Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City is a wonderful place to shop and sightsee in Colorado Springs. There are all sorts of great shops to explore.


There are restaurants, galleries, jewelry stores, hotels, and 42 specialty shops where you can find almost anything from toys and clothing to rocks and fossils.

This shopping mecca is also known as Old Town in Colorado Springs. Old Town is on West Colorado Avenue. Take I-25 over to W. Uintah Street and then head west to N. 21st Street. Turn South on N. 21st and then turn west on West Colorado Avenue and drive down just a few blocks. Park and get out of your car and walk along the street, visiting each shop that catches your interest.

There are several free public parking lots along the way so you do not have to pay for parking.

Old Town extends from 24th Street up to 28th Street on both sides of W. Colorado Avenue. Allow at least a half day to shop and explore. Eat lunch there and just have fun. My kids loved going there, especially when we went into toy shops and rock and fossil shops. There is something for everyone.

Old Colorado City was once the capitol of the Colorado Territory  back in 1861. To celebrate this, each May, Territory Days are held. For 2009, the dates are May 23, 24, and 25. This is a huge street festival with food, music, arts and crafts and a big parade.

Up to 140,000 visitors attend this annual Memorial Day weekend event, depending on how the weather cooperates. Sometimes, the thunderstorms prevent some of the festivities.

Events include mechanical bull riding, trampolines, a rock climbing wall, balloon art and face painting for the kids, gold panning, gun fighting demonstrations, and lots of shopping.

Pets are not allowed during Territory Days so please do not attempt to bring them. They will not be let in. If you are traveling with your pet, please find a kennel to let them stay in for the day. Your pet will be much happier in a kennel than staying alone in a hot car.