At first glance, Old Colorado City looks like a simple frontier Old West town smashed against the major metropolitan area of Colorado Springs. That said, something underground this popular neighborhood is a bit out of the ordinary – underground cave-like tunnels that once allowed residents to discreetly access the town’s saloons, brothels, and gaming parlors.

Established in 1859, Old Colorado City had a reputation as “the wild side of town.” Home to blue-collar workers, saloons, and gaming parlors, the town served as a perfect haven for indulgence amid an era when those partaking in these activities could be pushed to the fringe.

The town’s main street, Colorado Avenue, was filled with plenty of respectable businesses and shops. Across from the main street, however, was West Cucharras Avenue, a street complete with brothels, gambling halls, and bars. It’s been reported that underground tunnels allowed prominent men to slip unnoticed into the seedier establishments, shielded from public scrutiny.

According to historian Mel McFarland, the tunnels were originally dug and constructed in the 1860s for travel security while there was conflict between pioneers and Native Americans. At some point, their purpose seemed to change.

Residents could leave to do a completely innocent activity, like go to a barber shop for a haircut, and return slightly inebriated and smelling like booze. Even though they entered the barber shop, they’d use the tunnels to reach their actual destination on West Cucharras Avenue (where all the brothels, saloons, bars, and gambling parlors were located).

The era of Old Colorado City’s “red-light district” came to an end around 1913 as the surrounding mines dried up. The tunnels fell into disuse. According to previous reporting from OutThere Colorado, the city knows the locations of four tunnels, with many thought to have collapsed or been covered by modern construction.

Although the seedy businesses of Old Colorado City, including gambling dens, unruly bars, and more, are now long gone, rumor has it that some of the tunnels are still standing.

Even though you won’t be able to explore underground tunnels of this old west part of town, Colorado City today still offers plenty of fun and an intriguing look into the wild west past of the Pikes Peak region.

Visit for its laid-back nightlife, the eclectic mix of restaurants, or summer farmers’ markets. Or, check out the biggest event of the year that takes place in this neighborhood – Frontier Days, which is a three-day festival over Memorial Day Weekend.

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