Pikes Peak Summit Visitors Center

Perched at 14,115 feet above sea level, the Pikes Peak Summit Visitors Center is the highest visitor center in the United States and a crown jewel of Colorado tourism.

Opened in June 2021, this state-of-the-art facility replaced the aging 1960s-era Summit House, offering a modern, immersive experience that honors the majesty of “America’s Mountain”.

Spanning 38,000 square feet, the center was designed with sustainability and accessibility at its core. It meets the rigorous standards of the Living Building Challenge and is pursuing LEED Platinum certification, making it one of the most environmentally advanced buildings in the country. Its architecture blends seamlessly into the rugged alpine terrain, with indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits that explore the mountain’s geology, climate, and cultural significance.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from ADA-accessible walkways, explore interactive multimedia galleries, and indulge in the world-famous Pikes Peak donuts—the only ones made at over 14,000 feet. The facility also features a gift shop, dining hall, and outdoor terrace, all designed to enhance the summit experience.

The project was a collaborative effort involving the City of Colorado Springs, RTA Architects, GWWO, and numerous stakeholders. It has earned multiple awards for design excellence, sustainability, and construction innovation.

Whether arriving by car, cog railway, or hiking the Barr Trail, the Pikes Peak Summit Visitors Center offers an unforgettable encounter with one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West.

Awards:
AIA Colorado Award of Merit, AIA Maryland, and AIA Baltimore