Want to Tour the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum? Here’s What You Can Expect

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You don’t need to be a sports fan to appreciate the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs. In fact, having watched the Olympics isn’t even a requirement to enjoy your visit. Although being an avid fan will undoubtedly heighten your experience, the interactive displays and decade’s worth of Olympic artifacts in the 60,000-square-foot facility can inspire even the least enthusiastic “sports fan.”

Our family had the opportunity to explore the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum this summer and enjoyed it even more than I expected to — and I went with high expectations!

As you approach each interactive display in the museum, the lanyard given to you at check-in will act as your personal tour guide. It enables each display to recognize you and even greet you by name. You’ll also have the ability to save cool information in your “locker” that you can access with your lanyard at home. 

interactive display at the Colorado Olympic Museum
Your lanyard allows you to interact with each display as you tour the Museum.

What Will You See at the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum?

With 12 galleries filled with artifacts and interactive exhibits, there is plenty to see! As you make your way through the museum, you’ll discover an immersive experience throughout your tour. 

athlete uniforms on exhibit at the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Recognize Mary Lou Retton’s gymnastic uniform?

You’ll see a complete set of all the torches used for opening ceremonies since 1936, uniforms and paraphernalia used by famous athletes, the scoreboard from the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey game, and so much more.

Our favorite part of the tour was the area that offered you a chance to “compete” in various events. 

Want to know what it’s like to do archery or try alpine skiing? You’ll be able to within this gallery.

alpine ski display at the Olympic museum
Bella takes a turn at the Alpine Sky Interactive Display.

How about running a 30-meter race against an Olympic Champion? (Warning, they’ll finish the race about the time you realize it started — it’s incredible how fast they run!

race track at the Olympic Museum
Sophia “races” an Olympic champion.

Take Your Time in the Museum

You’ll need at least an hour and a half to fully experience the Museum, although I’m sure you could spend even longer to really take it all in. 

One of the last exhibits you’ll see as you wind up your tour is the medal collection. I’d venture to bet the huge majority of people visiting the Museum have never seen even one Olympic medal in person. This wall displays Bronze, Silver, and Gold medals from all the Olympics to date. 

Stunning? Very much so.

Commonly Asked Questions About the Museum

Where Is the Official Olympic Museum?

The Olympic Museum is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado at 200 S. Sierra Madre Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. An important thing to note is there is also a US Olympic Training Center located in Colorado Springs. Make sure you use the correct address, or you’ll end up at the Training Center instead of the Museum! (Yes, speaking from experience.)

What Are the Olympic Museum Hours?

The Colorado Springs Olympic Museum is open Sunday through Friday, 10 am – 5 pm, and Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm.

How Much Does It Cost to Go to the Olympic Museum in Colorado Springs?

Olympic Museum Tickets: General Admission

  • Adult: $24.95
  • Child (5-12): $14.95
  • Children 4 and under are free

Discounts are available for military and first responders, seniors, and groups of 12 or more.

Tickets can be purchased online up to 90 days in advance. Although you can buy them at the Museum on the day of your visit, they may be sold out by then.

Is Parking Free at the Olympic Museum in Colorado Springs?

No, the parking lot in front of the Museum is $15/day. However, there is metered parking along the street that is less expensive. You’ll have to walk an extra 2-3 minutes, but the option is there if you’d like to save a few dollars.

How Long Does It Take To Go Through the Olympic Museum in Colorado Springs?

Plan at least an hour and a half for your visit. You’ll be surprised how quickly time goes! Although you can leave the Museum and come back later in the day, don’t arrive before your timed entry. Tickets are spaced out to make a better experience for all visitors.

Imagine yourself at the opening ceremonies of the Olympics.

Make Plans to Visit

If your travel plans include visiting Colorado, it’s not too early to research things to do in Colorado Springs. When you do, you’re going to find the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum needs to be at the top of your list, right up there with Flying W Ranch and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo!

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Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.

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