Manitou Springs
Magic in the Mountains: Why Manitou Springs is Colorado’s Most Enchanting Hometown
While much of the Front Range is defined by rapid growth and modern expansion, Manitou Springs remains a world apart. Tucked into a narrow canyon at the foot of Pikes Peak, this historic resort town of 4,800 residents offers a lifestyle that is equal parts bohemian, athletic, and historic.
In 2026, Manitou Springs continues to be one of the most exclusive and culturally rich places to live in Colorado. Here is why this "Goldilocks" town—not too big, not too small—is the ultimate destination for those who want to live with character.
1. A Walkable, Artisan Soul
Manitou Springs is one of the few truly walkable mountain towns in the region. Residents enjoy a vibrant downtown corridor that feels more like a European village than a typical American suburb.
Locally Owned Everything: You won't find big-box stores here. Instead, Manitou Avenue is lined with over 30 locally owned restaurants, art galleries, and eclectic boutiques.
The Arts Scene: From the Manitou Art Center to the public murals and the weekly summer drum circles in Memorial Park, the town is a sanctuary for creatives and free spirits.
Penny Arcade Nostalgia: A local treasure, the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade features hundreds of vintage games, offering a whimsical trip back in time for residents of all ages.
2. The Wellness Legacy: Mineral Springs
Founded in 1872 as a health resort, Manitou’s identity is literally "in the water."
The Eight Springs: The town is famous for its eight naturally carbonated mineral springs. Residents can take a self-guided tour with a tasting cup to enjoy the unique mineral profiles of springs like Cheyenne or 7 Minute Spring.
Modern Healing: This legacy of wellness continues today with a community focused on holistic health, clean mountain air, and a slower, more intentional pace of life.
3. Training Ground for the Elite (and the Brave)
If you live in Manitou, the mountains are your gym. The town is the gateway to some of the most iconic physical challenges in the world:
The Manitou Incline: Right in your backyard is the legendary 2,744-step staircase that gains 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile.
Barr Trail: This 13-mile trail starts in town and winds all the way to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.
Intemann Trail: A "local’s favorite" trail that traverses the hillside, connecting Manitou to Red Rock Canyon Open Space without ever needing to drive.
4. Small-School Excellence: District 14
For families, the Manitou Springs School District 14 is a primary draw. It is the last "small" public school system in the metropolitan area, offering a private-school feel with public-school resources.
"Relationships, Rigor, Opportunity": With roughly 1,450 students, the district is known for its tight-knit community where teachers truly know every student’s name.
Outdoor Education: The district often incorporates the town’s unique geography into its curriculum, fostering a generation of students who are as comfortable in the forest as they are in the classroom.
5. Historic Architecture & Niche Real Estate
Real estate in Manitou Springs is unlike anywhere else in the Pikes Peak region.
Victorian Splendor: The town is famous for its "Centenarian" homes—beautifully preserved Victorians and stone cottages dating back to the late 1800s.
Hillside Retreats: For those who want modern views, newer custom builds are nestled high on the cliffs in gated communities like Cedar Heights (which offers city utilities) or the more rustic Crystal Park.
Investment Stability: Because the canyon geography limits new sprawl, property in Manitou Springs is finite and highly sought after, leading to strong long-term value retention.
