A Strategic Move: The Birth of Olympic City USA

The roots of Colorado Springs’ Olympic identity date back to the late 1970s. In 1978, the U.S. Olympic Committee—now known as the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC)—relocated its headquarters from New York to Colorado Springs. The decision was driven by several key factors: the city’s high-altitude environment, its dedication to developing world-class training facilities, and a forward-thinking local vision aligned with the evolving needs of American athletes.

That same year, the passage of the Amateur Sports Act empowered the USOC to oversee amateur athletics nationwide, making Colorado Springs the logical home for a centralized Olympic hub. Soon after, athletes began training in the city, laying the foundation for generations of Olympic and Paralympic excellence.

World-Class Facilities and a High-Altitude Advantage

Sitting at more than 6,000 feet above sea level, Colorado Springs offers a natural training advantage. High-altitude conditioning helps athletes build endurance and stamina that translate into peak performance on the world stage. The city has embraced this advantage through the development of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, a sprawling complex that hosts more than 15,000 elite athletes each year.

From swimming and gymnastics to wrestling, fencing, and beyond, the training center is more than a collection of facilities—it is a proving ground where discipline, resilience, and ambition come together.

Cultural Landmarks and a Spirit of Community

Colorado Springs’ Olympic legacy extends far beyond competition and training. Cultural landmarks such as the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum celebrate the stories of past and present Olympians, educate visitors about the Olympic movement, and inspire future generations to chase greatness.

That same spirit of excellence is woven into daily life throughout the city. Residents and visitors can run the same trails as elite athletes, challenge themselves on the Manitou Incline, or stand atop Pikes Peak—America’s Mountain. The presence of five military installations, including the U.S. Air Force Academy, further reinforces a culture grounded in service, discipline, and national pride.

Local Businesses Supporting National Athletes

Olympic City USA is not defined by athletes alone—it thrives because of partnerships between sports organizations, the community, and local businesses that support elite performance in meaningful ways.

One such example is Revolution Jewelry Works, a Colorado Springs–based custom jewelry studio that has proudly partnered with U.S. Figure Skating. This collaboration reflects a shared dedication to precision, artistry, and excellence—values that resonate deeply within the Olympic movement. Revolution Jewelry Works creates meaningful, custom-crafted pieces that celebrate achievement, perseverance, and the moments that define an athlete’s journey.
(Learn more about this partnership here: Revolution Jewelry Works Partners with U.S. Figure Skating.)

Building on that momentum, Revolution Jewelry Works is also preparing to work with USA Volleyball, further strengthening its connection to America’s elite athletic community and reinforcing Colorado Springs’ role as a hub where craftsmanship and sport intersect.

Economic Impact and Lasting Partnerships

Olympic City USA is more than a title—it represents a long-term partnership between Colorado Springs and the USOPC, supported by major investments in infrastructure, facilities, and community development. Multi-million-dollar renovations to the USOPC headquarters, upgrades to training centers, and new sports venues have helped fuel economic growth, tourism, and national recognition.

These investments attract not only athletes and sporting events, but also businesses and organizations that align with the city’s values of excellence and innovation.

A Destination for Inspiration and Achievement

Colorado Springs has evolved into a place where champions are developed, legacies are honored, and inspiration is everywhere—from mountain trails to medal ceremonies. Its unique blend of athletic prestige, cultural depth, and outdoor adventure makes it an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit.

Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a passionate sports fan, or someone who values dedication and craftsmanship, Colorado Springs is a city where the American spirit—and the pursuit of excellence—truly comes alive.