The city has numerous well-maintained museums to document its rich history. For a lowdown on mining, visit the Western Museum of Mining and Industry. The Ghost Town Museum is a journey into Colorado's gold-rush era; look out for the charming old replica town, reminiscent of the 1800s. The state's largest gallery, Garden of the Gods Trading Post, delights visitors with its unique wares and the buffalo burgers served in the café.
Find out who founded Colorado Springs at the Pioneers Museum, or dip into rodeo culture at the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy. Thousands of insects from the tropics await bug fanatics at the fascinating May Natural History Museum. The Peterson Air and Space Museum houses aircraft, missiles, and other mechanical highlights. The Colorado Springs Philharmonic and Pikes Peak Center take care of the performing arts needs of the city.