The best arts & culture spots in El Paso County

“Founded by local residents in December 2003, Fountain Valley Historical Society preserves and shares the Fountain Valley's history with the community. Perfect for anyone who's said 'I remember when', it's a low-key way to reconnect with what shaped Fountain and pick up a little extra hometown pride.”

From the Fountain newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Brush up on your rodeo IQ at the ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy, where exhibits trace the sport’s roots and honor its greats, from champion riders to famous animal athletes, with inductions dating back to 1979 and hundreds enshrined. Perfect local field trip this week.”

From the Castle Rock newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Housed in a 1969 Cinerama dome, Stargazers Theatre & Event Center keeps a lively calendar of concerts, tribute shows, and dance parties with a warm, welcoming vibe. The 550-seat local landmark makes it easy to meet up with friends and enjoy a night that feels genuinely Colorado Springs.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Whether you grew up hearing sirens on Academy or just appreciate old-school craftsmanship, Dr. Lester L. Williams Fire Museum lines up vintage trucks, pumpers, and steamers alongside Colorado Springs gear, rotating exhibits, and photos.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Whether you grew up hearing mine tales or just like loud machines, Western Museum of Mining & Industry makes Colorado’s past feel alive with working equipment demos, a model mining drift, gold panning, and smart docents across a 27-acre campus.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Whether you’re bug-curious or deeply entomology-pilled, May Natural History Museum packs the world’s largest private insect collection with over 7,000 butterflies, beetles, spiders and scorpions that are weirdly beautiful up close.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum keeps our city’s story alive with rotating exhibits spanning tattoo art, Fannie Mae Duncan’s legacy, and powerful explorations of Ute homeland history, plus guided tours and talks in the heart of downtown.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 23, 2026

“If you want to remind yourself that engines, rivets, and pure grit helped win the 1940s, the National Museum of World War II Aviation puts 28 restored, airworthy warbirds, thousands of artifacts, and even operational ground vehicles under one roof. Go self-guided or snag a tour for deeper stories.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Pikes Punks Comedy Show curates touring headliners and sharp local comics, bringing big-city energy to the Springs with showcases featuring talent seen on Comedy Central, HBO, and Kill Tony. Nominated among the city’s best for comedy, make it your plan this week for easy laughs with local spirit.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, October 9, 2026

“S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum turns Team USA history into a hands-on sprint, with immersive galleries, sport simulators, athlete spotlights, and a legit Hall of Fame. When you need an inspiration boost between errands, this place brings the goosebumps and reminds you why we love a good underdog story.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Ghost Town Museum turns a random afternoon into frontier fun with an indoor streetscape of rescued buildings and artifacts from the Pikes Peak region, hands-on throwbacks like cranking a butter churn, a quirky shooting gallery and antique arcade games, plus summertime gold panning if you’re feeling lucky.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, October 12, 2026

“Whether you're a Pikes Peak lifer or just need an easy win for visiting relatives, Penrose Heritage Museum packs 30 gleaming carriages, 15 legit Hill Climb racers, and artifacts from Spencer and Julie Penrose into a free, quick-hit wander that feels very Colorado Springs.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, September 29, 2026

“When you need a quick reset above the city, Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun delivers sweeping panoramas, a 114-foot granite tower from 1937 built without nails, a Randall Davey mural, and the Penroses’ quiet chapel. It’s local history you can actually step into.”

From the Colorado Springs newsletter, August 10, 2026