Experience Mid-Century Modern Elegance at America’s Unique Hotel Featuring Flight Simulators Out West

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Experience Mid-Century Modern Elegance at America's Unique Hotel Featuring Flight Simulators Out West

Colorado Springs, known as America’s Olympic City, is home to all kinds of fantastic attractions, like Garden of the Gods, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Just outside the gates of the Air Force Academy is Hotel Polaris, the only hotel in North America where you can fly an F-16 or a 737 MAX (via simulator, of course). Along with the unique distinction of its in-house flight simulators, Hotel Polaris has multiple restaurants including a rooftop bar, a mountain-view outdoor pool, a spa, and impressive modern design. It’s one of those hotels where you’ll check in and never need (or want) to leave.



The nine-story hotel opened in 2024, and its mid-century design helps give it both a vintage and timeless vibe. It also pays homage to its location next to the Air Force Academy with an aviation and aerospace theme incorporated into the decor and artwork, like the check-in desk that looks like an airplane wing and the large “Red Calvera” sculpture by a local artist, which was inspired by a star.

Hotel Polaris is in northern Colorado Springs, about a 30-minute drive from the Colorado Springs Airport and an hour from the Denver International Airport, America’s largest airport. Next door to the hotel is the Hosmer Visitor Center; it’s scheduled to open near the end of 2025 and will give visitors an insight into life at the Air Force Academy with immersive exhibits. The Cadet Chapel is one of the academy’s most popular highlights. It’s a modern architectural marvel at 150 feet tall with 17 spires made of faceted glass and aluminum (though note that it’s being renovated and is closed until 2027).



Try out the flight simulators at Hotel Polaris

In the F17 flight simulator at Hotel Polaris in Colorado Springs

The flight simulators that help make Hotel Polaris such a special place to visit are open for both hotel guests and visitors. There are two F-16 Fighting Falcon simulators side by side, so you can fly alone to see how you’d fare in a battle scenario or compete with a friend. You’ll get a mixed-reality headset that lets you see the controls, with 360-degree views that make it seem like you’re flying through the air. On the 737 MAX simulator, you can choose to take off or land at any airport in the country, and from the wraparound screen, you’ll be able to take in the sights of your chosen city.

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For all the simulators, there’s someone working with you to help you understand the controls and to help maximize the fun and excitement of the experience. If you want to reserve your preferred time, you can book online in advance, or you can walk in to see what’s available. The sessions run in half-hour increments up to two hours, with prices starting at $70 (as of this writing). You do have to be 12 and over to use them.



Rooms, relaxation, and restaurant options at Hotel Polaris

Hotel room at Hotel Polaris in Colorado Springs

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.