The History of Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Located just minutes from Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a hands-on look at ancient architecture and the culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. More than 700 years ago, skilled builders crafted these sandstone structures, which later faced the threat of looting and erosion. In the early 1900s, preservationists carefully dismantled the dwellings, moving them stone by stone from McElmo Canyon near Mesa Verde. They reconstructed them in Manitou Springs using traditional techniques, honoring the craftsmanship of the original builders.

Although the dwellings do not stand in their original location, they now provide visitors with a rare opportunity to walk through an authentic recreation of an ancient community. Every wall, doorway, and room reflects the ingenuity, cooperation, and resilience of the Native peoples of the Southwest, serving as both an educational resource and a lasting tribute to their enduring legacy.

Our Last-Minute Adventure

We hadn’t planned to visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings during our Colorado trip. Our schedule was already full of activities, scenic drives, and must-see landmarks. But while we admired the dramatic beauty of the Garden of the Gods, my son pulled out his phone and started searching for nearby attractions. Within minutes, he found the Manitou Cliff Dwellings and began reading aloud about their history, their relocation for preservation, and the chance to actually step inside the ancient rooms. His excitement was immediate and contagious. Since the site was only a short drive away, we decided on a spontaneous detour.

Reaching the dwellings proved more challenging than expected. The site isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the paths include many uneven stone steps and narrow passageways. For my son, who faces ongoing health challenges, the climb could have been daunting. Instead, it seemed to spark his determination. He made his way around the site, pausing only to read the signs, study the structures, or run his hands along the weathered walls. His eyes lit up as he peered into dim rooms and imagined the lives of the people who once called them home.

I found myself captivated less by the historical facts and more by watching him fully present in the moment. His curiosity, focus, and resilience turned a brief, unplanned stop into one of the trip’s most meaningful experiences. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected turns, the detours we never intended to take but are so grateful we did.

What You’ll See at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings

You can walk through the dwellings themselves, one of the most unique aspects of this attraction. Step into the rooms, touch the walls, and experience firsthand how the Ancestral Puebloans lived. Unlike many historical sites that keep you behind barriers, this one invites you to interact with history up close.

The site also features a museum filled with ancient artifacts, pottery, tools, and informational displays. Explore the exhibits to learn about the people who originally inhabited the cliff dwellings and discover how their culture, farming practices, and spiritual beliefs shaped the Southwest.

Attached to the museum is a large gift shop where you’ll find locally inspired items, Native American-style crafts, books, and souvenirs. There’s also a small café on-site, though it was closed during our visit.

Is It Worth Visiting the Manitou Cliff Dwellings?

Absolutely. These particular structures were relocated for preservation, but they still offer remarkable educational value and an immersive experience that makes the Manitou Cliff Dwellings a worthwhile stop. Families, history enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by Indigenous culture or early Southwestern architecture can explore the site while gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.

Keep accessibility in mind as you plan your visit. You’ll climb many stairs, navigate uneven terrain, and move through narrow passageways. These features add to the authenticity but may challenge some visitors.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Wear sturdy shoes. The steps and paths are uneven and can be slick if it’s wet.
Bring water. There isn’t a lot of shade, and you’ll be climbing.
Not wheelchair accessible. This location includes multiple sets of stairs and tight spaces.
Allow 1–2 hours. You can take your time exploring both the dwellings and the museum.
Check café hours. If you’re hoping to grab a snack or lunch, make sure the café is open.
Great stop with kids. It’s a hands-on site and offers educational fun.
Visit earlier in the day. It can get crowded and warm in the afternoon.

A spontaneous stop turned into one of the most memorable moments of our Colorado Springs trip. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a powerful reminder of how resilient and resourceful the Ancestral Puebloans were—and how the best adventures often come from unplanned detours.

As tempting as it is, you can’t actually curl up for the night inside the Manitou Cliff Dwellings (the museum staff would notice). But lucky for you, Colorado Springs is overflowing with places that do welcome overnight guests. Think historic inns with wraparound porches, boutique hotels with rooftop mountain views, and cabins where the scent of pine greets you before the coffee does. No matter where you hang your hat, you’re just a short drive from ancient architecture, garden-sized gods, and trails that lead to “how is this real?” moments. Sleeping in the cliff dwellings? No. Sleeping somewhere unforgettable? Absolutely. Scan our QR code to find your favorite.