Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

The Garden of the Gods Resort and Club originally opened as a summertime tennis club. Over the years, the resort has attracted many celebrities, including Walt Disney, John Wayne, and Gene Autry, among others. Today members of the country club and resort guests willing pay top dollar come for the upscale setting that overlooks the Garden of the Gods, and access to the 27-hole Kissing Camels Golf Course. Mule deer and rabbits often roam the property or visit the reflecting pool that sits on the resort’s well-manicured lawn.

The property's two-story blue and cream-colored painted buildings date back to the early 1950s and have a retro feel, but lodge-style interiors are stylish and modern. The entrance exudes a Southwestern vibe and common areas are decorated in American Indian artwork with exposed stone walls in lounge areas. It’s not surprising that the picturesque setting makes this resort a sought-after wedding destination, but unfortunately the events spoil the serene setting for some. Note that country club attire is required in many areas.

As the name suggests, this Colorado Springs property looks out over the famous Garden of the Gods landmark, which is a 15-minute drive away. The property is removed from the main road, so there aren’t any car noises. The resort also has views of Pikes Peak, and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is 20 minutes away by car. There are 27 holes of golf offered across the street at the Kissing Camels Golf Course. Attractions within 10 to 20 minutes by car include shopping at the Old Colorado City, the Ghost Town Museum, the U.S. Olympic Training Center, Miramont Castle Museum, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Horseback riding is offered at the Academy Riding Stables, a 10-minute drive away. The Colorado Springs Airport and the U.S. Air Force Academy are a 25-minute drive, while Denver takes an hour to reach and Boulder takes 90 minutes.

Rooms are chicly decorated, with wooden floors, gray furnishings, wingback chairs, granite-topped desks, and fireplaces. But what stands out are the picturesque views of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods from balconies or patios. On request, turndown service is offered. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, bathrobes, irons, hairdryers, and safes. Guests can request DVD players and board games. All but 13 of the 69 units have been renovated; the South Patio King and Double Rooms have original designs. Suites have wet bars, sitting areas, and powder rooms, and the North Club Deluxe Suites offer larger seating areas with sectionals. One- and Two-Bedroom Suites have kitchens, dining areas, and up to three balconies. With lovely wooden designs, bathrooms are large and include vanity areas and most have shower/tub combos.

The resort’s facilities are exceptional, largely because of the property's gorgeous views of Pikes Peak and the red rock formations. Amenities include everything from tennis lessons on one of the 11 outdoor or two seasonal indoor courts, guided runs, yoga, hikes, spinning classes, and a modern gym with floor-to-ceiling windows. Steam rooms are available and the full-service spa offers a range of treatments, a hot tub, and salon services. The year-round pool is heated and has great views with lounge chairs for sunbathing. There's also a children's splash pad and a recreation center with a kids’ club.

The stylish Club Dining Room is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and has beautiful views. Cocktails are offered in the Fireside Lounge, which also has great views. The Kissing Camels Grille overlooks the 27-hole golf course. Private events and weddings are often held on-site. Wi-Fi and parking are both free, and valet parking is included in the resort fee, which is automatically tacked on to all bills.