By Melissa Trenary
There’s a nip in the air, the days are growing shorter, and in Cripple Creek, the aspen trees are celebrating the change of seasons by sporting their brightest gold and red frocks.
The Two Mile High Club is once again presenting their annual Aspen Tours, Sept. 25 – 26. Come take in all the fabulous fall colors from 10,000 feet. Tours leave from the Pikes Peak Heritage Center each day beginning at 10 a.m. Last tour departs at 4 p.m. There is no charge for the tours, but donations are accepted. All monies raised go to support Cripple Creek’s World Famous Donkey Herd. For more information, call 719-689-3315.
The Cripple Creek District Museum presents its annual September Art Show through Sept. 26. This year’s theme is “Doors To The Past.” Using historic doors as the pallet, 11 local artists display their talent through a variety of mediums. These unique works of art are on display now and up for silent auction. This one time only event will conclude with an Artist’s Reception at 5 p.m., Sept. 26. Winners of the silent auction will be announced at this time. For more information, call 719-689-9540.
What better way to spend the weekend than staying in one of Cripple Creek’s historic hotels?
Hospitality House Hotel & RV Park
Located on the northwest edge of town in the former Teller County Hospital, the Hospitality House offers 17 exquisitely appointed Victorian rooms, hot tub, recreation room, free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. Prices range from $55 to $100, double occupancy. Pull through RV spaces available with either 30 or 50 amp service starting at $25. City and casino shuttle service available. Hospitality House is located at 600 N. “B” St.; call 719-689-2513 or visit www.cchospitalityhouse.com.
Hotel St. Nicolas
Located two blocks off Bennett Avenue in the former Sisters of Mercy Hospital, the St. Nicholas offers 18 uniquely decorated Victorian rooms, hot tub, sauna and continental breakfast. Prices range from $80 to $130. St. Nicholas is located at 303 N. 3rd St.; call 719-689-0856 or visit www.hotelstnicholas.com.
Carr Manor
Just one block off Bennett Avenue at the corner of 4th and Carr in the 
former Cripple Creek High School, the Carr Manor offers the most luxurious rooms and suites in Cripple Creek. Prices range from $100 for a standard Queen room to $400 for the spacious 900 sq. ft. Gov. Ralph Carr Suite featuring hydro spa. The Manor is located at 350 E. Carr Ave.; call 719-689-3709 or visit www.carrmanor.com for reservations.
Cripple Creek Motel
Can’t find a pet sitter? No problem, the Cripple Creek Motel, located on Hwy 67 at the east edge of town is Cripple Creek’s only “pet friendly” lodging. Prices range from $65 to $85. Call 719-689-2491 or visit www.cripplecreekmotel.com.
Gold King Mountain Inn
Stay and Play at the Wildwood Casino. Packages available now. Sunday through Thursday nights only $109, Friday and Saturday nights just $124. Includes a standard room at the Gold King Mountain Inn, $20 voucher for 
either the Saddle Bar or Ruby Tuesday with Sunday – Thursday stay, and a $30 voucher for Friday or Saturday stays, 20 percent off coupon for Wildwood Gift Shop merchandise, and 20 percent off a future stay at the Gold King Mountain Inn. Prices valid through Oct. 12, 2010. Call 719-689-2814.
