Once a booming mining town, Colorado Springs now leads the nation as one of the top places for technology companies to settle. Picturesque Pikes Peak , at 14,110 feet, is the city's backdrop and beckons your attention. The towering Rocky Mountains run north and south of the city, with high plains to the east giving it a vast, open feeling.

West

For charming window-shopping stroll along Colorado Avenue where historic buildings have become beautifully decorated contemporary shops. Art galleries are plentiful, many of which are Southwest and Indian themed and pay tribute to the area's cultural heritage. Break from shopping to dine at Meadow Muffins . Finish with a free tour of the nationally-acclaimed Van Briggle Art Pottery , whose work appears in some of the world's finest art galleries.

Manitou Springs

Serving as the gateway to such popular attractions as the Garden of the Gods , Cave of the Winds and the majestic Pikes Peak , everyone eventually passes through Manitou Springs. Stroll through dozens of quaint shops like the Antique Emporium . Stop for a healthful lunch at Adam's Mountain Cafe before heading up to tour Miramont Castle .

Southwest/Broadmoor Area

Long-standing million dollar estates mix with new homes along the foothills and slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, establishing this as the most elite area of town. The Broadmoor Hotel anchors this neighborhood, lending historic charm and beauty to the community. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun are perched atop this area and snake through the mountainside offering awesome city views. Seven Falls , located just beyond the Broadmoor Hotel , is a natural wonder. Drive right up to the falls, or if you are more adventurous, hike up Cutler Trail to get a more private view.

Central/Downtown

The most noticeable attribute of the downtown area is its lack of billboards and skyscrapers cluttering the skyline, giving it a clean, vibrant look. Shop for vintage clothing or a Rolex watch at any of the many quaint shops. Rack 'em up and slam 'em back at Phantom Canyon Brewing Company , or party into the night at funky Rum Bay or art deco Ritz Grill . Martinis and cigars are on the menu at MacKenzie's Chop House . Local culture can be found at the McAllister House Museum or for a more sophisticated exhibit visit the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center .

North

Far north of town, situated on rolling hills, is the prestigious United States Air Force Academy (USAF). Catch a USAF football game at Falcon Stadium and you might get treated to an exciting fly-over by Air Force jets in tight formation. Follow up the day with a visit to the Western Museum of Mining , just east of the Academy.

Northwest

A mixture of upper class residences splashed with strip centers and an abundance of eclectic restaurants situated near the picturesque Rocky Mountains make this a highly desirable place to live. Enjoy a Victorian tea and tour at the historic Glen Eyrie Castle , quietly nestled in the foothills. For a more rowdy evening, stomp in at the Flying W Chuckwagon for great food and Old West entertainment.

Northeast

This area blends forested parks with fabulous shopping and dining. Have time for a quick hike? Palmer Park offers several easy trails with fabulous views and numerous picnic tables. For a day's worth of shopping wander over to the two-level Citadel Mall . Nearby Zugspitze serves the city's finest international gourmet lunches. Afterwards, shop in its remarkable gourmet store for hard-to-find items.

East/Southeast

Hills covered with newly developed middle-class neighborhoods run north to south for miles. See historic aircraft, missiles and exhibits at the Peterson Air & Space Museum , located on Peterson Air Force Base. Catch a flick at the newly built IMAX Theater, with 16 movies to choose from. During the summer it is hot dogs, peanuts and baseball at Sky Sox Stadium .

Whether here on business or a well-deserved vacation, be sure to get out and behold the view of Pikes Peak that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful." Rest assured, the city with small town charm and big natural beauty will bring you back again and again.