Colorado Springs, situated on Monument and Fountain creeks in central Colorado, serves as the seat of
El Paso County.
In 1859, the town of El Dorado was established on Fountain Creek by gold miners. The city was renamed after a mineral spring at nearby Manitou Springs, six miles west.
Today Colorado Springs, population of around 358,400, is home to major computer and electronic manufacturers as well as an important military center - Peterson, Falcon and Cheyenne Mountain air force bases, as well as Fort Carson, are located nearby.
The city is also a year-round tourist destination and health resort that attracts visitors from around the country. There are about 30 major cultural attractions within the city, including Pikes Peak/Pike National Forest, Garden of the Gods, Seven Falls, and the World Figure Skating Museum. Also of interest is the Old Colorado City Historic District between 24th and 27th streets.
Colorado Springs is part of the Colorado Springs, Colorado metro area.
