Resorts like the Broadmoor owe as much to their developer’s ego as to anything else. Spencer Penrose, a turn-of-the-century mining magnate, bought what was then a small hotel in the foothills below Pike’s Peak and set out to replace it with something grand enough to rival the finest hotels in the world. To that end, he hired the architectural firm of Warren & Wetmore, who had designed New York City’s Grand Central Station and Biltmore and Ritz-Carlton hotels. From their drawing board emerged a vision of Italian Renaissance splendor in rosy-hued stucco and red tile.
Penrose then imported a battalion of skilled artisans from as far away as Italy to hand-decorate the walls, ceilings, and floors of the public rooms. While they were at it he and his wife traveled the world collecting paintings, sculpture, tapestries, and other fine pieces to furnish the rooms and lobbies. Finally, to complete the project he hired Frederick Law Olmsted, who had laid out New York’s Central Park, to bring order to the foothills landscape, and legendary golf-course architect Donald Ross to design the first of what would eventually be three golf courses. The resort opened in 1918 to great fanfare. The combination of European opulence, a captivating setting, and pure, invigorating mountain air made it an immediate hit with international society. Then as now there was nothing to rival it west of the Mississippi.
Director of Racquet Sports Karen Schott oversees the entire operation, coordinating a highly credentialed, full-time staff of tennis and pickleball coaches and that in summer includes special appearances by current WTA touring pro Allie Kiick and her coach Lisa Raymond, the highly decorated winner of 11 Grand Slam doubles and mixed doubles titles. Also noteworthy are the Broadmoor’s weekend summer and early fall camps (see Events for a complete list) including a special appearance by seven times Grand Slam singles champion Mats Wilander. That camp is followed by several “Tennis With a Taste of Tuscany” weekends that combine tennis with Tuscan cuisine and Italian wines. Special events aside, the on-court activity varies seasonally. It reaches a zenith in summer. During those warm days of outdoor tennis the roster of weekly summer activities features not only the obligatory private lessons but several types of daily clinics, drill sessions, workouts, team competition (in a game called “105”), Quickstart tennis, junior day camps, complimentary round robins, and game matching. All of that is supplemented on selected weekends by adult camps, junior tennis camps, and tailor-made private camps for groups and teams.
Court Complex: Three terraced hard courts and a group of three pickleball cascade east from the tennis and golf pro shops into a complex of 1920s style cottages, each with eight bedrooms, an ideal accommodation choice for families, groups, and teams. The complex is completed by two Har-Tru courts located off a broad patio bordered by lounge chairs and umbrella tables, as if to encourage spectators. Though the weather may be mild enough to allow outdoor play throughout much of the year, the Broadmoor covers two of its hard courts with a bubble in winter.
Altitude Caveat: The Broadmoor stands at just over 6,000 feet above sea level. Expect your endurance to flag in this rarefied air and take extra precautions against sunburn, including the use of an industrial strength sunblock, hat, and sunglasses.
Off Court
Golf Courses: Tee times for any of the following courses can be reserved by calling (719) 577-5790. Play is limited to guest of the resort and members.
East Course: The legendary Donald Ross designed this first of the Broadmoor’s courses in 1918 and it was later redesigned by Robert Trent Jones. It remains the most forgiving of the three with wide fairways and expansive greens. It has played host to many tournaments, including the U.S. Women’s Open Championship in 1995. Par: 70. Length: 5,847-7,091 yards.
West Course: Another Robert Trent Jones design, originally as 9 holes in 1950 and then expanded to 18 in 1965. Its rolling fairways and multi-level greens afford both mountain and city views. Par: 71. Length: 5,375-7,340 yards.
Mountain Course: the most challenging of the three, the Mountain Course was laid out in 1976 by Ed Seay and Arnold Palmer. Though shorter than the others it is also narrower. Its curving, scrub oak-lined fairways crossed by ravines put a premium on accuracy and club selection. Currently, however, only the front 9 is available as reconstruction takes place on the back 9. Par 70. Length: 5,600-6,781 yards.
Spa & Fitness Center: The clearest evidence of the Broadmoor’s intention to appeal to a more active—and perhaps self-indulgent—clientele is its Spa and Fitness Center, which together comprise a four-level, 90,000-square-foot complex done in native stone, Italian tile, and hardwoods. The spa offers a full range of treatments, including massages, facials, milk and mud baths, and herbal wraps, inhalation rooms, several wet treatment rooms. Four of its massage rooms open onto private terraces for treatments outdoors with views of the Rocky Mountains. Its changing and sitting rooms have fireplaces.
The Fitness Center consists of an indoor pool with underwater music and a transparent ceiling, an outdoor lap pool, a mountainside Jacuzzi and lounging deck, an aerobics studio, and a state-of-the-art, attentively staffed gym—with windows on the golf course and mountains—outfitted with cardiovascular equipment and Cybex and other workout machines.
In addition to everything else the Broadmoor has bicycle rentals, paddleboats for use on Cheyenne Lake, a trap and skeet range, a fly-fishing school, and horseback riding.
Children's programs: From late May through Labor Day, the Broadmoor runs a “Bee Bunch” program for children 4-12. One counselor is assigned to every five children. Depending on their age, the activities may include visits to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (on the Broadmoor grounds), swimming in any of the three pools, arts and crafts, pony rides, paddleboating, scavenger hunts, or golf or tennis clinics. A full-day program from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. includes lunch; there are also half day programs, from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. In both cases there is an optional 6-10 p.m. evening program, which includes dinner. Family rates are also available and separate babysitting can also be arranged through the concierge.
Dining: There are some dozen restaurants and lounges on the Broadmoor property. These range from the Golden Bee, a traditional English pub that serves yards of ale and steak and kidney pie, to the the Summit, an award-winning bistro designed by Adam D. Tihany that specializes in Latin, Southern, and Northern America cuisines.
Accommodations
The Broadmoor has some 700 guest rooms generally arranged on either side of Lake Cheyenne and these are supplemented now by 44 cottages, near the courts and along the golf course, and brownstones in a mini neighborhood near the courts. In the past I’ve always preferred the rooms in the original hotel. Those rooms and the main lobby and entrance have been thoroughly refurbished to the extent of combining small rooms to create luxurious suites. They have the a modern Edwardian elegance, if that’s not an oxymoron, only antique reproduction furnishings, original art, and hand craftsmanship can provide. I can’t stay there without wondering who among the hotel’s long roster of famous guests may have slept in that bed or wandered those halls. Though whoever they were would not have had a touch-screen at bedside to control the drapes, TV, and lighting, as my South Tower room did on my last visit.
On the opposite side of the lake stands the seven-story West Tower, which opened in 1997. Although that wing has none of the historic echoes, its rooms nonetheless stand out for their exquisite traditional decor and spaciousness. All of them have French doors that open out onto terraces with views of the mountains, lake, or golf course. The other lodging options are the cottages, ranging in size up to eight bedrooms and lining the fairway of the East golf course. And though you might not expect it, the hotel is pet friendly, even to the point of providing numerous pet services.
Getting there
Seasons: Although the Broadmoor is open all year, the best time to visit is during the May-to-September high season when activity on the courts reaches its zenith.
Travel Instructions: By Air: The Broadmoor is 11 miles from the Colorado Springs Airport (COS).
Tennis camp at the Broadmoor was a dream! The instruction was amazing, the accommodations were unreal and the staff was perfect!
MH
What an incredible pickleball and spa getaway you planned for us! Everyone had such an amazing time. We will be back for sure!
LP
This was my third year attending the adult tennis camp, and each time has been a fantastic experience filled with new learnings. The tennis pros, Christopher and Milo, each bring their own unique style, and together they create a well-rounded and dynamic program. Karen is an absolute gem—kind, supportive, and a true pleasure to work with. The entire team is welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely invested in making sure everyone improves, has fun, and falls even more in love with the sport. It’s truly our favorite weekend of the year!
EF
The staff and facility are FANTASTIC!!
GK
I have visited the Broadmoor and participated in many racquet sporting events for the past 30 years! Starting with tennis camps, etc, and now pickleball! Last month I attended their annual Picklebee tournament for the 3rd year in a row! Karen and her awesome staff do an amazing job with everything racquet related! They all go above and beyond to make your stay and experience the best! The court facilities for both tennis and pickleball are great, and it goes without saying that the Broadmoor resort itself is incredible!
TP
As a new member to The Broadmoor Golf club, I have to say, the entire staff of the Racquet club are outstanding. Karen, David, Kristin and Christopher are all amazing professionals who enjoy their job and love helping people learn a new sport( for me it’s pickleball).I can’t say enough about this group of people dedicated to making each day rewarding and enjoyable.
DR
I have attended multiple adult tennis camps at The Broadmoor and Karen and all the Tennis Pros are absolutely amazing. We always have a great time both on and off the court with drills, instruction, meals, and other activities. I highly recommend enjoying a long weekend of tennis at The Broadmoor!
MP
We come every year. This tennis camp is amazing. The instructors and content are so beneficial.
JH
Had a great time again this year at the Picklebee tournament in March! So much fun… love the Broadmoor and Karen and her team did a great job!
MB
I recently participated in the Pickle Bee Event at the Broadmoor. It was a well-planned, engaging event celebrating women playing pickleball! The facility and staff were amazing! Our accommodations and resort experience were lovely!
SA
Have played tennis and pickleball at The Broadmoor for years. The best staff, great pro shop, lessons, and a lot of fun play with lots of nice people. Not to mention The Broadmoor is a beautiful resort with great golf courses too! One of my favorite places!
KS
The Broadmoor Tennis camp is the best! Every year I look forward to this weekend of fun, learning, competition, great food, delightful people, and great tennis. The immediate feedback on the court makes it feel like a custom experience every time! It’s the perfect balance of skill building, strategy, and play…and in one of the best settings in the world!
LM
This is THE BEST tennis/pickleball program I’ve ever had the pleasure of being a member.
Karen, Christopher, David and Kristen work tirelessly to provide an outstanding experience to one and all no matter …member or guest.
They are personable, fun, friendly, professional and knowledgeable people who are always looking to make the best program possible …!
It is a 10 out of 10 year in and year out!
FR
The adult tennis camp that we attended was fantastic! The setting, the friendliness of the staff, the drills and the super talented pros made for a perfect weekend of tennis!
AE
I love playing tennis and pickleball at The Broadmoor. The staff are amazing, always helpful and supportive. Its the most beautiful location I’ve played tennis in and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to play tennis and pickleball while soaking up all beauty of this part of Colorado.
KM
As a Broadmoor Golf Club member I can not comment on accommodations, but have experienced tennis and pickleball lessons for myself and family members and I can’t say enough wonderful things about the staff. They are focused, friendly, professional and attentive to the needs of players . They make every effort to create community within members and guests both on and off the court. We are blessed to have them at the Broadmoor. I have also never done the adult tennis camps so can not comment on that.
PP
What a fun group of PROS!!! Knowledgeable, approachable, and expert staff that is always willing to help you learn. This club is top-notch, and the shop staff will ensure you are having fun while participating in the wonderful world of racquet sports!
CG
My 13 years at the Broadmoor Racquet Club has made me realize how lucky I am to be a member of this club. Having spent many years in Toronto, Canada, Lima, Peru and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil has made me realize that the Broadmoor is the model of a first class operation.
In my opinion, this club is second to none. I would be remiss if I did not mention that the entire racquet operation is so perfectly and professionally run by the Director of Racquet Sports, Karen Schott.
KD
The Broadmoor tennis and pickleball staff are top notch! They are dedicated from the lessons/drills/camps they run to how they help you in the shop. They make my experience at the Broadmoor amazing with their expertise, friendliness and commitment to making my experience the best! Thank you Broadmoor tennis and pickleball staff!
LC
This is one of the best weekends of the year! The entire team at Broadmoor is wonderful. Karen is extremely organized and excellent with communication. She makes sure everything is set before you arrive and always checks in through the entire weekend. The instructors are top notch. They know exactly what we need to work on and help us improve very quickly, all while having fun and laughing along the way. We had Christopher and Milo this past camp and they were fantastic! We will be back every year!
KD
Our group of 14 women had an amazing time at the PickleBee. The resort is amazing, fabulous food, and the indoor Pickleball so fun!
LH
I have been going to the Broadmoor Resort for several years. It is a very special place, but being a tennis enthusiast, it is Karen Schott and her extraordinary team, that brings me back every year. Whether it’s for a special event featuring world renown Mats Wilander, or just looking for a tennis getaway, Tennis at the Broadmoor, with it’s world class staff and imaginative programs, all headed by Karen Schott, is my go to place for great tennis, improving my game and being surrounded by supportive and friendly staff.
SR
The property is spectacular, and the tennis and pickleball facilities and instruction are 5-star. They have a very nice pro-shop as well.
SU
The Broadmoor’s tennis camps are THE BEST EVER!!!
We LOVE Christopher and David…so very much ~ ~ ~
DB
The camp was vigorous and informative! Loved every minute of it. The instructors are awesome – David and Christopher read our needs perfectly. My only disappointment was after paying for the camp I was still charged a resort fee! Come on!
JK
We had the best time at the Broadmoor for our tennis camp weekend. Everything about it was wonderful from the organization of the weekend, to the quality of instruction, and the property itself. My tennis friends and I always look forward to this experience.
CJ
We had the best time at the Broadmoor’s spring adults tennis camp. Three days of drills, supervised match-play and a whole lot of fun at a beautiful resort. Highly recommend!
DT
I attended the May 27-30, 2022 Memorial Day Tennis Camp at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO. I want to sincerely thank Karen Schott, Director of Racquet Sports for an exceptional weekend tennis camp. It was so welcoming, friendly, humorous, and amazingly well organized and directed. We had 6 pros/coaches, including the amazing Lisa Raymond, winner of 11 grand slam doubles and mixed doubles titles. She was ranked number one in the world in doubles on 5 separate occasions. She currently holds the record of most doubles match wins and most doubles wins played in WTA history. I got to play with her! And, Allie Kiick, professional, who she is now coaching. Allie is so fun and talented as well. Plus, we had David, Larry, Max, and Christopher that gave us personal and skilled attention with lots of laughs. Along with staying at the 5 star resort, The Broadmoor, you can’t beat this tennis camp!! Thank you ALL!
MS
Excellent weekend of tennis, great coaches all with their style but tying in with being a better player.. Great combination of drills and playing. One of the most beautiful settings for a resort.
DT
This was our second time visiting the Broadmoor for tennis. We did a three day camp and loved it. The instruction from the pro’s was top notch. We were separated into groups of 3-4 and rotated through different pro’s, so you had multiple eyes on your game. My only complaint is participants were supposed to be at least USTA rated 3.5 or higher. It was obvious this was not strictly enforced.
We want to see your racquet sports vacations! When you’re documenting your trip, tag @TennisResortsOnline on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn and use #TROAdventures for a chance to be featured on our page.
130 Reviews on “The Broadmoor”
Tennis camp at the Broadmoor was a dream! The instruction was amazing, the accommodations were unreal and the staff was perfect!
What an incredible pickleball and spa getaway you planned for us! Everyone had such an amazing time. We will be back for sure!
This was my third year attending the adult tennis camp, and each time has been a fantastic experience filled with new learnings. The tennis pros, Christopher and Milo, each bring their own unique style, and together they create a well-rounded and dynamic program. Karen is an absolute gem—kind, supportive, and a true pleasure to work with. The entire team is welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely invested in making sure everyone improves, has fun, and falls even more in love with the sport. It’s truly our favorite weekend of the year!
The staff and facility are FANTASTIC!!
I have visited the Broadmoor and participated in many racquet sporting events for the past 30 years! Starting with tennis camps, etc, and now pickleball! Last month I attended their annual Picklebee tournament for the 3rd year in a row! Karen and her awesome staff do an amazing job with everything racquet related! They all go above and beyond to make your stay and experience the best! The court facilities for both tennis and pickleball are great, and it goes without saying that the Broadmoor resort itself is incredible!
As a new member to The Broadmoor Golf club, I have to say, the entire staff of the Racquet club are outstanding. Karen, David, Kristin and Christopher are all amazing professionals who enjoy their job and love helping people learn a new sport( for me it’s pickleball).I can’t say enough about this group of people dedicated to making each day rewarding and enjoyable.
I have attended multiple adult tennis camps at The Broadmoor and Karen and all the Tennis Pros are absolutely amazing. We always have a great time both on and off the court with drills, instruction, meals, and other activities. I highly recommend enjoying a long weekend of tennis at The Broadmoor!
We come every year. This tennis camp is amazing. The instructors and content are so beneficial.
Had a great time again this year at the Picklebee tournament in March! So much fun… love the Broadmoor and Karen and her team did a great job!
I recently participated in the Pickle Bee Event at the Broadmoor. It was a well-planned, engaging event celebrating women playing pickleball! The facility and staff were amazing! Our accommodations and resort experience were lovely!
Have played tennis and pickleball at The Broadmoor for years. The best staff, great pro shop, lessons, and a lot of fun play with lots of nice people. Not to mention The Broadmoor is a beautiful resort with great golf courses too! One of my favorite places!
The Broadmoor Tennis camp is the best! Every year I look forward to this weekend of fun, learning, competition, great food, delightful people, and great tennis. The immediate feedback on the court makes it feel like a custom experience every time! It’s the perfect balance of skill building, strategy, and play…and in one of the best settings in the world!
This is THE BEST tennis/pickleball program I’ve ever had the pleasure of being a member.
Karen, Christopher, David and Kristen work tirelessly to provide an outstanding experience to one and all no matter …member or guest.
They are personable, fun, friendly, professional and knowledgeable people who are always looking to make the best program possible …!
It is a 10 out of 10 year in and year out!
The adult tennis camp that we attended was fantastic! The setting, the friendliness of the staff, the drills and the super talented pros made for a perfect weekend of tennis!
I love playing tennis and pickleball at The Broadmoor. The staff are amazing, always helpful and supportive. Its the most beautiful location I’ve played tennis in and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to play tennis and pickleball while soaking up all beauty of this part of Colorado.
As a Broadmoor Golf Club member I can not comment on accommodations, but have experienced tennis and pickleball lessons for myself and family members and I can’t say enough wonderful things about the staff. They are focused, friendly, professional and attentive to the needs of players . They make every effort to create community within members and guests both on and off the court. We are blessed to have them at the Broadmoor. I have also never done the adult tennis camps so can not comment on that.
What a fun group of PROS!!! Knowledgeable, approachable, and expert staff that is always willing to help you learn. This club is top-notch, and the shop staff will ensure you are having fun while participating in the wonderful world of racquet sports!
My 13 years at the Broadmoor Racquet Club has made me realize how lucky I am to be a member of this club. Having spent many years in Toronto, Canada, Lima, Peru and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil has made me realize that the Broadmoor is the model of a first class operation.
In my opinion, this club is second to none. I would be remiss if I did not mention that the entire racquet operation is so perfectly and professionally run by the Director of Racquet Sports, Karen Schott.
The Broadmoor tennis and pickleball staff are top notch! They are dedicated from the lessons/drills/camps they run to how they help you in the shop. They make my experience at the Broadmoor amazing with their expertise, friendliness and commitment to making my experience the best! Thank you Broadmoor tennis and pickleball staff!
This is one of the best weekends of the year! The entire team at Broadmoor is wonderful. Karen is extremely organized and excellent with communication. She makes sure everything is set before you arrive and always checks in through the entire weekend. The instructors are top notch. They know exactly what we need to work on and help us improve very quickly, all while having fun and laughing along the way. We had Christopher and Milo this past camp and they were fantastic! We will be back every year!
Our group of 14 women had an amazing time at the PickleBee. The resort is amazing, fabulous food, and the indoor Pickleball so fun!
I have been going to the Broadmoor Resort for several years. It is a very special place, but being a tennis enthusiast, it is Karen Schott and her extraordinary team, that brings me back every year. Whether it’s for a special event featuring world renown Mats Wilander, or just looking for a tennis getaway, Tennis at the Broadmoor, with it’s world class staff and imaginative programs, all headed by Karen Schott, is my go to place for great tennis, improving my game and being surrounded by supportive and friendly staff.
The property is spectacular, and the tennis and pickleball facilities and instruction are 5-star. They have a very nice pro-shop as well.
The Broadmoor’s tennis camps are THE BEST EVER!!!
We LOVE Christopher and David…so very much ~ ~ ~
The camp was vigorous and informative! Loved every minute of it. The instructors are awesome – David and Christopher read our needs perfectly. My only disappointment was after paying for the camp I was still charged a resort fee! Come on!
We had the best time at the Broadmoor for our tennis camp weekend. Everything about it was wonderful from the organization of the weekend, to the quality of instruction, and the property itself. My tennis friends and I always look forward to this experience.
We had the best time at the Broadmoor’s spring adults tennis camp. Three days of drills, supervised match-play and a whole lot of fun at a beautiful resort. Highly recommend!
I attended the May 27-30, 2022 Memorial Day Tennis Camp at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO. I want to sincerely thank Karen Schott, Director of Racquet Sports for an exceptional weekend tennis camp. It was so welcoming, friendly, humorous, and amazingly well organized and directed. We had 6 pros/coaches, including the amazing Lisa Raymond, winner of 11 grand slam doubles and mixed doubles titles. She was ranked number one in the world in doubles on 5 separate occasions. She currently holds the record of most doubles match wins and most doubles wins played in WTA history. I got to play with her! And, Allie Kiick, professional, who she is now coaching. Allie is so fun and talented as well. Plus, we had David, Larry, Max, and Christopher that gave us personal and skilled attention with lots of laughs. Along with staying at the 5 star resort, The Broadmoor, you can’t beat this tennis camp!! Thank you ALL!
Excellent weekend of tennis, great coaches all with their style but tying in with being a better player.. Great combination of drills and playing. One of the most beautiful settings for a resort.
This was our second time visiting the Broadmoor for tennis. We did a three day camp and loved it. The instruction from the pro’s was top notch. We were separated into groups of 3-4 and rotated through different pro’s, so you had multiple eyes on your game. My only complaint is participants were supposed to be at least USTA rated 3.5 or higher. It was obvious this was not strictly enforced.