Nestled in the foothills of the scenic Rocky Mountains, the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs is a great way to explore both the history of this fine institution and the history of aviation in general. The Academy is open for both guided public tours and exploring on your own. Here you’ll take a glimpse into the life of an Air Force cadet while learning more about the traditions of this impressive campus.

Here’s what you should put on your Colorado Springs itinerary so you make the most of your visit to this national gem to celebrate the 1947 founding of the U.S. Air Force.

Indoor Areas

The iconic USAFA Chapel

The Barry Goldwater Visitor Center is the perfect spot to start your tour of the USAFA. Here you can acquaint yourself with the rich history of this training academy. The many exhibits and films will enhance your learning experience as you tour the grounds. And you really can’t visit the USAFA without a trip to the iconic Cadet Chapel. This stunning piece of architecture is the centerpiece of the campus, boasting rising spires and gorgeous stained glass windows.

Be sure to check out the schedule of events at the multipurpose Arnold Hall venue. The hall plays host to a number of shows, concerts, lectures, and more. While in the area, be sure to step inside the Polaris Hall and then out into its lovely outdoor courtyard. A stop at the gift shop is the ideal ending to your visit, providing the chance to purchase cool USAFA souvenirs and merchandise.

Outdoor Areas to Explore at the USAFA

Once you’ve toured the indoor venues of the campus, you’ll want to explore its picturesque outdoor settings. The Academy Airfield Overlook offers sweeping views of the Academy’s training airfield. Aviation enthusiasts in particular will delight in the chance to see the cadets practice their skills with these complex pieces of aircraft. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for a USAFA football game, you might want to pay a visit to Falcon Stadium to see the team in action. The Academy competes in a variety of other sports that are open to spectators.

With the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in the distance, the USAFA is also a great place to take in the splendor of Mother Nature. The Falcon hiking trail delivers amazing views of Pikes Peak towering in the distance. The trail is also a fun place to go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing during the winter months. Lastly, the Cadet Area is also a popular spot for visitors to the USAFA. You can check out the various academic buildings, athletics facilities, and living quarters when planning your trip to this region.

While in Colorado Springs

Downtown Colorado Springs

Of course, the USAFA is not the only interesting aviation site to check out when you’re visiting the Colorado Springs area. The National Museum of World War II Aviation makes a good complement to a trip to the USAFA. Dedicated to educating the public about the importance of aviation during the second World War, this museum houses a vast collection of restored aircraft from this time period along with exhibits that highlight the role of the U.S. Air Force during some key battles.

Next up on your itinerary should be a visit to the Peterson Air and Space Museum, located near the Air Force base of the same name. Cap off your trip with a visit to Memorial Park, a popular place for outdoor recreation activities in Colorado Springs. Staying with the theme of the tour, the park also includes several monuments and memorials that honor the sacrifices made by members of the military. A stop at this park is a nice way to pay your respects to all those who have served.

Have you ever been to Colorado Spring to explore aviation? Tell us about it in the comments below!