1892 Victorias Keep Bed and Breakfast

Haiti & Chilean Relief Fundraiser

2010-03-02T08:06:00.000-08:00

Haiti and Chilean Relief Fundraiser

Stay at any of our bed and breakfast inns or cottages and help Haiti and Chilean earthquake survivors!

1892 Victoria's Keep Bed and Breakfast located at the base of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs is one of 10 Bed and Breakfast Inns, and Cottages participating in a Haiti and Chilean Relief Fundraiser and donating to the Red Cross to help. 1892 Victoria's Keep offers 6 beautifully appointed rooms, 4 suites offer jacuzzi tubs for two and fire places. Share a romantic weekend with us and relax and rejuvenate.

Stay with any of the Authentic Inn bed and breakfasts or one of our cottages for the next two weekends, March 5th through March 7th, and March 12th through 13th and we will donate 10% of our your stay to help with the Haiti and Chiliean relief efforts.

Visit our website at www.victoriaskeep.com and check out our gorgeous rooms and suites and scrumptious breakfasts. Stay in one of our cottages or the bed and breakfast inn and while enjoying a weekend getaway you'll also be sharing and helping others in need.

For other participating inns, Cabins and Cottages, see the Authentic Inns and Cottages of Pikes Peak website or call us at 800-905-5337

Your Colorado Honeymoon and Romantic Getaway at Pikes Peak

2010-01-23T16:07:00.000-08:00

At 1892 Victoria's Keep Bed & Breakfast we believe in Victorian romance with all the modern day amenities. We are a Queen Ann Victorian built in 1892 with a fabulous wrap around porch to sip your lemonade or favorite beverage and slowly rock the time away if you wish. Colorado vactions provides the perfect romantic getaway or honeymoon for any time of year. Best of all is Manitou Springs at the base of Pikes Peak, where you can enjoy numerous activities like horseback riding, hiking, biking and attractions. Majestic mountain ranges and availability of comfy Bed and breakfasts and cabins make Colorado a romantic getaway location. Selecting to spend your honeymoon in Colorado affords a couple the romantic destination that also has a selection of exciting activities available.

Our romantic suites have Jacuzzi tubs for two, fireplaces and sitting areas for you to relax, rejuvenate, and exhilarate your senses.
Contact us for more information about a romantic stay or honeymoon. We offer extra packages to ensure your romantic weekend or holiday is an experience that you will not forget. Consider an in suite couples massage, chocolate covered strawberries, or a cheese and cracker basket. Let us know how we can make your time together special.
Visit our website, we offer a real time reservation system to show our availability or contact us at 800-905-5337 for your personal reservation. We can't wait to see you!

Mumbo Gumbo Cookoff and Carnivale Parade in Manitou Springs

2010-01-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

February 13th bring another outstanding and colorful event the Mumbo Gumbo Cook-off and the Carnivale Parade. First....Manitou Springs brings it's Fabulous Chefs together to compete with their secret recipes! Everyone can participate. Gumbo begins cooking at 8:00 am.at Soda Springs Park. Public tasting will follow the judging (10:45 am) 2 tastings for a dollar! There is no entry fee for contestants and winners will receive cash prizes and trophies. Competition is limited to 18 entries and; pre-registration is required. Contestant entry applications are due to the Manitou Chamber by 5 pm on Friday, February 5th. Immediately following the Mumbo Gumbo Cook-off is the Colorful Carnivale Parade is in Downtown. Come visit and stay with us at www.victoriaskeep.com just 2 blocks from downtown! Combine this fun event with your romantic Valentine's Day weekend!

Visit the King and Queen of our Mardi Gras event and all of the colorful costumes.

Fruit Cakes Flying in Manitou Springs Colorado

2010-01-07T12:56:00.000-08:00

Fruitcakes are a Fly'n Again In Manitou Springs!

The 15th annual Great Fruitcake Toss returns to Manitou Springs and The High School Track - Saturday, January 9, 2010. The event is held the High School Track where Fruitcakes can fly, fly, fly! Visit the Fruit Cake Man!
Registration begins at 9:30 am and the Competitions begin at 10 am.
Rules:
1. Participants should bring their own fruitcakes. Fruitcakes must contain glaceed fruits, nuts and flour. They cannot contain anything inedible. Fruitcakes will not be “taste tested”. Fruitcakes must be visible to the inspectors, no duct tape, foil, etc. All Fruitcakes will be examined by the “Fruitcake Toss Tech Inspectors.”
2. A limited number of fruitcakes will be available to rent for $1.00 if you were not fortunate enough to receive one of your own or if you were unable to find the time or recipe to bake one.
3. For the distance competitions there will be two weight classes:
Standard 2 pound only
Heavy Weight 4 pound only

There are categories to win -with your flying fruitcake:

The Fruitcake Launch - no motors, engines, gasoline, diesel, etc.) The maximum length of the hurling device will be 10 feet.

Pneumatics or air powered devices will be a separate competition.

Kids Toss - 3 age groups (3-5, 6-9, 10-12)
One Girl & One Boy winner in each age group. No weight classes for Fruitcake in Kids Toss.

The Fruitcake Toss - One person physically throwing a 1 pound fruitcake

Standard & Heavy Weight Division for distance - You must use a 2 pound fruitcake for the standard weight distance competition and a 4 pound fruitcake for the Heavy Weight distance competition.

Accuracy with Targets - Targets will be placed out in the park at distances of 75 feet, 125 feet and 175 feet at varying angles.

Come join in the fun and stay with us at 1892 Victoria's Keep Bed & Breakfast at the base of Pikes Peak Enjoy a full gourmet breakfast in the morning and enjoy the crisp January weather. Make sure you dress warm!

Colorado Vacations and The Pikes Peak Cog Railway

2009-12-07T09:21:00.000-08:00

Enjoy your Colorado vacation in the winter in Manitou Springs, Colorado and take a breathtaking ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.

Some history regarding the Cog -- Zalmon Simmons, inventor and founder of the Simmons Beautyrest Mattress Company visited the Pikes Peak region in the late 1880's. Mr. Simmons rode to the summit of Pike's Peak on a mule. The grueling two day trip on a mule was the only way to reach the top in those days. Mr. Simmons was awed by the scenery but determined that the views should be experienced with more comfort in mind. He was relaxing in one of Manitou Springs' mineral baths after his return, when the owner of his Hotel mentioned the idea of a railway to the top. Mr. Simmons agreed with the concept and set out to raise the necessary capital needed to fund the venture.

On June 30th, 1891, the first train made it to the summit carrying a church choir from Denver. A scheduled group of dignitaries had been turned back earlier by a rock slide around 12,000 feet. The railway was now operating.

Pikes Peak is one of Colorado's most famous mountains, where the song "America the Beautiful", was inspired from. Pikes Peak is at an elevation of 14,110 feet and one of the most accessible mountain peaks in the state of Colorado.

Spencer Penrose, the owner of The Broadmoor Hotel acquired the Railway in 1925 and efforts were started to build a compact, self-contained railcar, which could carry fewer passengers during the slow parts of the season and during the winter.

Today, hundreds of people board the train daily and make the summit to Pikes Peak. It's one of the "don't miss while you're here" activities to do. At the top you can see 360 degrees for hundreds of miles in all directions.

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is only 5 blocks from 1892 Victoria's Keep Bed and Breakfast. A Queen Ann Victorian with a wrap around porch with modern day ameneties. Relax, rejuvenate and restore youselves in one of our unique suites complete with fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs for two. Enjoy your Colorado vacation just minutes from a variety of activities, shopping, dining and galleries.

Visit our website at www.victoriaskeep.com or call us for details at 800-905-5337 and begin your holiday today.

Bed and Breakfast Innkeepers of Colorado Conference in Golden, CO

2009-11-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

We are in wonderful Golden, Co participating in the Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers of Colorado state conference. This is the 23rd annual conference and we had the largest group of aspiring innkeepers in attendance. A great group of vendors showed up to support the conference. We also had a fabulous set of guest speakers including Acorn Internet Services where we are all learning about the importance of social media.

Colorado Springs Halloween Special at Pikes Peak

2009-10-25T15:39:00.000-07:00

1892 Victoria's Keep Bed & Breakfast at the base of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs, CO, just 4 miles west of Colorado Springs is offering an extended "Boo-tacular" Halloween special for the dates of October 28th - November 5th. Our expanded Halloween special offers a two night stay! The first night for any room or suite and the second night for $50.00! "Boo-tacular"

Historic Manitou Springs is full of unique boutique shopping and dining establishment. Start your Christmas shopping early. We are only one long block from the main avenue, in front of Miramont Castle and only 5 blocks from the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Garden of the Gods and Academy Riding Stables is only a 5 minute drive away. Come stay and play with us and enjoy one of our scrumptious breakfasts like Eggs Benedict over Savory Waffles or Grand Marnier Stuffed French Toast. We can also accommodate most food allergies.

Events for these dates:

October 28th - Manitou Library Movie Night - "Sleepy Hollow" at 6:45pm
October 30th - Healing Hearts Metaphysical Store - 6:30pm.
Venue 515 Present Zombie Fest & Halloween Party at 6:00pm
Townhouse Lounge presents "John DeHoyos" at 8:00pm
October 31st - Manitou Libary Movie Matinee - Hocus Pocus at 2:00pm
Townhouse Lounge present "The Wheel Billies" at 8:30pm
Ancient Mariner Halloween Bash hosted by "Low Down High" at 9:00pm

Please contact us 719-685-5354 or visit our website at www.victoriaskeep.com. The "Boo-tacular Special" is non-refundable and MUST be mentioned at the time the reservation is made. You must stay during October 28th and November 5th, 2009. Valid on new reservations only. Reservations for more than two nights receive one night for $50, all other nights are booked at our regular rate.

Food Network and Discovery Channel visit Manitou Springs, Colorado for Halloween

2009-10-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

Adam Gertler from the Food Network and the Discovery Channel visited Manitou Springs to be a part of the 15th Annual Emma Crawford Coffin Races. This small mountain town at the base of Pikes Peak can put on an event for Halloween that is spooktacular! The best event of the year! The town exploded with spooks, goblins, the best Emma, best coffin and ware-wolfs abound. Fun and mayhem was had by all, including the Denver Hearse Society, who showcased a variety of dressed hearses. Adam interviewed Retro Moto Toys coffin entry of Mexican wrestlers complete with Mariachi Band. The Mexican Wrestlers were costumed with avenger masks and leather leggings. They were a bit slower than their competition though. The final winner of the coffin races was the Crystal Hillbillies for the 5th year in a row.

Emma Crawford moved to this mountain town just west of Colorado Springs in the late 1800s in hopes that the water from the famous Mineral Springs would help cure her tuberculosis. Emma died in 1890 just before she was to marry. It gets worse! Her last wish was to be buried atop nearby Red Mountain, which she was until her grave gave way due to terrible rains and her remains slid down the side of the mountain. She was later buried in the Manitou Springs Cemetery. The celebration includes teams of four runners in costume and one coffin-rider (Emma) racing down the street in hopes of finishing first.

Put this event on your calendar for next year, and plan your Halloween stay at 1892 Victoria's Keep Bed & Breakfast. Have a Happy Halloween!

15th Annual Emma Crawford Coffin Races at Pikes Peak

2009-10-23T09:22:00.001-07:00

Emmas rides again! Manitou Springs celebrates it's 15th year of coffin races in remembrance of Emma Crawford. Emma moved to this mountain town just west of Colorado Springs, and at the base of Pikes Peak in the late 1800s in hopes that the water from the famous Mineral Springs would help cure her tuberculosis. Emma died in 1890 just before she was to marry. It gets worse! Her last wish was to be buried atop nearby Red Mountain, which she was until her grave gave way due to terrible rains and her remains slid down the side of the mountain. She was later buried in the Manitou Springs Cemetery. The celebration includes teams of four runners in costume and one coffin-rider (Emma) racing down the street in hopes of finishing first. Join in the parade and ghost and haunted house tours as well as Emma Crawford's Wake at nearby Miramont Castle on Friday night.

Stay, play, dress up and join the fun. We still have rooms available for the weekend, call 800-905-5337 or visit www.victoriaskeep.com

Pikes Peak and Manitou Springs offers the Halloween Emma Crawford Wake and Coffin Races

2009-10-07T14:59:00.000-07:00

The legend of Emma Crawford lives!

The 15th annual Emma Crawford Coffin races are underway. The entrants are working towards the required specification for their coffin race along with their signature entourage and prepared for the run up Manitou Ave to the round about. This should be interesting; this is the first year for the round about. I wonder what’s going to happen.

First join us for the Emma Crawford wake in celebration of her death.
In 1889 Emma Crawford came to Manitou Springs in search of her health. She enjoyed the benefits of the crisp mountain air and Manitou Springs famous mineral waters. Emma succumbed to her illness and as she wished was laid to rest on top of Red Mountain. Years later her coffin washed down the granite cliff from torrential rain storms.

Admission includes entrance into Miramont Castle, Victorian wake and among the other guests include Buffalo Bill Cody and his wife, Lillian Russell (aka Diamond Lil), Dr. Davis and of course the original Miramont Castle residents Father Francolon and his mother Madam Marie Francolon.

The event is graced in pure Victorian splendor and you will enjoy Victorian food and beverage in the great hall. Space is limited and reservations are required. For pricing and more information call 685-1011 for reservations. Location: Miramont Castle, 9 Capitol Hill Date: Friday, October 23, 2009 Time: 11:00am-2:00pm MDT

Parade and Coffin races are on Saturday, October 24th beginning at 12pm. We are located right in front of Miramont Castle and only a block from the coffin race track. Stay with us at 1892 Victoria's Keep and join the fun.

High Altitude Happy Hour - Pikes Peak Cog Railway

2009-07-20T23:04:00.001-07:00

Want to stay and play in Manitou Springs? The summer rains have left the mountains verdant, lush and inviting---a perfect setting for the upcoming High Altitude Happy Hour on Friday, August 28. A fundraiser for the Manitou Springs Economic Council, the event offers a combination of socializing, noshing and sightseeing, starting at the Cog Railway Depot and ending after a spectacular train ride to the summit of Pikes Peak.

“The event will begin with a reception hour at 4:15 in the Cog Railway Depot, and then will proceed to the train at 4:45,” says Kitty Clemens, Director of the Economic Development Council. “For $50 per person, guests will be treated to hors d’oeuvres and refreshments from the new Red Mountain Bar and Grill at the Cliff House, and wine tastings from D’Vine Wines of Manitou Springs.” Guests will also receive a special behind the scenes presentation from Cog Railway general manager, Spencer Wren. The train will arrive back at the Depot at 7:50 p.m. Door prizes will also be given away throughout the train ride up. For train schedule information go to: www.cograilway.com

The Colorado Springs Business Journal has come on board as a sponsor of the event, and will offer a special subscription rate to attendees of 1 year for $89. The offer includes a $10 Starbucks gift card, the CSBJ special report, “New Marketing” ($29.99 value), the Book of Leads and the CSBJ how-to-guide.

After the Happy Hour, participants are encouraged to extend their stay in Manitou Springs by dining to live music at the Red Mountain Bar and Grill at the historic Cliff House Hotel. This new addition to the Cliff House Hotel includes a fun new feature, the outdoor fire pit. A relaxed atmosphere and casual dining menu is offered. Reservations are not required. www.thecliffhouse.com/html/RedMountain.html

Advanced reservations for the special Cog train ride are required (call 685-9741) and because this event is a fundraiser, all tickets purchased may be taken as a tax deduction. Why not reward yourself with a relaxing evening of socializing and taking in the view from the Cog train?”

Pikes Peak Race Internation Hill Climb - Manitou Springs

2009-07-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Today racers prepare for the 87th Annual Pikes Peak Hill Climb - the Race to the Clouds!

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest motor sports race in America and a long-standing tradition in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region. The race first competition was in 1916.

In 2009, the race will take place on Sunday, July 19 with race related events all week long. Fan Fest, on Friday, July 17 in downtown Colorado Springs, will feature motorcycle jumpers, two beer gardens, a chili cook-off, live bands and the Denver Bronco Cheerleaders and is expected to draw over 35,000 spectators.

The race is run on a 12.42 mile course with 156 turns that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,110 foot summit of America’s Mountain; Pikes Peak! As the drivers climb toward the summit, the thin air slows reflexes and saps muscle strength. The thin air also robs engines of 30% of their power at the summit. Competitors and vehicles must be in top shape simply to finish...let alone win!

Manitou Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak and shares the beautiful mountain side on the eastern side of the race course. Come enjoy the fun!

Kevin Bacon Plays at Pikes Peak Rocks

2009-06-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

Actor Kevin Bacon and his band the Bacon Brothers will be holding the first concert ever on the top of Pikes Peak, America's most visited mountain on June 27th, 2009 in Manitou Springs, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Rocks concert event is to benefit the international foundation Love Hope Strength. The proceeds will benefit global cancer care and a nationwide bone marrow registration campaign to locate matches for patients with Leukemia and other blood disorders.

The charming town of Manitou Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak and 100 hikers will hike to the top of the 14,110 foot mountain to the concert and enjoy this very special unique event. With Colorado Springs only 4 miles away, the town is expecting big crowds. In addition to the Bacon Brothers, The White Buffalo and Cy Curnin will be playing at Denver's Hard Rock Cafe that evening.

Those wishing to support this initiative can register to hike, purchase tickets for the Hard Rock Cafe celebration, or make a donation at www.lovehopestrength.org.

Colorado Wine Festival - Summer is Here!

2009-06-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

The Colorado Wine Festival marks the beginning of Summer for us in Manitou Springs, Colorado. The festival begins with a Vintner's Tasting on June 5th at the Seven Minute Springs to benefit our natural mineral springs and on June 6th in Memorial Park is the full festival of tastings. Join us with 25 wineries, food, fun and entertainment to be had by all. The unique food and craft vendors that attend the wine festival add their spin on the best made matches for wine. Canyon Spirit SoapWorks makes hand made, polished wine scented soaps, while Pastamore pairs flavored oils to tempt your taste buds and much more. Come and taste and find your favorite wine to take home.