The Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Visiting the Colorado Springs area is an adventure in history and nature and the Manitou Cliff Dwellings are no exception. These dwellings are located at the base of Pike's Peak overlooking the historic city of Manitou Springs, CO.

I visited the cliff dwellings recently and was amazed! The sense of history there is overwhelming. It was so interesting to see how the Native Americans lived thousands of years before us. Of course I had read about it in books, but it could not compare to seeing the actual homes of the natives.

This fantastic historical site has been preserved for the educational purposes and there is much to be learned here about the way the ancients lived. These are authentic cliff dwellings that are believed to have been built sometime in the 13^th century and were first opened to the public in 1906. Visitors are allowed and encouraged to tour the dwellings, which were homes to the Anasazi. They are welcome to touch the walls and explore the intricacies of these ancient apartment style living quarters. The central fire pit can be seen, as well as the area where rubbish was kept and the stone bin used for storage. You are not allowed to visit the kiva below the dwellings because it is considered inappropriate.

During the summer months of June through August visitors will be treated to traditional Native American dancing. The colors and beading of the dancers tribal wear is stunning and the traditional dances will enthrall everyone in the crowd. An announcer tells about the origins of the dances and the dancers themselves. The Hoop Dance and The Eagle Dance were two of the featured dances. At the end of the dance program, the children are invited up to participate in The Round Dance, also known as The Friendship Dance. This is an exciting opportunity for children to learn about an ancient culture and their traditions.

A museum and gift shop is housed in a pueblo style building that can also be found on the grounds. The museum offers further educational opportunities to learn about the Anasazi culture, while the three-story gift shop holds an impressive amount of goods including everything from souvenirs to artistic works from native artists.

The cliff dwellings are open every day, all year round. During May through September the park is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is reasonable at $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for children ages 7-11, and $7.50 for seniors over age 60. Children 6 and under, people in wheelchairs, and anyone over 100 is admitted free.

There is a snack bar on the premises, but you are welcome to bring a sack lunch or picnic and dine in the shadow of these historical homes.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are located on U.S. Highway 24, about five miles from Colorado Springs.