Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun - An image of Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun as seen from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado.
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Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun

4.8
·602 reviews·Colorado Springs, United States

A historic 1937 tower on Cheyenne Mountain offering sweeping panoramic views of Colorado Springs and beyond.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun - An image of Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun as seen from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado.

Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1937 tower on Cheyenne Mountain offering sweeping panoramic views of Colorado Springs and beyond.

4.8
(602 reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a sweet story behind this historical mountainside tower."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive from the Zoo

Access the shrine via a short drive from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Zoo ticket often includes shrine access.

👟 Climb to the Top

Enjoy the 94 steps for incredible views from the summit. It's a rewarding climb!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding Pikes Peak region.

Historical Shrine Architecture

Historical Shrine Architecture

Main Tower

Admire the 1937 Art Deco-inspired tower, a tribute to the beloved humorist Will Rogers.

Chapel and Burial Site

Chapel and Burial Site

Chapel

Discover the serene chapel, the final resting place for Spencer and Julie Penrose.

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Planning Your Visit

Access via Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is best accessed by driving up from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. A zoo ticket often grants access to the shrine, making it a convenient add-on to your visit. Plan for the drive up the mountain.

Timing Your Visit for Views

While the shrine offers panoramic views year-round, consider visiting during clear weather for the best experience. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, stunning views
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear weather days
Why
Maximizes breathtaking vistas
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever been up to the Will Rogers Shrine?! #coloradosprings #willrogersshrine #cheyennemountain #cheyennemountainzoo #denvermom #denverfamily #denver #denveractivities #colorado #boymom
@duhfamily
4.2K likes • 131.2K views

🚗 Drive from the Zoo

Access the shrine via a short drive from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Zoo ticket often includes shrine access. Reddit

👟 Climb to the Top

Enjoy the 94 steps for incredible views from the summit. It's a rewarding climb! Reddit

#coloradosprings #willrogersshrineofthesun #travelintheus #colorado
@yessicasalome0
32 likes • 758 views
📍Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun Colorado Springs, CO Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, an operating legacy of El Pomar Foundation, is located on the side of Cheyenne Mountain at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. Just above the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, it provides an impressive panoramic view of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Spencer and Julie Penrose, founders of El Pomar Foundation, commi...
musingsofayana
16 likes • 472 views

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Colorado Springs. Instagram

📜 Learn the History

Explore the mini-museum and learn the sweet story behind the shrine. Reddit

The views from the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun never cease to amaze. Plan your visit today at the link in our bio. Thank you to NBC and their recent coverage of the US Senior Open for such spectacular drone footage! It so perfectly captures the majesty of this amazing structure built by Spencer Penrose in 1937.
el_pomar
14 likes • 345 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive from the Zoo

Access the shrine via a short drive from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Zoo ticket often includes shrine access. Reddit

👟 Climb to the Top

Enjoy the 94 steps for incredible views from the summit. It's a rewarding climb! Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots of Colorado Springs. Instagram

📜 Learn the History

Explore the mini-museum and learn the sweet story behind the shrine. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(602 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun for its breathtaking panoramic views and historical significance. The connection to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo makes it an easy and worthwhile addition to a day trip. Some note the climb to the top, while rewarding, might be a consideration for those with mobility issues.

"A great historical location. Great place to see the valley down below. This has so much history. More than what I know. Beautiful location. Nice staircase up to the top. You can fit about 6 people at the top without being crowded out. And a lower location about 2 floors down. A total of 94 steps. 70 feet above the ground at a elevation of 7,710 feet."

Robert Herrera

"Such a beautiful place with breathtaking views. The story that’s behind the building is just super sweet. Glad we were able to explore the whole building!"

Sweetie

"A beautiful mountainside tower overlooking town. The driver was very informative and nice to chat with. If you're planning a trip to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, it's worth checking out!"

Ryan Buck

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Rich historical context
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is by driving up from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Your zoo admission often covers access to the shrine, making it a convenient addition to your visit. The drive itself offers scenic mountain views. Reddit

While you can drive to the shrine, some visitors participate in events like the 'Walk Run to the Shrine,' which involves a significant climb. For general access, driving from the zoo is recommended. Instagram

Walking directly to the shrine from Colorado Springs is not a typical or recommended route due to the distance and elevation gain. Access is primarily via the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Reddit

From the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo entrance, follow the signs for the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. The road winds up the mountainside, offering increasingly impressive views as you ascend. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, typically near the entrance and the mini-museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, access to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is included with your admission to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. It's advisable to confirm this when purchasing your zoo tickets. Reddit

The operating hours for the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun usually align with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's hours. It's best to check the zoo's official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Typically, there is no separate fee for the shrine if you have a valid Cheyenne Mountain Zoo ticket. It's considered a bonus attraction. Reddit

While it's possible to drive up, access is often tied to zoo admission. It's recommended to plan your visit in conjunction with the zoo to ensure entry. Reddit

The shrine occasionally hosts events, and the groundskeeper may offer historical insights. Check the El Pomar Foundation or Cheyenne Mountain Zoo websites for any scheduled activities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains, perfect for sweeping landscape shots. The shrine's architecture itself is also very photogenic. Instagram

Drone footage has been captured and shared, showcasing the majestic structure and its surroundings. However, always check local regulations and any posted restrictions before flying a drone. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the shrine, including the observation decks and the chapel. Be mindful of any posted signs regarding photography restrictions. Reddit

Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide beautiful, soft lighting for both the shrine's architecture and the expansive views. Clear mornings also offer excellent visibility. Instagram

Don't miss the view from the very top, looking out over the valley. The staircase leading up also provides a unique photographic perspective. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Will Rogers was a beloved American humorist, actor, and social commentator. The shrine was built in 1937 by his friend Spencer Penrose as a tribute to Rogers after his tragic death in an airplane crash. Instagram

Built in 1937, the shrine is a historical landmark dedicated to Will Rogers. It was commissioned by Spencer Penrose and stands as a testament to their friendship and Rogers' enduring legacy. Instagram

Spencer Penrose, the wealthy Coloradoan who built the shrine, and his wife Julie Penrose are buried in the chapel at the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. Instagram

Perched nearly 8,000 feet above sea level on Cheyenne Mountain, the shrine's location was chosen for its commanding panoramic views, offering a spectacular backdrop for the tribute. TikTok

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun features an Art Deco-inspired architectural style, characteristic of its construction in the late 1930s. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun can be a fantastic addition to a family outing, especially when combined with a trip to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. The short drive up from the zoo is manageable for most families, and the panoramic views from the top are sure to captivate children's imaginations. TikTok

Encourage kids to climb the stairs to the summit for a sense of accomplishment and to experience the expansive views. The historical aspect, learning about Will Rogers, can also be an engaging element for older children. Pack snacks and water, as amenities at the shrine itself might be limited, but the overall experience offers a unique blend of nature, history, and stunning scenery that families can enjoy together. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers

For those who enjoy a bit of physical activity, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun offers a rewarding experience. While driving is the primary access method, the climb up the 94 steps to the summit provides a good workout and a sense of achievement. Reddit Some events, like the 'Walk Run to the Shrine,' cater specifically to those looking for a more strenuous ascent, covering a significant elevation gain. Instagram

Even if you drive most of the way, taking the stairs allows you to appreciate the structure and the surrounding environment more intimately. The effort is well worth it for the incredible views that await you at the top, making it a satisfying destination for active visitors who appreciate both a good climb and a spectacular payoff. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Will Rogers and Spencer Penrose

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun stands as a poignant tribute to the iconic American humorist, Will Rogers. Built in 1937 by Rogers' close friend, the wealthy philanthropist Spencer Penrose, the shrine commemorates Rogers' life and legacy. Penrose, a prominent figure in Colorado Springs, commissioned the tower as a memorial after Rogers' untimely death in an airplane crash. The shrine's construction reflects the deep friendship between the two men and their shared appreciation for life and its simple joys. Instagram

Visitors can explore the shrine and learn about the history behind its creation. A small museum near the entrance often provides insights into the lives of both Rogers and Penrose. The serene chapel within the shrine complex serves as the final resting place for Spencer and Julie Penrose, adding another layer of historical significance to the site. The dedication to Rogers, known for his wit and wisdom, makes the shrine a place of reflection and appreciation for his enduring impact on American culture. Reddit

Experiencing the Panoramic Views

One of the most compelling reasons to visit the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is the absolutely breathtaking panoramic scenery it offers. Situated at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level on the side of Cheyenne Mountain, the shrine provides an unparalleled vantage point overlooking Colorado Springs and the vast expanse of the surrounding Pikes Peak region. TikTok

Visitors can ascend to the top of the tower via a staircase, which is often described as a rewarding climb. From this elevated position, the views are truly spectacular, especially on a clear day. The 360-degree vista allows you to take in the urban landscape, rolling hills, and distant mountain ranges. Many visitors recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting, creating a memorable photographic opportunity. InstagramReddit

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