City: Calhan, CO

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (719) 347-9200

Address: 24615 Scott Rd.

Description: It started out as a big-cat rescue site on the plains near Calhan, east of Colorado Springs. More than 100 cats—lions, tigers, panthers, cougars, lynxes, and others—have found refuge here. Tours last about an hour and are available by appointment only and must be arranged in advance. You’ll hear the story of each animal at the center—some sad, some strange, some almost unbelievable. Some of the animals are more socialized than others, so not every critter there is on view. But you’ll see dozens and dozens of them and empathize with their plights. The tour is on a flat path, but a golf cart is available for anyone who can’t walk for an hour. It’s quite a drive from the Springs (nearly an hour) but worth the trip for animal lovers.