Building a Basecamp with Jordan Malara

Pure Distilling's mission was simple: to create fun and approachable spirits that embody the feeling of Colorado. Founded by two dog-loving Army vets, they were able to assemble a "Colorado Springs Dream Team" of individuals with incredible experience across the community to bring Pure Distilling to life. With a distilling process that utilizes 100% glass, ingredients sourced from around Colorado and drinks crafted at 6,000 feet, the result is a distillery unlike any other.  Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].  Episode links:  @PureDistilling on Instagram Pure-Distilling.com USOPM.org

The Visit COS team worked hard this summer to build out a new hub on VisitCOS.com, complete with customizable itineraries for whatever kind of trip you're looking to take. Traveling with kids? Multiple generations of your family? On a solo exploration? There's an itinerary for that! Listen in as Director of Communications Alexea Veneracion and our Content Specialist Kate Hertz discuss the new hub, their recommendations and where you can find it all. Explore more at VisitCOS.com/Itineraries . 

Jordan Malara had an unconventional start in the hotel business. A military Veteran, he first served in the Air Force and Space Force before getting into vacation rentals. He soon realized he had a desire to bring a real sense of community and place to guests by opening a new boutique hotel concept – The Outrider. Located in historic Manitou Springs, The Outrider stays true to the town's core wellness and outdoorsy roots. Tune in and learn about how Jordan and his team fully renovated an old property to bring to life a concept that's now being embraced by visitors and the community. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].

For 50 years, Labor Day Lift Off has been a treasured Colorado Springs community event. Although the event has changed locations, names and format through the years, one thing hasn't changed – the magic for people of all ages. Together, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation and Hot Apple Productions orchestrate this weekend-long festival that includes live music, food trucks and of course, hot air balloons. Listen in as Brianna Goodwin and Amanda Rhea Warren describe the evolution of the event, what it takes to pull it off, and how you can best enjoy it. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. 

Across four generations, the Flying W Ranch has connected families and friends over home cooked meals and Western music by the Flying W Wranglers. Since building the nation's original chuckwagon dinner show in 1953, and then rebuilding after a major fire in 2012, the Flying W has remained an iconic Colorado Springs experience. Tune in as Ruth Thurston and Michael Amidei tell us about the Flying W – where the beauty of Colorado meets the magic of the Old West.   Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].

For Eliza and John Hill, it was love at first arrow. Not Cupid's arrow, but the flying arrow of an archery dodgeball game. After trying this unique sport, the adventurous couple decided to open their own archery dodgeball venue right here in Colorado Springs. Tune in as they tell us all about their love for the game, what players can expect and why you'll want to give it a shot for your next group or family outing. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].  Episode links:  @SherwoodShowdown SherwoodShowdown.com United We Rock

Listen in to this special episode of Peak Into Our Week where VCOS Content Specialist Kate Hertz is joined by Nathan Richie, Director of the Golden History Museum and co-chair of the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission. The two talk all things Colorado history, as well as ways that you can celebrate the dual anniversary around the Pikes Peak Region.  Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].   

Since its arrival to the area in the late 1950s, the U.S. Air Force Academy has shaped the Colorado Springs community. Mike Peterson and Lisa Neener both flew for the Air Force for over 20 years and have a long history with the institution – and now, they're fired up about its future. With the opening of the new Hosmer Visitor Center right outside the North Gate, visitors can learn about USAFA's history and get a full understanding of the 47-month journey of a cadet through immersive exhibits. Learn about this new state welcome center and all of the ways to engage with the Academy as you visit the region. 

Colorado Springs comes alive in the summer time, with so much to do it can be hard to keep track! Listen in as our Content Specialist Kate Hertz and Director of Communications Alexea Veneracion talk about some can't-miss events, important anniversaries and our favorite spots for a sweet treat! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected].

With a passion for historic artifacts and collections, Sarah Woods' path led her from the Midwest to the heart of Colorado Springs – the El Pomar Foundation. Established by philanthropists Julie and Spencer Penrose back in 1937, El Pomar continues to make an enormous impact on the community. Learn about the legacy of the Penroses, including the beloved attractions they're responsible for creating, and the rich history you can explore through El Pomar.