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Manitou Springs was founded in 1872 by Englishman Dr. William Bell and his business partner General William Palmer as a scenic health resort. The town was incorporated in 1876 (the same year Colorado became a state) and is now a home rule city of approximately 5,000 residents located on the western edge of an urban area of over 500,000 people (Colorado Springs). Manitou Springs is a Certified Local Government and has had an active Historic Preservation Commission and local Historic District since 1980.
Tourism is the mainstay of the local economy. Manitou Springs thrives as a popular tourist destination and is best known for its:
Area attractions include:
Shops, art galleries, museums, and restaurants line the downtown main street, and lodging ranges from historic bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) to elegant hotels.