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Manitou Cliff Dwellings: A Step Back in Time

Explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings in Manitou Springs, Colorado. A unique, hands-on historical experience for all ages.

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Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a unique historical attraction featuring relocated Ancestral Puebloan structures. Wander through ancient rooms, touch the stonework, and learn about the lives of the people who once inhabited them. A hands-on experience that brings history to life in the scenic setting of Manitou Springs.

A brief summary to Manitou Cliff Dwellings

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven ground and climbing steps.
  • Visit during the off-season or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Take your time to explore each room and read the informative signs to learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the site is open year-round, weather permitting.
  • Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy at the snack bar and picnic patio next to the cliff dwellings.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are located five miles west of Colorado Springs on U.S. Highway 24. From I-25, take Exit 141 and head west on U.S. Highway 24 for five miles. The entrance is on the right, marked by billboards and state highway signs. Free parking is available on-site. During peak season, parking can be limited. Consider arriving early in the day. There are no toll roads on the final approach. Parking: Free.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Colorado Springs, take the Mountain Metropolitan Transit Line 3 bus towards Manitou Springs. The bus stops at 10 Old Mans Trail, a short walk from the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. Cost: The bus fare is $2.

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Discover more about Manitou Cliff Dwellings

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a rare opportunity to explore preserved Ancestral Puebloan architecture in a stunning setting. These structures, originally built by the Ancient Puebloans who roamed the Four Corners region of the Southwest from 1200 B.C. to 1300 A.D., were relocated to Manitou Springs in the early 1900s to protect them from looting and destruction. Visitors can wander through the dwellings, experiencing the architecture up close and gaining insight into the daily lives of the ancient people. The site includes a three-story Pueblo-style building that houses a museum with artifacts and exhibits, as well as a gift shop where you can find Native American pottery, jewelry, and other souvenirs. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings provide a memorable and educational experience for all ages. The interactive nature of the attraction, where visitors are encouraged to touch and explore the structures, sets it apart from traditional museums. The dwellings are open year-round, weather permitting, offering a glimpse into the past against the backdrop of the beautiful Pikes Peak region.

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