The Old North End in Colorado Springs is a neighborhood where history, charm, and community spirit come together. With its leafy streets, stately turn-of-the-century homes, and welcoming neighbors, the Old North End (often called “The ONE” by locals) is a beloved pocket of the city just north of downtown. Whether you’re a young family, professional, or someone drawn to neighborhoods with character, life in the Old North End stands out in unique ways.
A Close-Knit Community with a Friendly Vibe
One of the first things new residents notice is the genuine friendliness in the Old North End. It’s not uncommon to see neighbors chatting on front porches along Wood Avenue or waving from bicycles on Tejon Street. Block parties, garden tours, and holiday parades are popular, giving the neighborhood a small-town feel despite its proximity to the heart of Colorado Springs.
Many homes still display historic markers, and homeowners take pride not just in their properties but in the neighborhood’s legacy. The Old North End Neighborhood Association (ONEN) is very active, promoting everything from historic preservation to community safety and organizing events that help bring neighbors together all year long.
Distinctive Housing Types
If you appreciate older architecture, the Old North End offers some of the finest in the city. Housing here consists mainly of:
- Victorian and Edwardian Homes: Elaborately detailed, these homes built from the late 1800s to early 1900s are known for their grand porches, gables, and original woodwork.
- Craftsman Bungalows: These smaller, arts-and-crafts-style homes line leafy side streets like San Miguel and Uintah.
- Classic Colonials and Cottage Styles: Scattered throughout, these offer quaint charm and manageable footprints.
The result is a neighborhood filled with character—there are almost no cookie-cutter homes. Yards are often large, with mature trees and lovingly maintained gardens. Rental properties are less common, but some historic homes do offer charming carriage house apartments above detached garages.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
One of the defining features of the Old North End is its walkability. Wide sidewalks and deep parkways make walks along streets like Cascade Avenue a daily delight. Many residents walk or bike to downtown Colorado Springs, which is less than a mile away—perfect for grabbing coffee at Story Coffee, browsing local shops, or attending events at the Pikes Peak Center.
Essentials like grocery stores and pharmacies are only a short drive away, and local favorites like La Baguette and Urban Steam are quick trips for dining out. For those who commute, quick access to I-25 means getting around the rest of the city is straightforward.
Family-Friendliness and Excellent Schools
Ask a resident why they love the Old North End, and you’ll hear about its family-friendly atmosphere. Children walk and ride bikes to among the city’s best schools:
- Steele Elementary: Located right in the heart of the neighborhood on Weber Street.
- North Middle School: Just a few blocks away, also well-regarded.
- Palmer High School: Only a quick bike ride, famous for its International Baccalaureate program.
The neighborhood also boasts several high-quality preschools and summer camps, and families often gather at community events, the Steele Carnival, or playgrounds.
Parks, Trees, and Green Spaces
The Old North End is green, shaded, and inviting. Monument Valley Park borders its western edge, offering miles of Colorado Springs’ prettiest trails. The park has tennis courts, playgrounds, and a large off-leash dog area—perfect for pets and active families. Younger children love Boulder Park, with its renovated play equipment and open lawn for picnics.
Tree-lined streets are not just for show—they provide a natural canopy, making summer strolls pleasant. The neighborhood’s annual garden tour is famous for showcasing lovingly maintained yards, and many residents are passionate about their flowerbeds and vegetable plots.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Historically, the Old North End is considered one of the safer neighborhoods in Colorado Springs. The strong sense of community means neighbors tend to look out for each other, and regular meetings with city police help keep everyone informed. While no urban neighborhood is completely free from petty crime, residents report feeling comfortable walking pets at night or letting kids bike to a friend’s house down the block.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is another major draw. The Old North End is within easy reach of:
- Downtown Colorado Springs: Less than five minutes by car or a scenic stroll.
- Penrose Hospital: A significant employer, just off North Nevada Avenue.
- Colorado College: Situated on the south side of the neighborhood, with its beautiful campus open for walks and attending public lectures or performances.
Other major employers, like UC Health or the city’s tech firms, are quickly accessible via nearby highways.
Resident Favorites: What Makes Old North End Special
Residents agree—the Old North End is much more than its pretty homes and tree-lined streets. Some of their favorite things about living here include:
- The annual Old North End Home Tour, which celebrates neighborhood history and architecture.
- Watching the city’s big events—like the Pikes Peak Marathon or Fourth of July parade—pass right along their block.
- The pride in preservation, with neighbors joining together to protect century-old trees and maintain historic charm.
- Easy access to arts and culture via Colorado College, which often opens its galleries and theaters to the public.
Considering a Move: Honest Advice
Living in the Old North End isn’t for everyone. Home prices tend to be higher due to demand and the costs of maintaining historic properties. Parking can be tricky during big events, and the neighborhood’s popularity means homes move quickly.
However, for those who value community spirit, walkability, and historic charm, the Old North End consistently delivers. Many who move here quickly find themselves deeply attached, caught up in the same love for the neighborhood that has defined it for generations.
If you want to live somewhere that feels connected, green, and authentically Colorado Springs, the Old North End is hard to beat.