Sanatorium past still visible today — from Manitou huts to historic porches
KKTV
Last updated: July 22, 2026
Sanatorium structures in Manitou Springs are being repurposed into modern storefronts, yet their history is rooted in a significant and challenging period of Colorado's past. These small buildings, once integral to the era of health resorts and sanatoriums, now represent a blend of historical preservation and contemporary commercial use.
- Historically, Manitou Springs was a destination for those seeking the curative properties of its mineral springs, leading to the construction of numerous sanatoriums and related facilities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The architectural remnants, such as characteristic porches and compact building designs, are still evident.
- These structures served as places of rest and recovery for individuals, often suffering from tuberculosis and other ailments, who were drawn to the town's perceived therapeutic environment. The economic and social landscape of Manitou Springs was heavily influenced by this influx of visitors and the development of its healthcare infrastructure.
- Today, many of these former sanatorium outbuildings and associated structures have been transformed. They are being utilized as shops, cafes, and galleries, integrating historical architecture into the present-day commercial fabric of the town. This adaptive reuse preserves the unique heritage of Manitou Springs while contributing to its ongoing vitality. The visible presence of these buildings serves as a constant reminder of the town's past as a prominent health resort.
