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United States Air Force Academy in Colorado

The Academy is one of the most popular attractions in Colorado, welcoming more than one million visitors each year.

Find out everything you need to know about visiting.

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado , located north of Colorado Springs, is an institution that educates, trains and inspires men and women to become officers of character motivated to lead the United States Air Force and Space Force in service to our nation.

Hours & Visitor Info

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs is open to visitors daily from 5:30 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and the Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m . The Visitor Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Visitors to the Academy can enter through either the South or North Gate, which can be accessed from Exit 150 or 156 on Interstate 25, just north of downtown Colorado Springs. The public is welcome to use the Arnold Hall food court, hiking and biking trails, the stables and golf course. Stop by the Visitor Center for more information.

All guests over the age of 18 are required to have a valid state-issued ID, Defense Department ID, or passport. Random vehicle inspections may also be required. Learn more about getting on base .

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR

Top 11 Must-See Attractions at the U.S. Air Force Academy

1. barry goldwater visitor center, 2. u.s. air force academy planetarium.

Travel to space or other far off lands in free, immersive screenings presented on an incredible 8K projected display with surround sound.

3. Noon Meal Formation

Watch as thousands of cadets march in formation to Mitchell Hall to the Air Force song and other anthems.

4. Cadet Chapel

Closed for a major restoration until Spring 2027, the stunning chapel features striking architectural elements inspired by Air Force vehicles.

5. B-52 Display

It'll be hard to miss this massive static display of a B-52 bomber that served in the Vietnam War and is the last bomber in aviation history to have downed aircraft with machine guns.

6. Cadet Field House

Cheer on the Falcons at this massive sports arena, home to basketball, volleyball, ice hockey and indoor track competitions.

7. Academic Overlook

Soak in your surroundings and marvel at campus buildings at this scenic overlook.

8. Athletic Overlook

Nearby the Academic Overlook, this vantage point offers sweeping views of the Academy's sprawling sports fields.

9. Arnold Hall

Home to a 2,900-seat theater and a food court, the Hall also features commemorative displays of the Tuskegee Airmen and other notable historical Air Force figures.

10. Doolittle Hall

A giant Pegasus statue greets you at Doolittle Hall, home to the alumni association. Nearby, find the Challenge Bridge, Mall of Heroes, Memorial Wall, and Southeast Asia Pavilion.

11. Falcon Stadium

Sit among 46,692 fans as they cheer on the Falcons at this impressive football stadium, also host to the Academy's annual graduation celebration.

In addition to state-of-the-art technology and modern architecture, this campus offers eleven different sites for civilians to explore.

U.S. Air Force Academy Chapel

PLEASE NOTE:

The U.S. Air Force Academy Chapel is closed for a major restoration that is estimated to last until spring 2027. Those interested in seeing the Cadet Chapel can check out the virtual tour .

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado is perhaps best known for its stunning chapel. Soaring 150 feet toward the Colorado sky, the Cadet Chapel is an all-faith house of worship designed to meet the spiritual needs of cadets. It contains centers of worship for Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Buddhist chapels, an All-Faiths Room, and a Falcon Circle, each with its own entrance. The Chapel is capable of holding services in all rooms at one time.

The aluminum, glass and steel structure features 17 spires. There is no significance to this number. Original designs were too expensive, so changes were made, among them a reduction in the number of spires. The changes did not alter the basic design or the interior square footage of the chapel, however. The chapel structure cost $3.5 million to build. Furnishings, pipe organs, liturgical fittings and adornments of the chapel were presented as gifts from individuals, organizations, and donations from Easter offerings made at Air Force bases. The chapel was named one of CNN's most epic churches in America .

U.S. Air Force Academy Planetarium

The Planetarium features free shows for cadets, school groups and the public. Enjoy shows such as Black Holes, Fighter Pilot and Superpower Dogs. One of the oldest structures at the Academy, it was originally used to teach cadets celestial navigation. Now, after a refurbishment provided by generous donations, the advanced technology and capabilities serve a new generation of cadets leading the way in space, as well as STEM education for K-12 students and community outreach.

Check out the latest schedule of free public shows and enjoy the reclining theater seats and 8K projectors offering a 360-degree near-hemispheric screen to deliver a visually immersive field-of-view.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the united states air force academy in colorado.

The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado is located just north of Colorado Springs on a 18,500-acre campus that sits against the beautiful Front Range mountain range. Colorado Springs was selected as the site of the Academy at the recommendation of a special commission appointed by the secretary of the Air Force upon the Academy's formation by Congress in 1954. The commission had traveled 21,000 miles and toured hundreds of sites during their research process, ultimately selecting Colorado Springs as their top choice overall. Construction on the Air Force Academy began in the summer of 1955.

What kinds of hiking and biking trails are available at the U.S. Air Force Academy?

The U.S. Air Force Academy maintains over 30 miles of trails which visitors can enjoy. Pack sunscreen and layers of clothing as the mountain weather can change quickly. Bring a buddy to explore the Rampart Range and carry water with you to stay hydrated. Here’s a list of all the trails available to explore. To view a full map of U.S. Air Force Academy trails, click here .

Are there dining options available for visitors on base?

Yes, there are plenty of options for grabbing a snack or meal while you are on the base. They include fast food and favorite chains, pub fare and several restaurants serving lunch and dinner. Here is a  list of all the dining options  and their hours of operation.

What kind of events happen at the U.S. Air Force Academy?

There are events year-round at the base. For a full schedule, visit the Academy’s calendar of events . The U.S. Air Force Academy cadets compete on 27 NCAA Division I teams, primarily within the Mountain West Conference. To get tickets to an upcoming game and cheer on the Falcons during their most popular sporting events including football, basketball, volleyball and hockey, call 719-472-1895 or visit www.goairforcefalcons.com .

Who attends the U.S. Air Force Academy?

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado is among the most selective colleges in the United States. Candidates are judged based on their academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, athletics and character. To gain admission, candidates must also pass a fitness test, undergo a thorough medical examination and secure a nomination, which usually comes from one of the candidate's members of Congress. Recent incoming classes have usually consisted of about 1,400 cadets; just under 1,000 of those usually make it through to graduation. Cadets pay no tuition but are committed to serving a number of years in the military service after graduation. Graduates of the four-year program receive a Bachelor of Science degree and most are commissioned as second lieutenants.

Is camping available for youth groups or scouts?

The U.S. Air Force Academy is proud to host local youth organizations on base for camping. Our designated campground for overnight stays is conveniently located near the North Gate. The primitive campground is adjacent to the B-52 static display and available to reserve year-round . There is no fee to reserve the campground. In order to allow time for processing, please make your reservations at least 45 days in advance. Nestled along the base of the Front Range, the Academy preserves over 18,500 acres of forests and mountain terrain, ideal for outdoor activities.

Due to base regulations, groups camping overnight must have a designated sponsor with a valid Department of Defense/military ID card.

You may not be able to go to 55 attractions in 5 days, but we did.

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Gone But Not Forgotten

• Career Services
• Business Guide

USAFA Information

The academy welcomes all visitors to one of our country's national historic landmarks.

Whether visiting the Air Force Academy or looking for general information on USAFA and its facilities, please review these online resources for supportive businesses in the area and any heightened security updates for getting on base:

• USAFA.EDU (Air Force Academy website)
• USAFA Visitor Information (usafa.af.mil)
• Getting on Base
• Heritage Project Monuments
• Academy Cemetery and Mortuary Affairs

The Visitors Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Academy Heritage

Southeast Asia Pavilion

The pavilion along the Heritage Trail has already become a major point of interest for the Academy ...

Distinguished Grad Award

The Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes exceptional graduates ...

Honoring fallen comrades is an important part of the AOG mission ...

How to Get Into The Air Force Academy

The United States Air Force Academy is where future Air Force officers go to college to get the best education and military training there is.

Located in beautiful and rugged Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Air Force Academy is the home of around 4,000 cadets who make up the Wing.

Getting accepted to this prestigious military academy takes brains, brawn, and a bit of luck, as well.

So how exactly do you get into the Air Force Academy?

In short, you need to do the following:

• Register as a Future Falcon
• Attend their summer seminar
• Get really good grades, SAT / ACT scores, and rank highly in your class
• Complete an interview with their Admissions Liaison Officer (ALO)
• Undergo a drug alcohol test, as well as a full medical eval. and physical fitness test
• Participate in a broad array of extracurricular activities and sports
• Get a congressional nomination from a US State Senator, Congressman / Congresswoman, or other official nomination source

Obviously getting in isn’t easy, and it’s because of this that the acceptance rate sits at just over 12%.

So, what can you do to increase your chances of getting in?  Find out more below.

Related Article – Attending The Naval Academy Preparatory School

Jump To A Section

US Air Force Academy At A Glance

Pre-Application Steps

Air Force Academy Application Steps

Getting A Congressional Nomination

Life As A Air Force Cadet

The US Air Force Academy At A Glance

All students at the US Air Force Academy, or USAFA, are there because they want to serve as officers in the United States Air Force.

USAFA brings excellent academic programs, leadership opportunities, and competitive athletics and clubs together to provide an experience like no other that is designed to prepare the Air Force’s next leaders.

Students are able to choose from among 27 majors and 3 minors, while studying in small classes. The average class size is just 19 students, and all classes are taught by Academy faculty, rather than Graduate Students or Teaching Assistants.

The focus during class is in-depth discussion and hands-on learning, an intentional move by the Air Force Academy to provide opportunities for critical thinking and engagement.

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Classes are graded on a standard scale (A being a 4.0 and F being a 0.0), with some classes such as military training being pass/fail.

Cadets are expected to take a heavy course load throughout their time at USAFA, but benefit from access to professors, upperclassmen to help with tutoring, and a variety of other resources on campus.

Cadets are also evaluated on their military performance and physical training. USAFA maintains high standards for academics, military performance, and fitness, which every cadet must meet.

After graduation, every student enters the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant.

In exchange for the free education provided at the Air Force Academy ( currently valued at over $400,000 ), students agree to serve a minimum of 5 years on active duty and an additional 3 years in the inactive reserves.

Becoming a Cadet at USAFA is the first patriotic step to a life of service in the Air Force.

Related Article: Which Branch Of The Military Should I Join? 7 Things To Consider

Learn More About The Air Force Academy Before Applying

If this type of challenging environment sounds right for you, the next step is to learn more about life at USAFA.

Being part of the student body, called The Wing, is not an easy task and potential cadets benefit from researching the Air Force Academy before applying to make sure it is the right fit.

Visit the campus:

A visit to Colorado Springs offers potential applicants and their families the chance to see USAFA up close.

The Air Force Academy is located 55 miles outside of Denver and is best accessed via the Colorado Springs airport for air travel or on I-25 for automobiles.

Visitors who do not have a Department of Defense ID card will need to use the North Gate, located off Exit 156.

Bonus: If you enjoy skiing and outdoor activities, the area, known as “Ski Country, USA,” is a beautiful place to visit and enjoy the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

Related Article – How To Get Into West Point Military Academy

Request a guided tour:

The Air Force Academy offers two main guided tour options: Discover USAFA and Explore USAFA.

Discover the Air Force Academy includes an admissions briefing with a question and answer portion and a guided walking tour of the campus.

Explore the Air Force Academy includes the same admissions briefing with a question and answer portion, followed by a self-guided tour.

Both are held frequently throughout the year, usually in the afternoon.

Visitors should check out the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center on campus to see everything that USAFA has to offer.

Become a Future Falcon

The US Air Force Academy recommends reaching out to admissions as early as possible to learn as much as you can about the application process and life as a cadet. They have created an email registration option for all interested high school students.

Registering as a Future Falcon means that you will receive email updates about admissions, as well as invitations to online and in-person meetups and seminars to help you connect with other potential and current cadets.

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Attend The Summer Seminar

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Air Force Academy provides the opportunity to live like a cadet during the summer between their junior and senior years of high school.

Summer Seminar participants will:

• Live in the dorms and eat in the dining hall
• Engage in academic workshops on campus in classrooms and labs
• Participate in admissions and other interest workshops
• Get a taste of introductory military training, such as physical fitness, marching, and Air Force traditions
• Learn about exciting Air Force careers
• Hear about Cadet life from current Cadets and other panelists

Summer Seminar is not a requirement for admission or even application. Rather, it is meant to inform potential applicants on whether USAFA is a good fit for them.

Still have questions about the application process, USAFA, or the Air Force? Reach out to your Admission Liaison Officer, ALO. This volunteer is there in your local area to help you navigate the application, learn more about USAFA, and explain what to expect as a cadet and later as an Air Force officer.

US Air Force Academy Application Steps

The application to the Air Force Academy is longer and more rigorous than that of most other colleges and universities.

For this reason, it is important to look at the application process as early as possible. Applications officially open during the spring of an applicant’s junior year.

But to be competitive, applicants should know what USAFA is looking for years in advance of actually applying.

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The Air Force Academy looks at basic eligibility and evaluation, as well as an applicant’s performance in four main areas: academics, character, extracurricular activities, and physical fitness.

Step 1: Basic Air Force Academy Eligibility

To start an application, all students need to be between the ages of 17 and 23 on July 1 of the year they begin at the US Air Force Academy. They also need to be a U.S. citizen and unmarried with no dependents. International students wishing to attend have their own application process.

If you are eligible, you should proceed to the pre-candidate questionnaire. This information lets the Academy know how competitive you will be during the application process.

As part of the pre-candidate questionnaire, you will need to provide your name, birthdate, SSN, and contact information.

You will also include basic information about your high school (name and class size), as well as your performance measurements (class rank, GPA, and standardized test score).

The Air Force Academy will evaluate this information and invite you to apply as a candidate.

Related Article – Joining The Military After College: How To Do It The “Right” Way

Step 2: Academic Requirements

The academic program at USAFA is challenging, and the admissions committee wants to make sure that all incoming cadets are prepared for the academic load.

During the admissions process, they look at a candidate’s Prior Academic Record, PAR, and College Admissions Test Scores.

Prior Academic Record: class rank and GPA

USAFA recommends taking the following classes to be competitive for admission and academically prepared to do well as a Cadet.

• English: Four years, including a college preparatory writing class
• Math: Four years, including geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus
• Science: Four years, including biology, chemistry, and physics labs
• Social Studies: Three years, including U.S. history
• Foreign Language: Two years
• Computer Study: One year

Taking challenging coursework requires advanced planning and is one of the reasons USAFA recommends interested applicants learn more about admissions early in their high school careers.

Many successful applicants were at the top of their high school graduating class, but USAFA recognizes that not all high school programs are evaluated in the same way.

It is recommended that you ask your guidance counselor to provide a profile of your high school’s last graduating class to give USAFA insight into how you perform compared to your peers.

This is especially important if your high school does not include weighted grades for advanced courses. Some AP and IB courses/test scores are accepted for credit by USAFA and are evaluated during Basic Cadet Training.

College Admission Test Scores: standardized college entrance exams (SAT or ACT)

All applicants must take either the SAT or ACT and have their official scores sent to USAFA.

• SAT: Competitive scores are above 580 verbal and 560 math
• ACT: Competitive scores are above 24 English/reading and 25 math/science

Most successful applicants score high on standard college admission tests, even if this means taking the test more than once.

The average cadet SAT score is 642 verbal and 672 math. The average cadet ACT score is 30 on all sections.

It is important to prepare for the college admission tests and leave enough time to retake them if needed.

USAFA accepts either the SAT or the ACT and does not require applicants to take both exams.

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Step 3: Character At The Air Force Academy

USAFA stresses moral character development in order to prepare top-quality leaders for the Air Force. This begins with the admissions process.

All potential cadets should demonstrate that they are young men and women of exceptionally high character.

In addition to being a resource for applicants, the Admissions Liaison Officer also provides information back to the Air Force Academy admissions about applicants. Each potential cadet is required to complete an interview with their ALO, which becomes part of their application.

Applicants are also required to submit three evaluations completed by a school official, such as a teacher. For high school students, these individuals should be their 11 th grade English teacher, math teacher, and one other teacher.

You can also submit up to two letters of recommendation that further demonstrate your character and abilities to the admission committee.

You should choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your high performance, character, and potential.

The writing sample portion of the application provides candidates the chance to “speak” on their own behalf to the admissions committee. Applicants are required to complete two writing samples from a bank of three prompts.

The admissions committee looks at what you have written, as well as how well you have written it, when evaluating writing samples.

The Air Force Academy also requires applicants to submit their personal data records, such as arrests, traffic violations, or other incidents, as well as written explanation.

Applicants will be given instructions to complete a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Certificate from their ALO and be tested for drugs during their medical evaluation.

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Step 4: Extracurricular Activities

Participation in sports, clubs, and other organizations is a valuable part of cadet life. For this reason, the admissions committee wants to see applicants who join and take on a leadership role in their community.

Applicants can list all activities (athletic and non-athletic), community service, and work that they completed in grades 10-12. In general, successful applicants demonstrated a commitment to a few activities that were big parts of their life rather than minimal participation in a lot of activities.

If you received any awards or honors, such as earning a Varsity letter or placing in a state competition, this is the place to include them.

Leadership is also highly valued by the admissions committee, so taking on an officer or team captain role will both impress USAFA in your application and prepare you for the leadership challenges you will face as a Cadet and later as an officer in the Air Force.

Step 5: Physical fitness

All cadets are required to take a physical fitness test. After graduation, Air Force officers also need to meet physical fitness standards to remain competitive for promotion.

During the application process, all candidates must complete the Candidate Fitness Assessment, which consists of:

• Basketball throw: Goal of 69 ft. (men) and 42 ft. (women)
• Pull-ups (men)/flexed arm hang (women): Goal of 12 (men) and 31 sec. (women)
• Shuttle run: Goal of 8.1 sec. (men) and 9.4 sec. (women)
• Crunches: Goal of 81 (men) and 78 (women)
• Push-ups: Goal of 62 (men) and 41 (women)
• One mile run for time: Goal of 6:29 (men) and 7:30 (women)

The official CFA must be administered by a PE teacher, ALO, or JROTC instructor. For currently serving military members, an active-duty commissioned officer can administer the test.

Related Article – Air Force PT Test Standards

Step 6: Medical evaluation

All service academy applicants complete a Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board physical. If you have taken the exam as part of the admissions process for another service academy, it is not necessary to complete it again.

Some medical conditions, such as eyesight that is correctable to allowable limits, do not impact eligibility, while others require a waiver. Waivers are automatically processed for competitive applicants.

Getting a Congressional Nomination

The USAFA application requires a lot of information, but it is only one step to become a cadet at the Air Force Academy.

All candidates are also required to obtain a nomination from their Congressional Representative or Senator.

• US Representative in your district (1): Open to all candidates
• US Senator in your state (2): Open to all candidates
• Vice President (1): Open to all candidates
• Military Affiliated Nominations (varies): Open to children of career military personnel, children of deceased or disabled veterans, children of military personnel in a missing status, children of Medal of Honor recipients, currently serving Air Force regular and reserve personnel, Honor military schools and Air Force ROTC/JROTC
• US Territories (varies): Open to candidates living in Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, District of Columbia, Guam, or US Virgin Islands

The deadlines for application vary with each individual nomination source but USAFA must receive all successful nominations by January 31.

Keep in mind that the nomination process is separate and distinct from the US Air Force Academy application. This means that you will need to submit information to both, as they do not share information or documents back and forth.

The nomination process also occurs simultaneously with the USAFA application. Do not wait to complete one before starting on the other. You may miss important deadlines!

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Life as a US Air Force Academy Cadet

Once you receive that coveted acceptance letter, the real adventure begins.

You will report to the 6-week Basic Cadet Training in the summer following your high school graduation. During this intense time, you will transform from a high school student into a cadet.

Cadets progress from their freshman, or 4/C year, during which they learn the basics of military discipline and academics to become leaders of the Wing.

Sophomores, or 3/C, have a little bit more freedom but are still expected to learn and absorb as much as they can as they go through their day on campus.

Juniors, called 2/C, train the underclassmen and get to enjoy more liberty and clout among the student body.

Senior Cadets, or 1/C, have their eyes firmly fixed on graduation and the challenges that they will face as new Air Force officers.

USAFA relies on cadets to train and lead each other, which provides them with the opportunity to explore and hone their own leadership style before joining the larger military community after graduation.

The road to admission at the US Air Force Academy is long and difficult, just like the process of being a cadet and making it to graduation. But with resources along the way, competitive applicants can be confident when they put their best foot forward with the admissions committee.

Related Article:  20 Reasons to Join the Military (and 7 reasons not to)

References:

• https://www.academyadmissions.com/admissions/the-application-process/application-steps/
• https://www.academyadmissions.com/admissions/
• https://www.academyadmissions.com/what-to-expect/
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General FAQ

What gpa do you need to get into the u.s. air force academy.

You’ll need to be near the top of your class — the average GPA for cadets accepted to the Air Force Academy is 3.87.

What SAT scores do I need to get into the Air Force Academy?

You’ll need a competitive score of above 580 Verbal and 560 Math. The average SAT score for successful cadets is 642 Verbal and 672 Math.

What ACT score do I need to qualify for the Air Force Academy?

If you took the ACT, you’ll need scores above 24 English/Reading and 25 Math/Science. The average ACT scores for accepted cadets is 30 on both sections.

Are cadets paid while they attend the Air Force Academy?

Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy receive a base pay of $1,040.70 per month to cover school related expenses, such as uniforms, computers, and textbooks.

Are cadets still considered their parents’ dependents while attending the Air Force Academy?

The Air Force considers Academy Cadets as active duty members of the military, so even though they are attending college, they are no longer dependents.

Originally posted on April 16, 2019 @ 4:07 pm

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How Can I Prepare?

Airmen give their all every day, you can start now.

Leading the greatest Air Force and Space Force in the world takes hard work and dedication. Show us you’ve got what it takes to stand apart from your peers and start preparing now.

Middle School Students The Future Is Never Far Off

The earlier you start preparing, the greater your chances are of earning an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. The most important thing is understanding what will be expected of you so you can work toward those goals as you progress through school.

Experience the Birthplace of Leaders

How does it feel to trace the footsteps of some of our nation’s most revered leaders? Come see the United States Air Force Academy for yourself and find out.

If You Have Questions, Get Answers

Our outreach programs can help you determine whether the U.S. Air Force Academy is right for you as well as help you make your application as complete and competitive as possible.

How Can You Learn More?

The majority of our events are held in the fall and spring, with fewer events in the summer months. To learn more about the U.S. Air Force Academy, check for an event that may be convenient for you.

High School Students Apply Yourself Before You Apply to the Academy

Even though your junior year of high school is when the application process officially begins, becoming a competitive applicant starts when you’re a freshman by building your academic record and participating in athletics as well as other leadership roles.

“I knew there’d be challenges, but that’s part of the reason why I wanted to come here. The best thing about the Academy is the opportunities that come with it.”

College Students It’s Never Too Late to Set Your Sights Even Higher

If you’re already in college but have always dreamed of attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, it might not be too late. If you’ve set yourself apart academically and athletically while also developing as a leader, then an appointment could be yours.

Commitment Spend Your Career Leading Others, Not Paying Off Debt

An education at the U.S. Air Force Academy is provided at no cost to cadets. Instead, once you graduate, you will commission as an officer in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force. The length of your commitment will depend on your career path, but the benefits will last a lifetime.

ENLISTED AIRMEN Take on the Next Challenge in Your Career

Character and responsibility are traits that we seek in potential cadets—traits that enlisted Airmen already possess. If you’re looking to join the officer ranks and willing to put in the work, you just may have what it takes to earn a spot at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

International Students

The opportunity to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy is not just available to U.S. students. Every year, a limited number of slots are reserved for international students. While the application process may be different, the strict admission requirements are the same.

Your Path to Excellence Starts Here

10 Things to Do at the U.S. Air Force Academy Near Liberty Heights

In addition to all the gorgeous nature to explore in Colorado Springs, Colorado, one major tourist draw to the area is the U.S. Air Force Academy. The U.S. Air Force became a separate military service in 1947 via the National Security Act. In 1955, the U.S. Air Force Academy swore in its first class of more than 300 graduates.

Today, the U.S. Air Force Academy opens its doors to visitors on the campus, which is just 5 miles away from Senior Lifestyle’s Liberty Heights community . The school has family-friendly activities and attractions, so visitors can learn more about American military history and see where some of the world’s strongest military members train for essential careers.

There are plenty of reasons to include Air Force Academy Colorado Springs tours as an attraction for both visitors and Colorado Springs locals alike. The following are a few things to do at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

Explore Acclaim at East Beach

10+ u.s. air force academy things to do, 1. cadet chapel.

The Cadet Chapel attracts both Air Force Academy visitors and tourists in the state of Colorado in general, as it’s the most-visited man-made tourist attraction in the state. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to go inside the building until necessary repairs are completed in 2027. However, it’s a sight to behold from the outside, as the all-faith chapel has 17 spires that climb 150 feet up.

Once the chapel opens back up, it’s worth revisiting. Inside, there are vibrant stained-glass colors illuminating the aluminum, glass and steel structure.

2. Planetarium

The academy’s planetarium supports Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) educational efforts for cadets. When you visit inside, you can sit on a comfy chair and look up at the star-filled dome that represents the universe in a 360-degree immersive experience. 

Contact the academy to inquire about live astronomer shows , typically held several afternoons a week.

3. B-52 Display

Upon entering the North Gate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, there’s a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress on display. This plane is a long-range, subsonic strategic bomber nicknamed Diamond ‘Lil. The plane is the last bomber in the history of aviation to have used machine guns to shoot down wartime aircraft. It was used in the Vietnam War, deactivated in 1983 and relocated from Peterson Air Force Base to the academy.

4. Barry Goldwater Visitor Center

The Barry Goldwater Visitor Center is sort of like a museum on campus, featuring historical displays on the history of the Air Force Academy. Here, you can see a mock cadet dorm room, watch a documentary about cadet life, learn about the Cadet Chapel’s history and discover the four areas of the cadet training program: academic training, athletic training, character development and military training. The visitor center also has a gift shop with Air Force Academy-themed souvenirs.

5. Chapel Trail

The Chapel Trail is a 1/3-mile paved trail that starts at the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center and heads toward the Cadet Chapel, cadet viewing area and Honor Court. Along the walk, see mountain views or sit on a bench to relax.

6. Honor Court

The Honor Court is an outdoors area filled with Air Force-themed artwork and historical sculptures and statues, including the WWII Women Airforce Service Pilots statue and the Tuskegee Airman Memorial sculpture. Honor Court also features the Harmon memorial, which pays tribute to one of the U.S. Air Force Academy’s founders, Lt. Gen. Hubert Reilly Harmon.

7. Falcon Stadium

Take in some deep breaths at Falcon Stadium, the second-highest Division I playing field in the U.S., sitting at more than 6,000 feet above sea level and seating around 47,000 fans. Catch a college football game here, featuring unique aircraft flyovers and the Wings of Blue parachute team flying onto the field. You can also see the Belk Falcon Statue in front of the stadium, with a 24-foot wingspan that makes it perfect for photos.

8. Thunderbird Overlook

Past Falcon Stadium and the Davis Airfield, you’ll find aircraft displays featuring A-10 and T-38 aircraft. The T-38 was used in an aerial demonstration at Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field, while the A-10 was used during a military mission in the 1990s.

9. Cadet Field House

The Cadet Field House is a multi-purpose facility that includes a basketball arena, indoor track and ice hockey rink. Like Falcon Stadium, the track is the second-highest elevation of any track in the country. Across from the seats, there’s a beautiful artwork display of the U.S. Air Force Academy and its attractions.

The U.S. Air Force Academy features several diverse dining options, including the student union, Domino’s, Subway, buffets and Starbucks coffee products. Dining options are located throughout the campus.

Even More to See at the U.S. Air Force Academy

In addition to attractions like those listed above, you can find stunning artwork and architecture throughout the campus. Check out the Pegasus statue outside Doolittle Hall, check out the unique architecture of Polaris Hall, and see a statue of the U.S. Air Force’s first leader, Gen. Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, outside Arnold Hall. 

There are also impressive views of the campus at the Academic Overlook and the Athletic Overlook. Watch the cadets in action during the Cadet Noon Meal Formation, when cadets march to lunch together.

Visit the U.S. Air Force Academy and More Near Liberty Heights

In addition to the U.S. Air Force Academy, the Liberty Heights Senior Living community in Colorado Springs is close to so many other attractions for residents and visitors. Destinations include the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum , the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts and U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center Visitor Center . 

When you live in Colorado Springs, there’s always something new to explore. Visitors who come to the area have plenty to discover, as well.

>> Read “ Liberty Heights: Top 12 Attractions in Liberty Heights’ Colorado Springs ”

If you’re interested in independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing and rehabilitation for seniors, learn about the Liberty Heights Senior Lifestyle options in Colorado Springs . Find out more about Senior Lifestyle, or schedule a tour today.

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