Travel with Terri – U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is one of the best attractions in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The 60,000-square foot Museum is dedicated to U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes and their compelling stories, featuring the artifacts, media, and technology behind these amazing athletes who make the United States so proud.

The Museum focuses on the core values of the Olympic and Paralympic movements: friendship, respect, and excellence; determination, equality, inspiration, and courage. There are countless galleries to enjoy. Here are a few of my favorites:

Introduction to Olympics: On the third floor I learned about the history of the ancient Games and the origins of the modern Olympic and Paralympic movements. The marquee exhibit in this gallery is a collection of Olympic torches. There is a full set dating back to 1936 when the first Olympic torch relay was held. Surprisingly, I got to hold one of the torches. It was a surreal experience!

Athlete Training: Having learned about the origins of the Olympic and Paralympic movements, I embarked on the journeys that Team USA athletes take to get to the Games. And it’s impressive! In this space, guests try six fun interactive sports demonstrations.

Parade of Nations: Here I experienced walking into the Olympic stadium alongside members of Team USA. Guests start in the tunnel before entering a 360-degree, multimedia experience that simulates the Parade of Nations during an Opening Ceremony. It was exhilarating.

But the highlight of my visit was getting to meet several Olympians like Bob Beamon who won the gold medal in the 1964 Mexico City games…and amazingly, 58 years later Beamon’s Olympic record has never been broken.

This Museum will really help you understand how these exceptional athletes became Olympians. It’s very insightful and inspiring and made me feel so proud to be an American!

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