Top Museums to Visit in Colorado Springs

Discover the charm of Colorado Springs through its unique museums. Ghost Town Museum takes you back to the Old West with recreated buildings and interactive exhibits. At the ANA Money Museum, explore the evolution of money in America's largest coin collection.

The May Natural History Museum showcases an extraordinary insect collection. Immerse yourself in World War II aviation history at the National Museum of World War II Aviation. Finally, get hands-on with mining history at the Western Museum of Mining & Industry.

Each museum offers a simple yet fascinating glimpse into the city's cultural and historical heritage, making Colorado Springs a rich destination for exploration.

Here are some of the great museums to go to in Colorado Spring:

Ghost Town Museum

Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, Ghost Town Museum is a captivating journey back in time, immersing visitors in the rugged charm of the Old West. This unique museum transports guests to the late 19th century, where they can explore a meticulously recreated frontier town.

Wander through the well-preserved buildings, each filled with authentic artifacts that tell the tales of the pioneers and prospectors who once roamed these streets. Ghost Town Museum brings history to life with interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to touch and feel the past.

From the bustling saloon and blacksmith shop to the dusty streets lined with antique wagons, every corner resonates with the spirit of the Wild West. Engaging staff in period costumes further enhances the experience, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of the era.

Whether a history enthusiast or a casual explorer, Ghost Town Museum promises a nostalgic adventure through a bygone era, making it a must-visit attraction in Colorado Springs.

ANA Money Museum in Colorado College

The second gem on our list is the ANA Money Museum at Colorado College, a captivating destination nestled within the picturesque Colorado College campus. Boasting the title of America's largest repository of coins, tokens, and paper money, this museum is a unique treat for visitors seeking an enriching experience against the backdrop of scenic beauty.

Established by the American Numismatic Association, an organization dedicated to promoting the education and exploration of coin collecting, the Money Museum stands as a distinctive attraction suitable for the entire family.

Delve into the fascinating history of currency through a vast exhibit that traces its evolution from primitive shells to the modern era of debit cards. Alternatively, wander through the rare coin exhibit, where you might stumble upon coins with a value reaching millions of dollars.

A highlight of the visit is the Mini-Mint, a captivating working display of coin minting that transports you back to the Renaissance era. Witness the intricate process of how money was crafted during this period, adding an immersive touch to your exploration of the museum.

The ANA Money Museum offers a one-of-a-kind blend of education and fascination, making it a must-visit destination for those intrigued by the evolution of currency and the artistry behind it.

May Natural History Museum

When we say "extraordinary," the May Natural History Museum takes the concept to a whole new level. Your first clue comes at the entrance, where the presence of Herkimer, an enormous Hercules beetle, welcomes you. It quickly becomes evident that this isn't your typical roadside attraction – you've stepped into a genuine bug museum.

The May Museum proudly houses one of the most extensive private insect collections on the planet. The late James May, a prolific collector with a passion for exploration, traversed the globe to amass a staggering collection exceeding 7,000 insects.

As you wander through the museum, you'll encounter specimens like a walking stick the length of your forearm and spiders reaching the size of your hand. Rest assured, these captivating creatures are preserved, safely encased beneath the protective glass, allowing for careful observation without any concerns.

National Museum of World War II Aviation

Our next highlight is the National Museum of World War II Aviation, an expansive facility dedicated to immersing visitors in the rich history of World War II. Situated just outside the Colorado Springs Airport, this museum stands as a testament to the visionaries who sought to create a unique institution shedding light on America's aviation legacy during this pivotal era.

Strategically located in Colorado Springs, a city with deep ties to aviation and aerial history, the museum finds its home in proximity to the prestigious Air Force Academy. Founded in collaboration with WestPac Restoration, a renowned airplane restoration company, the museum engages in the meticulous restoration of antique military aircraft.

The goal is to present these historical artifacts in conditions as close to their original forms as possible, allowing visitors to step back in time and witness the significance of America's aviation history during World War II.

Western Museum of Mining & Industry

Exploring Colorado's history may seem like a familiar journey, but each museum adds its unique twist to the narrative. The Western Museum of Mining & Industry stands out by immersing visitors in the captivating world of mining and mineral history, offering a truly remarkable experience.

As you step onto the grounds, you'll find yourself surrounded by an impressive array of old mining equipment, some so colossal that you'll marvel at how they were transported to the museum. These mechanical giants serve as tangible remnants of an era when mining played a pivotal role in shaping the state of Colorado and, by extension, the entire United States.

No exploration of a mining museum would be complete without the immersive experience of gold panning. Grab a pan and try your hand at uncovering a piece of the magical element that lured countless individuals to the West over a century ago.

The Western Museum of Mining & Industry invites you to not only witness but actively participate in the rich tapestry of mining history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a hands-on connection with the pioneering spirit of the past.

Bottom Line

Colorado Springs' museums offer a diverse and enriching experience, showcasing the city's cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. From the clever blend of entertainment and history at the Ghost Town Museum to the fascinating insights into currency evolution at the ANA Money Museum, each institution contributes to a vibrant tapestry of the region's past.