Reno Nevada

Gold Silver Gambling Divorce Ski Resorts and Water Sports

History pioneers settled in the Truckee Meadows where the Truckee River flows from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake. These mid-19^th century farmers also provided services for travelers on the California Trail. Mining became the foremost local activity with the discovery of gold in nearby Virginia City and especially silver at the Comstock Lode in 1859 when Virginia City and the California Trail were connected by a a log toll bridge across the Truckee River. Lake Crossing, a small community that serviced travelers near the bridge, became the site of a depot on the First Transcontinental Railroad where the town of Reno came into being in May, 1868.

 

Nevada is the World’s Third Largest Gold Producer

Reno named for Civil War Major General Jesse Lee Reno, continued to grow as a business and agricultural center and became the principal settlement on the transcontinental railroad between Sacramento and Salt Lake City. The Reno Arch was erected on Virginia Street in 1926 to promote the Transcontinental Highways Exposition of 1927. 

Legalized Gambling Reno took a leap when the state of Nevada legalized open-gambling and liberal divorce laws in 1931. The war years of the 1940s cemented Reno as the place to play for two decades.

Also, the presence of a main east-west rail line, the interstate highway system, favorable state tax climate, and relatively inexpensive land created good conditions for warehousing and distribution of goods. Reno also is an outdoor recreation destination, due to its close proximity to the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe and 18 ski resorts. Winter activities include snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling; international bike competitions are held in Lake Tahoe during the summer.

Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region

Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region

Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, visitors to Colorado Springs can enjoy commanding views of Pikes Peak from just about any part of town. The multiple recreational opportunities afforded by the nearby mountains include everything from hiking to taking in the breathtaking geological wonders at Garden of the Gods Park, Cave of the Winds and the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.

Colorado Springs has a Thriving Arts and Cultural Scene

History the area’s first inhabitants were American Indian people. The Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho and other tribes gathered at the base of Pikes Peak, near its abundant springs. During the 18^th Century both French and Spanish flags flew over the region. But with the Louisiana Purchase more Anglo-American explorers and settlers began to venture west. In 1859, Colorado Springs history is marked with the founding of Colorado City which became the first settlement in the Pikes Peak region. It was the territorial capitol for a short period and served as a supply camp for miners traveling to the mining camps west of Denver.

By 1871, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad facilitated visits to a Victorian spa resort town at the base of Pikes Peak. The stunning scenic beauty was not the only thing that attracted people to the area. The sunny conditions and dry, mild climate of Colorado Springs made these communities popular for people suffering from poor health, especially tuberculosis.

Gold was discovered on the western slope of Pikes Peak, one of the richest gold strikes in American history. Almost overnight, the Cripple Creek Mining District grew from an isolated cattle pasture to the home of more than 50,000 people. By the turn of the 19th century, Colorado Springs was called the city of millionaires.

Since the 1940s, Colorado Springs has been home to major military installations including Fort Carson, Peterson Air Force Base, the U.S. Space Command, NORAD, Schriever Air Force Base and the United States Air Force Academy.

Colorado Springs is a National Trust for Historic Preservation Distinctive Destination 

Colorado Springs was selected for its walkable historic areas, its commitment to sustainability and its natural attractions and ample recreational opportunities in the nearby Rocky Mountains. Activities range from family itineraries to educational, cultural and a wide range of outdoor programs: rafting, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding and fishing.

Planning Your Trip assumes uniquely local dimensions wherever you go; the activities that you, the visitor – local, or global –  select and irrespective of the length of your stay, are unique of the community you are visiting and rooted into the local economy, history and traditions.

Train Rides experience scenic beauty and historic travel aboard the Broadmoor's Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad and Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Food Tours enjoy culinary secrets in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs or Historic Manitou Springs at six diverse dining locations serving unique food and drink tastings.

Art Galleries and Shopping for over a century, artisans have been inspired by the amazing beauty of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. Local art can be found in one-of-a-kind boutiques, discount stores and world-famous chains.

Museums Step back in time and explore the Wild West at the Pioneers Museum or Outlaws and Lawmen Museum.  Enjoy the art and culture at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center.  A variety of experience ranging from space and aviation to natural history, railroads and ghost towns.

Sports Colorado Springs is home of the U.S. Olympic Committee and Training Center. The high altitude, pleasant climate and natural beauty make training or competing here a unique location for your team and sport.