If you’ve visited the Pikes Peak region, you know that Colorado Springs is home to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo -- one of the nation’s premier zoological parks. Many of our homeowners and their families visit, volunteer or participate in its education programs. The Zoo is also one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations, and families love its annual “Boo at the Zoo” Halloween or holiday “Electric Safari” events.
Located at the heart of our Broadmoor community, the Zoo’s rich history began with Broadmoor Hotel founder and philanthropist Spencer Penrose’s lifelong interest in animals. Historians say it was the gift of a bear in 1916 that inspired him to collect exotic animals. A new animal was added each year until his death. Penrose ultimately incorporated the Zoo as a non-profit public trust to the people of Colorado Springs “for the sole purpose of establishing and maintaining a zoological park to provide recreation, education, conservation and scientific facilities in the field of zoology and related subjects, and to preserve the Zoo in perpetuity for the people of the Pikes Peak region.”
Today, America’s only mountain zoo is known for its unique setting, spectacular views and noted animal collection. At an elevation of 6,800 feet overlooking the Pikes Peak region, zoo property spans 146 acres. It is also located near the hotel, the Broadmoor Resort Community, Old Broadmoor and other scenic neighborhoods.
Since Penrose moved his collection to the mountainside, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s living collection has grown to 1,088 animal specimens, representing 244 species. A fascinating addition to our Broadmoor lifestyle and legacy!
If you’ve considered a primary residence or vacation home at or near The Broadmoor, we invite you to give us a call at 719-471-6200.