant, painted portraits of fashion icons Jackie-O and Marilyn Monroe preside over the boutique, and adjacent to the fitting rooms is a stage with floor-to-ceiling mirrors where one can practice her supermodel strut. There's even a "Yummy Bar" where a gal can glam with soft scrubs, lip scrubs and lavish lotions.

Amidst all these delicious features and trends are also large couches where shoppers can leave the weary (read: husband/boyfriend). The lounge area offers free pretzels, candies, magazines to peruse and a flat screen TV for your viewing pleasures. The employees will even change the television channel to sports, if desired. Now that's
service!

With all of Gloss's big-city glamour located in the middle of cozy Briargate, it appears a girl can have it all (and a sweet pair of True Religions, too!).

Gloss at The Promenade Shops at Briargate
[where: 1845 Briargate Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO]
719. 623. 1652

Springs Salsa and Dance Fitness - Adding a sultry swagger to your step

Nina-Noelle Hall — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:40:55 -0500

Old Colorado City is renowned as the quaint and charming district of Colorado Springs. Sure, the area is cute, even proper. But it turns out the very heart of Old Town is one sexy momma thanks to a dance and fitness center, Springs Salsa & Dance Fitness.

Springs Salsa & Dance Fitness isn't your average gym or dance studio. Instead, this studio is a fusion--a spicy, hot, sultry, energetic fusion. The studio offers aerobic dance classes for adults (defined here as 14 yrs. and up). While some classes focus on the technical, such as the partner salsa workshops, many of the classes are a furious blend of style and fitness. Try, for example, Yoga Booty Ballet Funk. Just as the name suggests, the class highlights yoga sequences with ballet grace and funky grooves that get your booty shakin'. In fact, one can shake off 600 calories in a session! But how would a person ever guess s/he was burning that many calories while having so much fun?!

And that is the point, says teacher and co-founder, Dorrie Wexler. Springs Salsa & Dance Fitness prides itself on being fun and inviting—it just so happens that health and fitness are a part of the total package here. Wexler jokes, "It's the best place in the Springs to get your Latina injection!"

Yet, many here at the dance center will attest that the classes are more than calorie-burning grooves. Students say the classes also boost confidence, foster happiness and create community. If you've just moved to the area, this is a great place to meet people. So, no matter what you're getting from Springs Salsa, it seems you'll be walking out of there with a sultry swagger to your step.

Springs Salsa and Dance Fitness offers salsa, Yoga Booty Ballet, Zumba, Masala Bhangra, hip hop & break dancing, yoga, belly dancing, burlesque, Combat Cardio Jam and even pole dancing classes.

Springs Salsa & Dance Fitness
[where: 2506 W. Colorado Ave., unit C, Colorado Springs, CO 80904]
719. 520. 1201

Montague's Teahouse - Surprisingly Refreshing

Nina-Noelle Hall — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:25:08 -0500

Where the glitz of downtown blurs into the weary south-end district—a division handily marked by corroded train tracks—there resides a treasured Colorado Springs' staple: Montague's. Stuck in a strip of ever-transient businesses along busy South Tejon St., Montague's is a surprising and thriving teahouse boasting over 80 varieties of teas. But don't get your knickers bunched—they also appease the typical American thirst with delectable coffees and espressos. A stunning
spread of pastries and cakes clutter the length of an entire counter, and the teahouse also is complemented by a full menu (try the brie tomato pie). For your conversational pleasures, Montague's is cozily crowded with overstuffed armchairs and Victorian lampshades, creating a brilliant and eclectic atmosphere. In more ways than one, Montague's is a refreshing change.

And yet the boutique cafe resides in the city's hazy ambiguity, where affluent smudges into derelict. While Montague's immediate area isn't quite considered promiscuous (that would be a few blocks south), it's close enough to make one raise an eyebrow.

But that all depends on the perspective: is the teapot half empty? Or is this a goldmine of an opportunity to invest in a gentrifying neighborhood? According to a couple of Montague's baristas, the teapot is definitely half full. And filling up quickly.

Two blocks northeast of Montague's recently welcomed dazzling, contemporary condos. And there are rumors that new condos will go up across the street from Montague's come 2009. Meanwhile, most of the surrounding neighborhood is graced by affordable housing that feature lush lawns and settled trees. It appears that, like Montague's, this district is becoming a thriving and eclectic area. And where better to watch than from a comfy chair, with a spot of tea, in one of
Montague's spacious windows?

fratelli ristorante italiano

italian girl — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 09:28:14 -0500

Outdoor Guide to Colorado Springs

Ruth B — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 13:19:20 -0500

Summer is rolling around, and as soon as it heats up, there is no better way to take advantage of that warm Colorado sunshine then spending time outdoors. Colorado Springs offers a variety of different ways to enjoy the summertime, whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or just want to relax.

If being active is your goal, head up to Eleven Mile State. Just 38 miles west of the city on Highway 24, Eleven Mile offers an excellent location for hikes and camping. The reservoir has great fishing, and there are two boat ramps on its shores. Powerboats, sailboats, and windsurfers are all a common sight during the summer months. The park has nine different campgrounds, and several trails that offer short, relaxing hikes.

Another great place for a leisurely hike is Garden of the Gods in West Colorado Springs. Nestled along the northwestern side of Colorado Springs’ mountains, Garden of the Gods is a registered national natural landmark. The beautiful red sandstone formations are a must-visit in Colorado Springs, and the park is a perfect place for a light hike, family picnic, or a run with you pet. Climbers can enjoy some challenging technical climbs and bouldering on established routes throughout the park. The visitor’s center offers daily naturalist-guided walks, where you can learn about topics ranging from wildflowers to Colorado history.

Explore another beautiful natural sight by visiting Seven Falls. Oft-called the “grandest mile of scenery in Colorado,” the falls reach nearly 200 feet in the Cheyenne canyon. Just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, this phenomenon is another must-see. Visit at night in the summer, when the falls are lit up in a glowing display of colored lights. Families can enjoy tons of activities, from short hikes to authentic Native American dancers who perform during the summer months.

For outdoor fun within city limits, head over to Memorial Park, located just east of downtown, and hoem to Prospect Lake and a 1.25 mile jogging trail. In the summer months the lake is open for swimming, and paddle boats can be rented. Relax on the grass, feed the ducks, and let the kids loose on the playground. This park is a favorite of dog-owners, roller-bladers, and bikers alike.

For a fun, social way to burn some calories and play outside, considering joining the Jack Quinn’s Running Club. The weekly 5K run in sponsored by Jack Quinn’s, a pub located in downtown Colorado Springs [where: 21 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903], and a staple to both the city’s nightlife and live music scene. Every Tuesday, hundreds of runners, families, college kids gather to run the course, which loops around downtown. To help motivate you through the course, the pub offers up a free buffet to all racers, as well as tasty pints for $2.50 to quench your thirst.

If relaxing is more your thing, but being outside is still your aim, head downtown to enjoy the many restaurants and bars that have outdoor patios. Enjoy a margarita and some tacos on Jose Muldoon’s [where: 222 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903] giant backyard patio, complete with a fire pit. Chill out and read a good book while enjoying a blended Chai smoothie on the rooftop deck of Pike’s Perk [where: 4 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903]. Take an evening stroll down Tejon, and set your end destination at Josh and John’s [where: 111 E Pike Peak, Colorado Springs, CO 80903] for some homemade ice cream.

In Old Colorado City, Jake and Telly’s [where: 2616 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904] offers outdoor roof seating, where you can enjoy their excellent Greek food. For elegant dining with a view, head to The Cliff House’s Veranda in beautiful and eclectic Manitou Springs [where: 306 Canon Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829].

Summer is the time when sports fans rejoice. Baseball fans don’t have drive to Denver to get their fix either. Catch a Sky Sox game at Security Service Field in Powers on “$2 Tuesdays” for the ultimate in affordable fun. Parking, tickets, and draft beers are all only two dollars, so you can root on the home team without emptying your wallet.

To gear up for all your outdoor activities, look no further than downtown. Mountain Chalet, a locally owned mountaineering shop, has all the hiking boots, tents, and climbing gear that you’ll need for your outdoor summer adventures. Just a few doors down, Title Nine offers stylish and comfortable outdoor clothes for women. Just a bit further south is Colorado Running Company, where you can pick up new running shoes. They’ll find just the shoes for you, whether you want to run up trails, or just down the street to some free appetizers at Jack Quinn’s.

One thing is for sure, no matter how you choose to spend the summer months outside, Colorado Springs has tons of amazing ways that you can do so.

The Metropolitan - Where Mountain Man Meets Metropolis

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:18:03 -0500

Cozily nestled in the foothills of the towering Rocky Mountains, downtown Colorado Springs is renowned for attracting and encouraging active lifestyles, hyperactive even. Olympic athletes come here to train at our high altitudes. Active military establishments frame the city perimeters. And your everyday outdoors enthusiasts frequently migrate downtown for that almost-but-not-quite big city feel.

The hyperactivity prevalent in the Springs makes for an interesting downtown dynamic--one where mountain man meets metropolis. Men sporting their most fashionable still manage to wear flip flops or cowboy boots on a Saturday night. Amidst the row of Colorado Springs' hippest clubs and venues, one finds country music more often than not, and Coors draft is the staple. Hey, you can take the guy outta' the mountains, but you can't take the mountains outta' the guy... Or
something like that.

While all of the above is well and good, downtown residents are searching for more variety in this gentrifying city. So, the question becomes, after a full day of rock climbing/hiking/biking/skiing/etc, where does one go for that quenching martini? A double-malt scotch? Perfectly aged wines? Fine cuisine? People are searching for the best of both worlds, so where are the lounges?

Lounges are hard to come by still in the Springs. Literally. The Metropolitan Restaurant and Lounge is tucked away underground. Located below the new downtown lofts on Kiowa, just off the noisy Tejon drag, The Metropolitan is a beautiful and delicious slice of sophistication.

Appropriately called The Metropolitan, or The Metro, one finds the little lounge by locating the Alphonse Mucha metro sign (think of the artistic, vine-like iron metro signs that decorate Paris). Then, just like all those metro stops, you actually descend underground to a surprising space adorned with art nouveau chandeliers, mesmerizing gallery paintings and a mouthwatering menu and martini list. The macaroni and cheese is refreshingly unique, and the Rude-Koz martini boasts just the right amount of rudeness.

But don't worry. Come the end of the night, as you ascend the classically modern iron staircase to street level, the row of parked 4WD suburbans will remind you that you're not actually in Manhattan's cramped Upper East Side, but back in the stunning Rocky Mountain wilderness.

The Metropolitan
[where: 101 North Tejon St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903]
(but don't be fooled, the entrance is actually on Kiowa)
719-302-0280
www.themetropolitaindowntown.com

Old Colorado City - A Gold Mine

Nina-Noelle Hall — Wed, 28 May 2008 14:44:20 -0500

Resting at the base of Pikes Peak, Old Colorado City is a gold mine. Or that's what miners hoped when they set up camp here during the Gold Rush of the 1850's.

Turns out, the area was a total bust for miners, but the Rush initiated Colorado Springs' beautiful historic district that today can easily be defined as a residential gold mine.

Tall trees shade the area's main street, West Colorado Ave., while aged, brick buildings and lofts stand attention just behind. A stroll along the landscaped sidewalks becomes a window shopper's dream. One can ponder magnificent turquoise and silver jewelry, reminding the community that Native Americans admired this mountainous area long before the miners. Boutiques display the latest trends, which here is a unique fusion inspired by the Rocky Mountains, the Mexican influence and the swashbuckling cowboys. To say the least, Old Town represents a mesmerizing medley of history and cultures.

Capturing Old Town's distinctive exceptionality is Thunder Mountain Trading Company, 2508 W. Colorado Ave. As is everything in the area, Thunder Mountain is a fusion—it's an art gallery, a furniture store, a jewelry store and a Western apparel boutique. The ceilings are hung with intricate chandlers crafted from buck antlers. The walls are adorned with Ute Indian inspired dream weavers and stone jewelry. Toward the back, a hunting gallery boasts a stuffed mountain lion and a moose head. There's even nuggets of Fools Gold for any optimistic miners.

Thunder Mountain is an unusual and fascinating gallery that represents Old Colorado City's diverse historical and cultural blend. And, in turn, it is precisely these boutiques that distinguish Old Town as Colorado Springs' precious gold mine.

Thunder Mountain Trading Company
[where: 2508 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904]
719-632-7331
www.ThunderMountainTrading.com

Marigold Café And Bakery…YUM!!!!!!

iluvcs — Thu, 01 May 2008 08:52:41 -0500

Marigold Café and Bakery is located right off of Garden of the Gods and Centennial Blvd. I would say it is known for the freshest ingredients, amazing homemade breads, pastries and deserts and their amazing and inventive sandwiches (get it on their French or croissant roll).

Dinner is also great. It’s a little more refined than breakfast and lunch. One of my favorites in the past has been the salmon with sautéed spinach, goat cheese and sun-dried tomato pesto.

Don’t forget dessert. That’s another specialty of Marigold Café and Bakery. Get the carrot cake!

You’ll love the small bistro café feel that is so hard to find these days in a world of chains, chains and more chains.

Marigold Cafe and Bakery

[where: 4605 Centennial Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919]

Regina’s Unique Boutique in Downtown Colorado Springs

sass — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:14:19 -0500

I love this cute little boutique, it’s got everything from evening dresses to jeans, lingerie to sandals. Most of all who doesn’t love a little bubbly while they’re trying on fab finds?

Regina’s Unique Boutique
[where: 119 N Tejon, Colorado Springs, Co 80903]
719.634.6833

Southside Johnny’s In Downtown Colorado Springs

sass — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 15:26:45 -0500

Serving good ‘ol American food for years, this neighborhood bar and grill serves up a variety of tasty dishes. You can’t go wrong with a breakfast burrito and bloody mary for brunch. Or try a side of sweet potato fries with a salmon salad..mmm delicious! If you need a bit more substance order a big boy meal like the country fried new yorker, fish & chips, chipotle pesto pasta or the classic BBQ ribs. I promise you won’t have room for another beer.

This local favorite doesn’t just serve amazing meals – there’s outdoor dining, multiple TV screens, a stage for area bands and DJ’s, games (pool, foosball, golf), free WiFi and merchandise!

Proudly perched on the corner of Tejon Street and Cimarron Street, Southside Johnny’s is just far enough from the hustle and bustle of down downtown Colorado Springs so you can stretch out and relax.

Southside Johnny’s
[where: 528 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903]
719-444-8487