Five principal areas attract shoppers in Colorado Springs. The Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City neighborhoods are excellent places to browse for art, jewelry, arts and crafts, books, antiques, and other specialty items. The Chapel Hills and Citadel malls combine major department stores with a variety of national chain outlets. Downtown Colorado Springs also has numerous fine shops.
Books -- There are numerous chain bookstores around the city, including Barnes & Noble, 795 Citadel Dr. E. (tel. 719/637-8282).
Sporting Goods -- In business since 1968, the independent Mountain Chalet, 226 N. Tejon St. (tel. 719/633-0732; www.mtnchalet.com), sells camping gear, outdoor clothing, hiking and climbing gear, and winter sports equipment. Another good source for all sorts of outdoor clothing and equipment is Sports Authority, with stores at 7730 N. Academy Blvd. (tel. 719/532-1020) and 1409 N. Academy Blvd. (tel. 719/574-1400).