Nestled beneath the shadow of Cheyenne Mountain, the Broadmoor neighborhood in Colorado Springs is a community rich with history, elegance, and natural beauty. Known today for its luxurious homes, leafy boulevards, and the iconic Broadmoor Resort, this distinctive enclave has a heritage stretching back well over a century. For residents and visitors alike, the story of Broadmoor is not just about grand hotels and sprawling estates—it's a tale of visionaries, growth, and a special sense of place that continues to enchant all who wander its tree-lined streets.
Origins of Broadmoor: From Dairy Farms to Destination Resort
The story of Broadmoor begins in the late 1800s, a period when much of the area around present-day Lake Avenue and Cheyenne Road was rolling pastureland and dairy farms. Its transformation started when Willie Wilcox, a prominent local businessman, purchased properties near Cheyenne Mountain in 1890 with a bold vision in mind. Inspired by European luxury resorts, Wilcox dreamed of creating a destination unlike any other in the Pikes Peak region.
The name “Broadmoor” itself is believed to have been inspired by the broad expanse of moor-like fields that once swept across the southern edge of Colorado Springs—an open, slightly wild terrain surrounded by the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. The term conveyed both the vastness and the romantic promise of the area.
Wilcox’s early attempt to establish Broadmoor as a resort neighborhood first took shape with the construction of a small casino and hotel, but it wasn’t until 1916, when Spencer Penrose entered the picture, that the Broadmoor’s true transformation began.
The Broadmoor Hotel: Spark and Centerpiece of Neighborhood Growth
Spencer Penrose, a flamboyant mining magnate and philanthropist, purchased Wilcox’s holdings and, with substantial investment and imagination, began construction of what would become the centerpiece of the entire neighborhood: The Broadmoor Hotel. Completed in 1918 on the shores of a manmade lake, the Italian Renaissance-style hotel was an immediate sensation, attracting guests from across the country with its European grandeur, breathtaking mountain views, and impeccable service.
Key moments in this era include:
- The construction of Lake Avenue as a grand tree-lined thoroughfare leading to the hotel.
- The creation of the Broadmoor Casino and Lakes, enhancing the area’s charm and allure.
- Significant landscaping and the planting of stately elms, which still shade many Broadmoor streets today.
The presence of the resort and its demand for top-notch service and amenities ignited further development. Upscale estates, golf courses, and country clubs flourished along streets like Pourtales Road, Elm Avenue, and the aptly named Penrose Boulevard.
Distinctive Landmarks and Institutions
While the hotel itself remains Broadmoor’s crown jewel, the neighborhood boasts a wealth of other notable landmarks that anchor its identity:
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Established in 1926 by Spencer Penrose, the zoo is the highest in North America. Its winding trails and panoramic city views have delighted generations.
- Penrose House: Once the residence of Spencer and Julie Penrose, this exquisite Italianate mansion on Lake Avenue now serves as a conference center for nonprofit organizations.
- Colorado Springs School: Housed in the historic Trianon mansion (built in 1919 for Grace Goodyear Depew), this private PK-12 school is a living link to Broadmoor’s aristocratic roots.
- Sacred Heart Catholic Church: Founded in 1929, this community hub on West Cheyenne Road reflects the neighborhood's longtime spirit of community and tradition.
Many homes in Broadmoor are themselves landmarks, reflecting an array of architectural styles—from Tuscan villas and Tudor revivals to classic Craftsman bungalows—often tucked into quiet cul-de-sacs like Miramar Drive.
Evolution Over the Decades
The Broadmoor neighborhood has changed alongside Colorado Springs itself, adapting to the needs and tastes of each new era while remaining one of the most sought-after places to live in the region.
- 1920s–1940s: Broadmoor was a retreat for wealthy Easterners and celebrities, forming the social heart of Colorado Springs. Its streets filled with elegant parties at the hotel, polo matches on the meadows, and scenic carriage rides.
- Post-WWII: Subdivision of larger estates created opportunities for families seeking tranquility and class. Institutions like the Broadmoor Community Church (built in the 1960s at 315 Lake Avenue) testified to the area’s growing year-round community.
- Modern Day: Broadmoor continues to be an address of distinction—home to business leaders, longtime city residents, and those drawn by the neighborhood’s schools, parks, and proximity to the wonders of Cheyenne Cañon and Seven Falls. Modern restaurants and boutiques near First Street blend seamlessly with classic establishments like the Golden Bee, the Broadmoor’s renowned British pub.
Parks, Nature, and A Strong Sense of Community
Beyond its history and luxury, Broadmoor is defined by its outdoor spaces. The leafy paths of Broadmoor Valley Park, the open spaces near Stratton Open Space, and the trails of Cheyenne Cañon all offer easy escapes to nature.
Annual events—like Broadmoor’s celebrated tree lighting and neighborhood parades— foster a warmth and sense of belonging, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home while honoring the area’s cherished traditions.
Why Broadmoor Endures
Broadmoor’s secret is its unique blend of luxury and friendliness. Whether you’re strolling under the canopy of Lake Avenue’s ancient elms, watching giraffes at the mountainside zoo, or simply relaxing on a front porch as the sun sets over Cheyenne Mountain, it’s easy to see why Broadmoor remains one of Colorado Springs’ most beloved neighborhoods.
It’s not just the beauty, the history, or the landmarks—it’s also the stories passed down, the welcoming neighbors, and the enduring sense of pride that continue to make Broadmoor an extraordinary place to live and visit.