Panorama Park

Location and History

Found in southeast Colorado Springs, Panorama Park spans 13.5 acres of community space that's seen quite the transformation. Before 2022, this spot was pretty bare-bones - just a small playground, a baseball backstop, some benches, and a dirt parking lot. Fast forward to August 2022, and this park emerged from the largest neighborhood park renovation in the city's history, turning an underutilized space into something the community could truly embrace.

The park sits right beside Panorama Middle School and offers some breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the mountain skyline - hence the fitting name!

The Makeover Story

The metamorphosis didn't come cheap - this was an $8.5 million renovation project that brought together the City of Colorado Springs, the Trust for Public Land, and local community groups. What makes this renovation special is how much the community's voice shaped it. The designers didn't just build a park; they created a social heart that mirrors the diverse character of southeast Colorado Springs.

What You'll Find Here

Panorama Park offers a wide variety of activities. Kids will love the age-appropriate playground zones - little ones have their own toddler section, while older kids can explore more challenging equipment. Features include a roller slide, various swings including disk swings, a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, and a sandbox area for creative play.

On hot days, the splash pad is the place to be. It runs from 10am to 6pm during warm months, and don't worry about sudden storms - it automatically shuts off when thunderstorms are detected within a 5-mile radius.

Sports enthusiasts haven't been forgotten. The park includes two full basketball courts, a turf soccer field, a skate park, and a dirt bike track with various difficulty levels. For those looking to break a sweat, there's a dedicated fitness equipment area with multiple exercise stations.

Green Thinking

Beyond recreation, Panorama Park showcases some clever green infrastructure. The stormwater management system disperses runoff throughout the site, which not only handles water efficiently but also maximizes usable space.

The landscaping takes Colorado's climate into account, featuring native, drought-tolerant plants and trees. In fact, 58% of the park is covered in native grass seed, with only 24% dedicated to traditional Kentucky bluegrass - a thoughtful choice for our semi-arid environment.

Comfort and Accessibility

One of the park's strengths is its inclusive design. The merry-go-round includes wheelchair access points, and various play zones accommodate different mobility needs.

When it's time for a break, you can choose from several picnic areas with either covered pavilions or tables with umbrellas. Clean restrooms are available during park hours, alongside water fountains and a water bottle refill station - because staying hydrated at Colorado's elevation is important!

The layout offers good visibility throughout, with paved walking paths circling the grounds. While the parking lot isn't huge, you can find additional street parking nearby if needed.

Community Hub

Panorama Park has become a popular gathering spot for the neighborhood where people of all ages spend time. It hosts various community events year-round, including concerts, farmers' markets, and seasonal celebrations like the annual Fall Festival.

The park's inclusive design and variety of activities make it suitable for family outings, regardless of age or ability.