Nestled at the base of Cheyenne Mountain and stretching south of central Colorado Springs, Old Broadmoor Road is more than just a route—it’s the heart of a historic neighborhood with roots as deep as the pines lining its streets. For generations, this quiet enclave has beckoned residents and visitors craving scenic beauty, refined elegance, and a taste of Colorado’s storied past. Let’s take a stroll down Old Broadmoor Road and discover what makes it such a treasured part of the Springs.
Origins: The Birth of a Neighborhood
The story of Old Broadmoor Road begins in the late 1800s, when Colorado Springs was still coming into its own as a frontier town and health resort. The area that would become the Old Broadmoor Road neighborhood was originally ranchland, framed by sweeping views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain. In the early 1900s, as the city grew, prominent families and visionaries saw potential in the rolling terrain south of downtown.
By 1897, the Broadmoor Dairy Farm, known for its lush pastures and gentle hills, stood near where Old Broadmoor Road meets Lake Avenue—a road that would give rise to some of Colorado Springs’ most iconic developments. As transportation improved, settlers and investors began developing the land for elegant homes, drawn by the promise of peaceful surroundings close to the city.
A Name Steeped in Tradition
Old Broadmoor Road owes its name to the famed Broadmoor area, itself named after the sweeping “broad moor” or meadow that characterized the region. The road, which today meanders past Lake Avenue, Cheyenne Boulevard, and Penrose Boulevard, quickly became synonymous with stately homes and exclusivity.
Lake Avenue, intersecting with Old Broadmoor Road, became a lifeline to the Broadmoor Hotel—the jewel that would define the neighborhood’s destiny. Over the years, addresses along Old Broadmoor Road carried both prestige and a sense of timeless Colorado tranquility.
Key Historical Milestones
Several milestones shaped Old Broadmoor Road into the cherished neighborhood we recognize today:
- 1918: The Broadmoor Hotel Opens
- Visionary entrepreneur Spencer Penrose opened The Broadmoor Hotel, just a stone’s throw from Old Broadmoor Road. This world-class resort ushered in a new era for the area, attracting celebrities, dignitaries, and new residents enchanted by the lush surroundings and sophisticated lifestyle.
- Early to Mid-20th Century: Grand Homes and Estates
- The neighborhood blossomed as prominent families built grand estates with gardens, carriage houses, and sweeping lawns—many of which remain to this day, their original charm intact.
- 1930s-1950s: Expansion and Stability
- Following the Great Depression and World War II, Old Broadmoor Road evolved gracefully, adding more refined residences while maintaining its open, park-like atmosphere.
- Late 20th Century: Preservation Efforts
- As Colorado Springs boomed, residents became champions of preservation, seeking to maintain the area’s unique character amid growth. Today, several properties are recognized for their historical and architectural value.
Notable Landmarks and Treasures
Old Broadmoor Road is graced by enduring landmarks that reflect its rich heritage and close-knit community spirit:
- The Broadmoor Hotel and Resort
- Just off Lake Avenue, this famed hotel is a landmark in its own right, frequently voted one of the world’s best resorts. Its Mediterranean-style architecture and impeccable gardens are a visual treat for anyone strolling the nearby neighborhoods.
- Cheyenne Mountain Country Club
- Established in 1891 and located off Old Broadmoor Road, the Country Club was one of the earliest private clubs west of the Mississippi. Its historic clubhouse and verdant grounds have witnessed decades of social gatherings and leisure.
- Little Dipper Pool
- A lesser-known gem tucked just off Old Broadmoor Road, the beloved Little Dipper Pool has been a summer mainstay for neighborhood families since the mid-20th century.
- Broadmoor Community Church
- Located on Cheyenne Road near the intersection with Old Broadmoor Road, this historic congregation has brought neighbors together for decades, fostering a sense of fellowship and tradition.
Streets, Parks, and Institutions with Local Flair
Old Broadmoor Road’s charm isn’t just in its past—it shines in the details you’ll find along its winding streets.
- Wander down Penrose Boulevard, named for the influential Penrose family, where century-old oaks and pines provide a leafy canopy.
- Cheyenne Boulevard offers a picturesque drive past rock-walled estates and meticulously maintained gardens.
- Bear Creek Park and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, though just outside the neighborhood, are beloved by locals for family outings and scenic walks.
Nearby institutions like Broadmoor Elementary School and the Penrose House Conference Center are steeped in history, serving as more than just buildings—they’re the neighborhood’s gathering places and keepers of local stories.
Evolution Over the Decades
While proud of its history, Old Broadmoor Road isn’t frozen in time. As the decades have passed, the neighborhood has welcomed new generations of families, each drawn by its peaceful streets and rich cultural heritage. Modern touches coexist with tradition: renovated historic homes sit alongside newer builds designed to complement their surroundings.
Residents take pride in the neighborhood’s sense of continuity, with annual events and holiday celebrations that echo traditions stretching back many years. Community organizations are active in promoting historic preservation, mindful of the delicate balance between growth and the preservation of character.
What Makes Old Broadmoor Road Special
Ask any longtime resident, and they’ll tell you: there’s a unique warmth to Old Broadmoor Road. Maybe it’s the way the morning light dapples through ancient trees, or how neighbors greet each other on evening strolls past grand old homes. It could be the deep-rooted sense of community, or simply the quiet beauty of a place where history and modern living blend seamlessly.
Whether you’re exploring the manicured paths near the Broadmoor Hotel, watching children play in neighborhood parks, or admiring the stately homes during a peaceful walk, Old Broadmoor Road offers a living connection to Colorado Springs’ remarkable past—and a vibrant sense of belonging that endures.