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Manitou Cliff Dwellings: A Step Back in Time

Explore ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in Manitou Springs, Colorado. A unique cultural and historical experience for all ages.

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Explore the relocated Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a unique cultural preserve featuring Ancestral Puebloan ruins transported from their original Four Corners location in the early 1900s. Wander through ancient dwellings, examine artifacts, and immerse yourself in the history of the Southwest's indigenous people.

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 terrain includes steps, narrow passages, and gravel surfaces.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the dwellings, museum, and gift shop.
  • Visit during the off-season (March-May or September-November) for fewer crowds.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available on Cliff Dwellings Road.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Colorado Springs, take US Highway 24 West towards Manitou Springs. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are located on the left side of the highway, approximately 5 miles west of I-25. Look for the billboards and state highway signs marking the entrance. Free parking is available on Cliff Dwellings Road. During peak season, arrive early as parking can be limited.

  • Public Transport

    From the Colorado Springs Terminal, take the Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) Line 3 bus towards Manitou Springs. The bus departs hourly and arrives at 10 Old Mans Trail, a short walk from the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. A one-way fare is $2. Check the MMT website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.

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Discover more about Manitou Cliff Dwellings

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore the architectural remnants of the Ancestral Puebloans. These fascinating cliff dwellings, originally located in McElmo Canyon in southwestern Colorado, were carefully relocated to Manitou Springs in the early 20th century to protect them from looting and destruction. The preserve consists of stones gathered from a collection of mesa top dwellings. Visitors can wander through the dwellings, experiencing the architecture of the Ancient Puebloan people firsthand. The dwellings are built into a natural red sandstone overhang, providing a dramatic backdrop for exploration. Below the cliff dwellings, a three-story Pueblo-style building houses the Anasazi Museum and a gift shop. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that offer insights into the lives and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. The gift shop offers Native American-made pottery, jewelry, and artifacts, as well as Colorado and US-made gifts. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings provide a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It's a chance to connect with the past and learn about the rich history of the American Southwest.

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