Book excerpt: The breathtaking views of Colorado Springs from the summit of Pikes Peak inspired Katharine Lee Bates unforgettable anthem, “America the Beautiful.” The city embodies some of the best that the West has to offer, and any visit to the region will be full of such inspiring vistas. To maximize your visit, 100 Things to Do in Colorado Springs Before You Die offers insider tips and itineraries for enjoying the outdoor adventures, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment in this stunning gem of a city. Sip lattes at the world’s first (and maybe only!) tiny-house coffee shop: Story Coffee Company. Be delightfully disgusted by the largest privately owned insect collection at the May Natural History Museum. Tour the U.S. Olympic Training Center for a peek at the “anti-gravity” treadmills and perhaps an Olympic athlete in training! Snap a selfie with one of the unique public art sculptures in downtown Colorado Springs. Author Kirsten Akens shares a local’s insight from the perspective of both a longtime resident and a journalist with a skill for digging below the surface. With this book as your guide, you’re guaranteed to hit all the highlights while learning even more about the city along the way.