Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, Colorado Springs

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is a prominent stone tower that stands tall above Colorado Springs. It was constructed in 1937 as a scenic lookout point. Interestingly, the tower initially lacked a name and was primarily conceived as a picturesque destination. However, its nomenclature took on new significance when the renowned vaudevillian cowboy humorist, Will Rogers, tragically perished in a plane crash. Spencer Penrose, the creator of the tower and a close friend of Rogers, decided to honor his late friend's memory by dedicating the monumental structure to him.

Rising to a height of 80 feet, the tower comprises multiple floors accessible via a central winding staircase. The five floors within the tower serve different purposes, with the ground floor adorned with murals depicting local history, three floors dedicated to celebrating Will Rogers' life, and a basement-level shrine where the ashes of Spencer Penrose and his wife rest.

Outside the tower, visitors are welcomed by bronze busts of both Rogers and Penrose. The panoramic views from the tower provide breathtaking vistas of Colorado Springs, creating a picturesque setting. It is worth noting that the Shrine of the Sun is now situated within the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo grounds, accessible to visitors with entry to the zoo.

While the shrine may seem more solemn than expected for a humorist's tribute, the juxtaposition adds a unique charm, making any laughter shared there all the more vibrant. To reach the shrine, visitors must embark on a journey through the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, navigating a winding mountainside road that offers awe-inspiring views of the city, albeit not recommended for those with a fear of heights.