Living in the Broadmoor: Where Old Money Meets Modern Luxury in Colorado Springs

When people think about luxury real estate in Colorado Springs, they often picture enormous new homes, impressive kitchens, and three-car garages.

But there's another kind of luxury in Colorado Springs. One that's been here for more than a century.

Picture historic mansions surrounded by mature trees, winding driveways leading to private estates, and extraordinary architecture that reflects generations of history.

Now imagine those properties sharing the same mountainside with spectacular contemporary homes featuring walls of glass, panoramic views, and modern mountain design.

Welcome to the Broadmoor and Southwest Colorado Springs.

This is where some of the city's most established luxury neighborhoods meet an entirely new generation of high-end homes.

But living in the Broadmoor area isn't just about owning an impressive property. It's about the history, the scenery, the lifestyle, and understanding what makes this part of Colorado Springs so different.

Before you start shopping for homes here, there are a few things worth knowing.

 

1. How the Broadmoor Became One of Colorado Springs' Most Prestigious Areas

To understand the Broadmoor real estate market today, you have to understand a little of its history.

Colorado Springs was founded in 1871 and quickly attracted entrepreneurs, investors, and people interested in the region's mountain climate.

But one man had an especially significant influence on the development of Southwest Colorado Springs: Spencer Penrose.

Spencer Penrose and the Beginning of the Broadmoor

Penrose made his fortune in mining, and he and his wife, Julie, envisioned creating something extraordinary in the foothills of Cheyenne Mountain.

In 1918, the Broadmoor Hotel opened.

This wasn't simply another place for travelers to stay. It was designed as a luxury destination that would attract prominent business leaders, wealthy visitors, and influential people from across the country.

Penrose's influence extended well beyond the hotel. He was involved in developing the area's golf facilities, the road up Pikes Peak, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

How That History Shaped the Neighborhood

When a world-class resort develops in a beautiful location, residential development often follows.

Over time, impressive estates and established neighborhoods grew throughout the surrounding area.

Unlike newer master-planned communities in places like Falcon, Peyton, or northern Colorado Springs, much of the Broadmoor area developed over generations rather than during a single building boom.

That history is still visible today.

You'll find properties with distinctive architecture, mature landscaping, and character that's difficult to replicate in a brand-new development.

For buyers who appreciate established neighborhoods, that's a major part of the appeal.

2. Broadmoor Luxury Homes: Historic Estates Meet Modern Mountain Architecture

One of the most interesting things about Southwest Colorado Springs real estate is that luxury doesn't look the same from one street to the next.

In some neighborhoods, luxury means history and craftsmanship.

In others, it means contemporary architecture and dramatic mountain views.

Historic Broadmoor Homes

Drive through some of the older Broadmoor neighborhoods, and you'll encounter architectural styles that are increasingly uncommon in newer developments.

These can include:

• Tudor-style homes with distinctive rooflines and detailed exteriors

• Mediterranean-inspired estates with courtyards and elegant architectural features

• Traditional brick residences surrounded by established landscaping

• Custom homes with long driveways, substantial lots, and mature trees

And here's something buyers sometimes overlook.

A home that appears relatively modest from the street may have a spectacular interior, beautiful mountain views, or a surprisingly large property behind it.

In these neighborhoods, curb appeal doesn't always tell the whole story.

Contemporary Luxury Homes in the Foothills

Move farther into the foothills, and the architecture begins to change.

Communities such as the Broadmoor Resort Community offer another interpretation of luxury living.

Instead of traditional historic architecture, you may find homes featuring expansive windows, dramatic outdoor living spaces, and designs built around the surrounding terrain.

Some are positioned to take advantage of mountain scenery, while others emphasize privacy and a connection to the natural landscape.

The difference isn't necessarily old versus better or new versus better. It's about the lifestyle and property characteristics you value.

Not Every Broadmoor-Area Home Is a Mansion

It's also important to understand that Southwest Colorado Springs isn't exclusively made up of multimillion-dollar estates.

The broader area includes traditional single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and established residential communities at different price points.

That gives buyers more options than they might expect.

If you're comparing neighborhoods throughout the region, our guide to 5 Colorado Springs neighborhoods to research before buying explains why location, housing style, and long-term costs deserve as much attention as the listing price.

3. Golf, Country Clubs, and the Broadmoor Lifestyle

You can't talk about living near the Broadmoor without mentioning golf.

The Broadmoor Golf Club is one of the area's most recognizable features, with a history dating back to 1918.

Its original course was designed by renowned golf architect Donald Ross, and Robert Trent Jones later contributed to the resort's golf facilities.

Over the years, the Broadmoor has hosted major golf championships, including the 2025 U.S. Senior Open.

For golf enthusiasts, having such an established destination nearby can be a significant lifestyle advantage.

The southwest part of the city also offers other golf opportunities, including the course at Cheyenne Mountain Conference Resort.

Does Living Near the Broadmoor Give You Golf Access?

Not automatically.

This is an important distinction for anyone considering a home near the resort.

Living in the surrounding neighborhoods doesn't mean you automatically receive membership or access to the Broadmoor's golf facilities.

Golf access is generally available through qualifying resort stays and golf club memberships, subject to the resort's policies.

Before purchasing a property specifically for golf access, make sure you understand the membership requirements and available privileges.

More Than Just Golf

Even if you never pick up a golf club, the Broadmoor area offers an established resort atmosphere.

Beautiful grounds, distinctive architecture, restaurants, and nearby recreational opportunities all contribute to the experience.

It's a part of Colorado Springs where many of the amenities are already in place.

4. Living Next to Cheyenne Mountain: Trails, Wildlife, and Incredible Scenery

For many residents, the greatest luxury in Southwest Colorado Springs isn't the golf courses or the historic homes.

It's the mountains.

Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning, grabbing your coffee, and heading out for a hike without having to drive across the entire city.

That's one of the advantages of living near Cheyenne Mountain.

North Cheyenne Canyon Park

North Cheyenne Canyon Park offers approximately 1,600 acres of mountain scenery and outdoor recreation.

Popular destinations include the Columbine Trail and Helen Hunt Falls.

The canyon offers opportunities to experience the foothills, wooded landscapes, and mountain scenery that make Colorado Springs so distinctive.

Stratton Open Space

Stratton Open Space adds approximately 318 acres of trails, natural habitat, and recreational opportunities.

It's another reason the surrounding neighborhoods appeal to buyers who want easy access to the outdoors.

Farther south, Cheyenne Mountain State Park provides additional opportunities for hiking and exploring.

The Reality of Living Close to Nature

Of course, mountain living comes with responsibilities.

Depending on the property's location, wildlife encounters may include deer, bears, and other animals.

Homes surrounded by trees or located against the foothills also require careful consideration of wildfire exposure.

Before purchasing a property, evaluate vegetation management, defensible space, property access, and insurance availability.

The scenery is a tremendous advantage, but it's important to understand what maintaining a property in this environment involves.

5. Cheyenne Mountain School District 12: What Homebuyers Should Know

For households considering school options, Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 is another important part of the Broadmoor-area conversation.

District 12 has a longstanding reputation for its academic programs and is frequently researched by families relocating to Colorado Springs.

However, there's a detail buyers shouldn't overlook.

Not every property with a Broadmoor-area address is located within Cheyenne Mountain School District 12.

Colorado School Choice Doesn't Guarantee Admission

Colorado offers public school choice, allowing families to apply for enrollment outside their assigned school district.

But approval depends on available space and applicable enrollment policies.

That means purchasing a home outside District 12 and planning to apply for admission isn't the same as purchasing a property assigned to the district.

Verify School Boundaries Before Buying

If school assignment matters to your household, verify the current boundaries and assigned schools for the specific property before making a purchase decision.

Don't rely on the neighborhood name, ZIP code, or a real estate listing alone.

And remember, Southwest Colorado Springs includes homes served by other school districts as well.

The best choice depends on your household's educational priorities, budget, commute, and overall lifestyle.

For a broader look at the factors that matter when relocating, read our guide to 10 things you need to know before moving to Colorado Springs.

6. Restaurants, Entertainment, and Everyday Life in Southwest Colorado Springs

One of the advantages of living in an established part of town is that the restaurants, gathering places, and local attractions have already developed their own character.

Southwest Colorado Springs offers several destinations that make the area especially interesting.

The Golden Bee

The Golden Bee is one of the Broadmoor's most recognizable dining experiences.

This English-style pub is known for its traditional atmosphere and its distinctive embroidered bee tradition.

It's the kind of place that offers something different from a typical restaurant outing.

Ivywild School

Ivywild School is another example of what makes the older parts of Colorado Springs interesting.

Once an elementary school, the building has been transformed into a gathering place featuring food, drinks, and community spaces.

Rather than replacing the historic building with something entirely new, its redevelopment preserved much of the original character.

It's a great example of how historic architecture can find a new purpose.

An Established Local Lifestyle

Beyond these destinations, Southwest Colorado Springs includes neighborhood restaurants, independent businesses, and gathering places that have served the community for years.

For buyers who prefer established surroundings rather than waiting for new commercial development, that can be an appealing difference.

7. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Seven Falls, and Local Attractions

Living near the Broadmoor also means being close to some of Colorado Springs' most recognizable attractions.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Established by Spencer Penrose in 1926, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is built directly into the mountainside.

Its location and design make it a distinctive experience for residents and visitors.

For households that frequently entertain out-of-town guests, having a major attraction nearby can be especially convenient.

Seven Falls

Seven Falls is another well-known destination in the area.

The waterfalls and surrounding mountain setting provide a memorable experience for visitors exploring Colorado Springs.

Combined with nearby parks, trails, and resort amenities, these attractions offer plenty of ways to spend a weekend without traveling far from home.

8. What to Know Before Buying a Home in the Broadmoor Area

This is where understanding the local real estate market becomes especially important.

A beautiful home in Southwest Colorado Springs can be an excellent purchase, but the property details deserve careful evaluation.

Historic Homes Can Have Expensive Maintenance Needs

Older luxury homes often offer extraordinary craftsmanship and architectural details.

However, buyers should investigate the condition of major systems, including plumbing, electrical components, windows, heating, and roofing.

An impressive historic estate may require a very different maintenance budget from a newer home.

It's important to understand both the purchase price and the likely ongoing expenses.

Mountainside Homes Require Additional Evaluation

Contemporary homes built into the foothills present different considerations.

Pay particular attention to drainage, grading, retaining walls, driveway access, and the way the property was constructed around the terrain.

A dramatic hillside setting can create incredible views, but it can also introduce maintenance challenges.

And don't forget Colorado winters.

A steep, north-facing driveway that seems perfectly manageable in July may be much more challenging when snow and ice arrive in January.

Consider Insurance and Wildfire Exposure

Homes near wooded areas and the foothills may have additional insurance considerations.

Before purchasing, discuss property-specific coverage availability, premiums, and wildfire-related requirements with an insurance professional.

Don't wait until the final stages of a transaction to discover that insurance will cost substantially more than expected.

Evaluate Your Daily Commute

Southwest Colorado Springs can be convenient for people working near downtown or in other parts of the city's southern and central areas.

However, a commute to Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, or northeastern employment centers may require more planning.

Try driving the route during the times you'd actually be commuting.

A beautiful property becomes much less convenient if your daily travel doesn't work for your schedule.

Understand the Differences Between Neighborhoods

The historic Broadmoor neighborhoods, the Broadmoor Resort Community, foothill properties, and traditional residential areas throughout Southwest Colorado Springs aren't interchangeable.

They can offer very different combinations of lot size, architecture, views, access, maintenance, and price.

Two buyers with identical budgets could find completely different homes depending on which features they prioritize.

Our Colorado Springs neighborhood checklist is a helpful starting point for evaluating everything surrounding a property, not just the house itself.

9. Is the Broadmoor the Right Place to Live in Colorado Springs?

The answer depends on what you're looking for.

Southwest Colorado Springs offers a particularly interesting combination of historic architecture, mountain scenery, established neighborhoods, resort amenities, and outdoor recreation.

But it isn't the only option for buyers who want an exceptional Colorado lifestyle.

Someone looking for more land might also consider Black Forest.

A buyer prioritizing newer construction could explore communities farther north or east.

Others might compare Monument, Palmer Lake, Woodland Park, or even communities toward Larkspur and Pueblo West, depending on their priorities.

The important thing is understanding what you're getting for your money.

If you appreciate historic character, distinctive architecture, and established surroundings, the Broadmoor area deserves a closer look.

If your priorities are newer construction, a particular commute, or a different property layout, another Colorado Springs neighborhood may be a better fit.

There's no single definition of luxury that works for everyone.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About Living in the Broadmoor

Is the Broadmoor one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Colorado Springs?

The Broadmoor area contains some of Colorado Springs' most distinctive and high-value residential properties, including historic estates and contemporary mountain homes. However, prices vary significantly throughout Southwest Colorado Springs, and not every property is a luxury estate.

Is the Broadmoor a good place to live?

The Broadmoor area can be an excellent fit for buyers who appreciate established neighborhoods, mountain scenery, historic architecture, and convenient access to outdoor recreation. However, the right location depends on your budget, commute, property preferences, and lifestyle.

Are there newer luxury homes near the Broadmoor?

Yes. Although the area is known for historic homes, newer custom properties can be found in foothill communities, including the Broadmoor Resort Community. These homes often feature contemporary architecture, expansive windows, and designs that emphasize mountain views.

What school district serves the Broadmoor area?

Many properties are located within Cheyenne Mountain School District 12, but not all surrounding neighborhoods fall within its boundaries. Buyers should verify school assignments for each specific address rather than assuming every Broadmoor-area property is assigned to District 12.

Can Broadmoor residents use the golf course?

Living near the Broadmoor doesn't automatically provide access to its golf courses. Access is generally available to registered resort guests and golf club members under the resort's current policies. Buyers interested in golf should investigate membership requirements before purchasing.

What should I know before buying an older Broadmoor home?

Historic homes may require additional maintenance or updates to plumbing, electrical systems, windows, roofing, and other components. Buyers should also evaluate the property's terrain, drainage, insurance requirements, and long-term maintenance expenses before making an offer.

Conclusion: Where Colorado Springs History Meets Modern Luxury

There's a reason the Broadmoor and Southwest Colorado Springs have remained desirable for generations.

Few areas offer quite the same combination of historic estates, modern mountain architecture, world-class golf, established restaurants, beautiful parks, and access to the foothills.

But what makes this part of Colorado Springs especially interesting is how much variety exists within a relatively small geographic area.

You might find a century-old home surrounded by mature trees just minutes from a contemporary property built into the mountainside.

Both can offer an extraordinary lifestyle, but they're very different ownership experiences.

And that's why choosing the right property matters just as much as choosing the right neighborhood.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Southwest Colorado Springs?

Whether you're exploring historic Broadmoor estates, contemporary luxury homes near Cheyenne Mountain, or established neighborhoods throughout Southwest Colorado Springs, The Peña Team can help you understand your options.

With nearly three decades of local real estate experience, Tulio Peña and The Peña Team understand that finding the right home means looking beyond the listing photos.

We'll help you evaluate the neighborhood, property condition, lifestyle, and long-term considerations so you can make an informed decision.

Ready to explore Broadmoor Colorado Springs real estate?

Contact The Peña Team:

Phone: (719) 204-5246
Email: homes@thepenateam.com
Website: https://thepenateam.com

Your ideal Colorado Springs lifestyle starts with finding the right place to call home.