Hotel Polaris, Ford Amphitheater anchor growing entertainment, recreation hub

Story and photos by Brianna Corrine

The recent opening of Hotel Polaris at The U.S. Air Force Academy brings about new opportunities to indulge in a staycation in northern Colorado Springs. As the second largest hotel in the city, the location and its neighboring entertainment venues offer plenty of options for some R&R.

Christened on a sunny day last fall — the kind of day that gliders are seen coasting above the Academy — the new destination hotel at the entrance to the Air Force Academy features state-of-the-art amenities and excellent in-house dining choices.

With several bars and restaurants offering unrivaled views, flight simulators that provide guests with an immersive “real-life pilot experience,” and a luxurious spa and fitness center - it would be easy to stay put for an extended stay.

The carefully crafted space is appealing on all fronts, with references to the Air Force Academy’s legacy and culture evident throughout the clever design choices. According to Kevin Barosso, the director of sales and marketing at Hotel Polaris, the space is intended to be a “gathering place for folks” who want to enjoy the area.

Barosso says, “It provides a place for people to go and enjoy the different food and beverage outlets,” regardless of whether visitors are connected with the Air Force. During home football games the hotel is expected to be wildly popular, as well as during the beginning of classes in the fall and at graduation.

“If you’re looking to do a staycation, come spend some time in the spa, use the flight simulators, go for a hike on the Santa Fe trail, or tour the Academy -- there’s just a lot of really nice things to do here,” Barosso points out.

Beyond the hotel that is second largest to The Broadmoor, there are plenty of entertainment options in the surrounding area to spend time unwinding with family and friends.

North Colorado Springs entertainment options

Persons of all ages with a plethora of interests can find something to enjoy — all within about 10 minutes of Hotel Polaris along I-25.

For music lovers, Ford Amphitheater offers itself as the perfect venue to catch a show while looking out toward the Air Force Academy as the sun goes down.

Some visitors have described the venue as a small Fiddler’s Green with a great atmosphere. Since opening in early 2024, it has hosted artists OneRepublic, Cage the Elephant and John Fogerty, and is scheduling bands for this year. Expect to see Leon Bridges in May, or if you’re a classic rock fan, schedule your weekend trip for June to see Styx and Kevin Cronin from REO Speedwagon.

For a more intimate musical experience, visit the Phil Long Music Hall at Bourbon Brothers, formerly known as the Boot Barn Music Hall. The venue hosts a range of acts and events in their grand space, such as music and comedy, post-show bashes, and more.

Speaking of Bourbon Brothers, the Colorado-based smokehouse and tavern is one of several spots for the foodies in your group. From a delectable banana pudding to a range of hearty sandwiches and barbecue options, there are many choices available. With southern homestyle cooking as their foundation, Bourbon Brothers likes to elevate classic American staples.

Among other dining options in the area, Notes Eatery offers a unique environment to catch a bite before a concert. The space is inviting to music fans because the walls are adorned with various artists that have entertained Coloradans. The restaurant can be rented for private events, and they offer a jazz brunch buffet on the weekends, so you can enjoy a meal while being treated to a performance by local artists.

For those with time for additional entertainment, the needs of all ages can be met.

• Topgolf is just across I-25 from Hotel Polaris.

• Overdrive Raceway features electric go karts that you can race on two separate tracks. Bites and beverages are also available.

• Air City 360 is an over-the-top in-door adventure park for kids that includes air trampolines, zip lines, dodge ball and an arcade.

• And nearby iFly gives adventurers a chance to skydive at the in-door facility.

• And of course, for those inclined to get out and enjoy nature, there are great trails near the Air Force Academy. Look for the New Santa Fe Trail, Falcon Trail Loop, or Eagle’s Peak Trail.