A place like no other near Colorado Springs in Colorado
The U.S. Air Force Academy is an educational institution located north of Colorado Springs. While it primarily serves future military members, certain areas of the campus are open to the public and definitely worth exploring. One of the main attractions is the visitor center, a spacious facility spanning 31,600 square feet. Inside, you can immerse yourself in an informative exhibit that showcases the daily life of cadets. Although you won’t be able to enter the actual student dorms, there’s a life-size replica of a cadet dorm room for you to see. The exhibit also highlights various types of cadet uniforms and squadron patches. Furthermore, you can enjoy a 21-minute film about the Academy and admire a model of the magnificent Cadet Chapel. Unfortunately, the real chapel is currently undergoing extensive renovations and is concealed within a large white box. Visitors will have to wait until 2027 for its grand reopening.
The Planetarium is available to the public on Fridays through Mondays, and it offers free shows. You can check the schedule here. If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, visit Arnold Hall, the cadet social center. Before exploring the area on your own, it’s recommended to stop by the visitor center and pick up a map of key sites and walking trails. Keep in mind that some important viewpoints are located before reaching the visitor center, so you might want to consider checking out the online self-guided tour as well. One popular trail to take is the paved Chapel Trail, which provides views of the cadets’ living quarters and classroom area. However, be aware that the high altitude can make it feel challenging. Alternatively, you can drive to the parking area at the Planetarium to reach the overlook.