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US Air Force Academy

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US Air Force Academy Pixabay Public Domain

Welcome to one of the top tourist attractions in Colorado Springs, the U.S. Air Force Academy. Created in 1954, this complex serves as a military organization and university all in one with the purpose of training the country’s future airmen. The idea came from Airpower leaders, who were interested in creating a school focusing on the art of war in the air. The grounds here are spectacular, as you will see as you enter the North Gate, the visitor gate and entrance into the academy. Be sure you bring along at least one form of government-issued ID, it will be necessary at the gate upon arrival. On the campus, you will quickly see the 10th Air Base wing which provides logistical, medical, fire response, security, civil engineering, family care, and medical support for the community of 25,000 staying here at any given time.  

Inside the Barry Goldwater U.S. Air Force Academy Visitor Center, named for a former Arizona governor, your group will find a wealth of information on the academy's history, as well as current cadet life. This impressive 36,000 square foot facility houses exhibits, a snack bar, and a gift shop, as well as access to a nature trail leading to Cadet Chapel, the architecturally astounding complex your eyes,  will surely spot in an instant. In this visitor center, you can view a movie about the cadets and aircraft experience in the theater, or stroll among the many exhibits featuring such things as the important four pillars of excellence and personal academy info such as the current superintendent, commanding officer, and other staff through both video and static displays! This stop is one educational and culturally relevant information journey that your group won’t easily forget!

Written by Danielle

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Access To and Tours of Cadet Area for AOG Members

Responding to requests, the AOG has created a program to allow Academy Graduates escorted access to the cadet area. We will make every effort to arrange necessary escorts whenever contacted, 10-business day notice is needed to schedule a volunteer.

Visits with Cadet, USAFA Staff Members and Departments

AOG members who wish to visit a cadet, Academy staff members or department should contact the cadet/staff member/department directly so they may arrange for your escort. AOG Customer Service will be pleased to provide telephone numbers or email addresses of individuals or departments.

Most of the Academy is open to all tourists. You may visit the Visitors Center, Chapel, Arnold Hall, the Field House, and Hall of Excellence without an escort. The Cadet Area (Terrazzo) has always been closed to the public, including graduates, and is now fenced. Special access is required to tour the Cadet Area. The AOG will make every effort to provide tours of the Cadet Area at times requested for the member, on occasion, AOG staff may not be available to conduct them. If you are not a member, AOG Customer Service will be pleased to sign you up for membership.

Tours will be conducted during normal duty days. Cadet activities within the cadet area and weather, though, could cause cancellation of tours on certain days. No tours are authorized when basic cadets are training in the cadet area, during reunion weekends, holidays, or when Cadet Wing training dictates. An AOG volunteer will contact you to arrange your tour.

The AOG tour program supports purchasing Memorial Cabinets for graduates killed in recent worldwide conflicts. The six foot, wooden, display cabinets are placed in the deceased graduate's squadron and filled with personal and military tributes. Any contribution made to the tour program will go directly to this endeavor.

Groups of more than twenty require coordination with the cadet wing and security forces. Please contact the Visitor's Center.

How to Arrange an AOG Escorted Tour for an AOG Member

Requests for tours should be made as far in advance as possible. To schedule a tour, please fill out the form below.

Request a Tour Online!

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United States Air Force Academy in Colorado

The Academy is one of the most popular attractions in Colorado, welcoming more than one million visitors each year.

Find out everything you need to know about visiting.

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado , located north of Colorado Springs, is an institution that educates, trains and inspires men and women to become officers of character motivated to lead the United States Air Force and Space Force in service to our nation.

Hours & Visitor Info

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs is open to visitors daily from 5:30 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and the Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m . The Visitor Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Visitors to the Academy can enter through either the South or North Gate, which can be accessed from Exit 150 or 156 on Interstate 25, just north of downtown Colorado Springs. The public is welcome to use the Arnold Hall food court, hiking and biking trails, the stables and golf course. Stop by the Visitor Center for more information.

All guests over the age of 18 are required to have a valid state-issued ID, Defense Department ID, or passport. Random vehicle inspections may also be required. Learn more about getting on base .

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Top 11 Must-See Attractions at the U.S. Air Force Academy

1. barry goldwater visitor center, 2. u.s. air force academy planetarium.

Travel to space or other far off lands in free, immersive screenings presented on an incredible 8K projected display with surround sound.

3. Noon Meal Formation

Watch as thousands of cadets march in formation to Mitchell Hall to the Air Force song and other anthems.

4. Cadet Chapel

Closed for a major restoration until Spring 2027, the stunning chapel features striking architectural elements inspired by Air Force vehicles.

5. B-52 Display

It'll be hard to miss this massive static display of a B-52 bomber that served in the Vietnam War and is the last bomber in aviation history to have downed aircraft with machine guns.

6. Cadet Field House

Cheer on the Falcons at this massive sports arena, home to basketball, volleyball, ice hockey and indoor track competitions.

7. Academic Overlook

Soak in your surroundings and marvel at campus buildings at this scenic overlook.

8. Athletic Overlook

Nearby the Academic Overlook, this vantage point offers sweeping views of the Academy's sprawling sports fields.

9. Arnold Hall

Home to a 2,900-seat theater and a food court, the Hall also features commemorative displays of the Tuskegee Airmen and other notable historical Air Force figures.

10. Doolittle Hall

A giant Pegasus statue greets you at Doolittle Hall, home to the alumni association. Nearby, find the Challenge Bridge, Mall of Heroes, Memorial Wall, and Southeast Asia Pavilion.

11. Falcon Stadium

Sit among 46,692 fans as they cheer on the Falcons at this impressive football stadium, also host to the Academy's annual graduation celebration.

In addition to state-of-the-art technology and modern architecture, this campus offers eleven different sites for civilians to explore.

U.S. Air Force Academy Chapel

PLEASE NOTE:

The U.S. Air Force Academy Chapel is closed for a major restoration that is estimated to last until spring 2027. Those interested in seeing the Cadet Chapel can check out the virtual tour .

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado is perhaps best known for its stunning chapel. Soaring 150 feet toward the Colorado sky, the Cadet Chapel is an all-faith house of worship designed to meet the spiritual needs of cadets. It contains centers of worship for Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Buddhist chapels, an All-Faiths Room, and a Falcon Circle, each with its own entrance. The Chapel is capable of holding services in all rooms at one time.

The aluminum, glass and steel structure features 17 spires. There is no significance to this number. Original designs were too expensive, so changes were made, among them a reduction in the number of spires. The changes did not alter the basic design or the interior square footage of the chapel, however. The chapel structure cost $3.5 million to build. Furnishings, pipe organs, liturgical fittings and adornments of the chapel were presented as gifts from individuals, organizations, and donations from Easter offerings made at Air Force bases. The chapel was named one of CNN's most epic churches in America .

U.S. Air Force Academy Planetarium

The Planetarium features free shows for cadets, school groups and the public. Enjoy shows such as Black Holes, Fighter Pilot and Superpower Dogs. One of the oldest structures at the Academy, it was originally used to teach cadets celestial navigation. Now, after a refurbishment provided by generous donations, the advanced technology and capabilities serve a new generation of cadets leading the way in space, as well as STEM education for K-12 students and community outreach.

Check out the latest schedule of free public shows and enjoy the reclining theater seats and 8K projectors offering a 360-degree near-hemispheric screen to deliver a visually immersive field-of-view.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the united states air force academy in colorado.

The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado is located just north of Colorado Springs on a 18,500-acre campus that sits against the beautiful Front Range mountain range. Colorado Springs was selected as the site of the Academy at the recommendation of a special commission appointed by the secretary of the Air Force upon the Academy's formation by Congress in 1954. The commission had traveled 21,000 miles and toured hundreds of sites during their research process, ultimately selecting Colorado Springs as their top choice overall. Construction on the Air Force Academy began in the summer of 1955.

What kinds of hiking and biking trails are available at the U.S. Air Force Academy?

The U.S. Air Force Academy maintains over 30 miles of trails which visitors can enjoy. Pack sunscreen and layers of clothing as the mountain weather can change quickly. Bring a buddy to explore the Rampart Range and carry water with you to stay hydrated. Here’s a list of all the trails available to explore. To view a full map of U.S. Air Force Academy trails, click here .

Are there dining options available for visitors on base?

Yes, there are plenty of options for grabbing a snack or meal while you are on the base. They include fast food and favorite chains, pub fare and several restaurants serving lunch and dinner. Here is a  list of all the dining options  and their hours of operation.

What kind of events happen at the U.S. Air Force Academy?

There are events year-round at the base. For a full schedule, visit the Academy’s calendar of events . The U.S. Air Force Academy cadets compete on 27 NCAA Division I teams, primarily within the Mountain West Conference. To get tickets to an upcoming game and cheer on the Falcons during their most popular sporting events including football, basketball, volleyball and hockey, call 719-472-1895 or visit www.goairforcefalcons.com .

Who attends the U.S. Air Force Academy?

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado is among the most selective colleges in the United States. Candidates are judged based on their academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, athletics and character. To gain admission, candidates must also pass a fitness test, undergo a thorough medical examination and secure a nomination, which usually comes from one of the candidate's members of Congress. Recent incoming classes have usually consisted of about 1,400 cadets; just under 1,000 of those usually make it through to graduation. Cadets pay no tuition but are committed to serving a number of years in the military service after graduation. Graduates of the four-year program receive a Bachelor of Science degree and most are commissioned as second lieutenants.

Is camping available for youth groups or scouts?

The U.S. Air Force Academy is proud to host local youth organizations on base for camping. Our designated campground for overnight stays is conveniently located near the North Gate. The primitive campground is adjacent to the B-52 static display and available to reserve year-round . There is no fee to reserve the campground. In order to allow time for processing, please make your reservations at least 45 days in advance. Nestled along the base of the Front Range, the Academy preserves over 18,500 acres of forests and mountain terrain, ideal for outdoor activities.

Due to base regulations, groups camping overnight must have a designated sponsor with a valid Department of Defense/military ID card.

You may not be able to go to 55 attractions in 5 days, but we did.

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• Service Academy Discussion
• Air Force Academy - USAFA

USAFA Cadet Experience / Visit

• Thread starter Candidate_Dad
• Start date Jan 30, 2020

Candidate_Dad

• Jan 30, 2020

Would anyone know if there is a way to get a sense of cadet life at USAFA outside of the Discover USAFA events? Our DD has a full appointment to USCGA and just received her MOC NOM to USAFA. She's 3Q and one never knows how this will play out but if she receives an appointment to USAFA she'd love to get a sense of its culture, etc. firsthand before making a final decision. Any insight would be much appreciated!  

How do you know that she's 3Q for USAFA? Did they tell her that? This book helped my kids. The Air Force Academy Candidate Book , by Sue Ross.  

Schedule: ~0600 Wake up 0630/0645 Morning Formation in the Hallway or in our meeting rooms 0730-1130 Class 1135 Noon Meal Formation (Marching outside) 1230-1330 (Depending on day will have military training during this time) 1330-1530 Class 1600 Military Training (depending on day) 1700-1900 Dinner 1915-1945 Evening Military Training  

Know people that went to USCGA...More military/training focused. USAFA allows for cadets to have a life outside of the military training and do what they want to do unlike the USCGA where they are mainly restricted to base most of the weekends and cannot travel off base throughout the week.  

trackandfield08

abcde123 said: Know people that went to USCGA...More military/training focused. USAFA allows for cadets to have a life outside of the military training and do what they want to do unlike the USCGA where they are mainly restricted to base most of the weekends and cannot travel off base throughout the week. Click to expand...

trackandfield08 said: This is not an accurate description of USCGA liberty policies. The amount of time off you have is equivalent to what class you are in, rarely is the entire Corps restricted to base for a weekend (unless things have radically changed since I graduated 5 years ago). At most, Saturday mornings are reserved for military training/formal inspections or cadets have to attend the football game that afternoon. @ekb1398 please help me out if I'm wrong on anything here. The standard USCGA cadet liberty policy is: 1/c Cadets: Thursday- 1600-2200, Friday- Last Military Obligation (LMO) -2400, Saturday/Sunday: Saturday LMO - Sunday 2200 (overnight) 2/c Cadets: Thursday - No Liberty, Friday - LMO -2400, Saturday/Sunday: Saturday LMO - Sunday 1900 (overnight) 3/c Cadets: Thursday - No Liberty, Friday - LMO -2400, Saturday - 1200-0100, Sunday - 0730-1900 4/c Cadets: Thursday - No Liberty, Friday - No Liberty, Saturday - 1200-0100, Sunday - 0730-1800 Additionally, the Superintendent or Commandant of Cadets can award longer weekends (two night overnights) during holiday weekends or due to other events. Special requests can also be routed for cadets to go out to community service events, volunteer training (EMT/Firefighting), any special event that's happening on a weekday, dinners with their division, etc. during the week. Those require approval before doing so. At one point, cadets in leadership positions (mostly 1/c - seniors) also had liberty on Wednesdays. I'm not sure if that's still allowed. That being said, I have heard from USAFA alumni that completed exchange semesters that CGA was much more regulated/strict from a military perspective. I attribute that to the size of the Corps of Cadets at USCGA (1,000) compared to the number of cadets at USAFA. Anyway, I don't want to take away from the purpose of this discussion, just wanted to clarify so OP can have an accurate comparison. Click to expand...

USAFA Parent & ALO

If DD is appointed to USAFA, there are normally two appointee days in mid-late April. During these days appointees can go to class and eat lunch with a cadet along with the normal tours etc. When we went, we called ahead and admissions arranged a private tour of the cyber labs with one of the professors.  

BBQ-Devil said: If DD is appointed to USAFA, there are normally two appointee days in mid-late April. During these days appointees can go to class and eat lunch with a cadet along with the normal tours etc. When we went, we called ahead and admissions arranged a private tour of the cyber labs with one of the professors. Click to expand...

It is relatively easy to get a tour date with a cadet at USAFA and shadow a current cadet. I will warn you, once she steps foot on the Tzo every other opportunity will fall a great distance down the list.  

• Feb 10, 2020

Do I Meet the Requirements?

Standards are high because expectations are high.

The United States Air Force Academy is one of the most competitive schools in the nation. You must meet high academic, physical, character and medical standards to be eligible for an appointment. Knowing what these standards are is the first step to surpassing them.

Basic Requirements

Every cadet is different, but to earn an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy, you must meet certain basic requirements.

• Be at least 17 but not past your 23rd birthday by July 1 of the year you enter the Academy.
• Be a United States citizen.
• Be unmarried with no dependents.
• Be of good moral character.

Academic Proving You Belong Begins in the Classroom

Cadets who attend the U.S. Air Force Academy can expect to be challenged academically every day. That’s why we look for those who demonstrate a well-rounded academic record that includes exceptional class rank, GPA and college admission test results.

“I knew there’d be challenges, but that’s part of the reason why I wanted to come here. The best thing about the Academy is the opportunities that come with it.”

Physical Preparing Cadets Physically as Well as Mentally

Physical fitness is an integral part of Academy life, whether it’s participating in sports or Basic Cadet Training (BCT). Therefore, applicants must successfully complete the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which tests their strength, agility, speed and endurance.

Character Officers of Character Begin as Cadets of Character

To lead others as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force requires high moral character. That’s why at the U.S. Air Force Academy, we look at more than grades and physical fitness. Every cadet goes through a qualitative review as part of the application process.

Medical Making Sure You’re Physically Fit for the Job

To prepare cadets for their careers in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force, we require applicants to meet and maintain certain physical standards during their four years at the Academy.

Commitment Spend Your Career Leading Others, Not Paying Off Debt

An education at the U.S. Air Force Academy is provided at no cost to cadets. Instead, once you graduate, you will commission as an officer in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force. The length of your commitment will depend on your career path, but the benefits will last a lifetime.

Your Path to Excellence Starts Here