The Spread:
Known as the "Grande Dame of the Rockies," the Broadmoor, an Italian Renaissance-style hotel with a pink stucco façade, was built in 1918 by wealthy entrepreneur Spencer Penrose, who wanted the property to rival the best European hotels. With its consistent five-star ratings, the current Broadmoor—with 700 rooms and a top-rated spa—fulfills Penrose's dream.

Although this upscale resort attracts many corporate groups, the hotel works for families because of the layout, activities, pools, and children’s program. Instead of one mammoth structure, several buildings surround a man-made pond referred to as "the lake," so there's plenty of room for everyone.

Find the best rate at the: The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs here.

Why Families Love It:
In summer, families congregate around the lake as well as the 11,000-gallon pool, complete with slides, a zero-entry area for little kids, and a children's play section. Swimmers like the lap pool and teens (16 and over) as well as work-weary parents appreciate the hotel's well-appointed spa with its facials, herbal wraps, mud baths, and massages.

Take pedal boats out on the "lake," visit the animals in the nearby Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, horseback ride, golf at the resort's three courses, and play tennis. The concierge can book mountain-bike rides down Pikes Peak, llama treks in the canyons, whitewater-rafting trips, and guided hikes through the striking sandstone formations found in the Garden of Gods.

At the Bee Bunch, available Memorial Day through Labor Day for ages three to six and seven to 12, kids go on pony rides, scavenger hunts, and nature hikes, fish in the lake, attend tennis and golf clinics, watch magic shows, and visit the zoo.

Special Events & Activities:
Over the July 4th and Labor Day weekend, the Broadmoor ramps up the family fun with daylong activities. When staying at the Broadmoor, be sure to take the nearby Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the 14,110-foot summit.