Welcome to the U.S. Air Force Academy
Updated Base Access
As of June 25, 2025, the U.S. Air Force Academy directs all visitors to use the South Gate as part of updated security measures and procedures. All Department of Defense ID card holders are encouraged to use the North Gate to enter the Academy installation. Guests with an accompanying school-aged child (13+) may request access for the purposes of exploring potential future enrollment or recruitment, Visit the Visitor Center to learn more.
Visitors who have purchased tickets to a sporting event, have a scheduled Admissions tour/brief, wish to visit the Goldwater Visitor Center with an accompanying child (13+), or made a reservation for a Planetarium show can request installation access by emailing the sponsoring organization. The sponsoring organization will send you a QR code that you can use to pre-register for installation access. Once your request is received, Security Forces will conduct a background check, and you will receive a decision via text. If approved, proceed to either the North or the South Gate on the day of your approved visit date and present a Real ID for base access.
General visitors must be sponsored by an organization or individual with a DoD ID card. Employees and sponsored visitors should plan for increased security measures and longer wait times at the gates. While on the installation, all personnel are subject to search.
The Santa Fe Trail is closed to all personnel for the portion that crosses the Academy installation. The 10th Medical Group, Exchange and Commissary remain open to all beneficiaries.
We’re short on air, but not on views. Located just north of Colorado Springs, at the base of the Front Range, our campus sits on 18,500 acres of breathtaking mountain panoramas. The youngest of five military service academies, we boast stunning mid-century modern architecture, state-of-the-art Division I athletic facilities, and unparalleled academic research centers. Here 4,000 exceptional young men and women from across the United States become future leaders in service to our nation.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat guest, we hope to make your visit memorable and inspiring. Our visitor resources include important details for getting on base, business hours, and places of interest. Explore the campus using our convenient self-guided tour or visit us through our incredible virtual experience from the comfort of home. Take advantage of the Colorado outdoors using our handy trail guide or by taking part in ample fishing and hunting activities. Bringing the whole family? Our scavenger hunt, Instagram-worthy photo spots, and frequent furry visitors will keep the kiddos on their toes.
Let’s get you on your way…
Visitor Resources
Visitor Center
2346 Academy Drive
U.S. Air Force Academy CO 80840
Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm
(719) 333–2025
visit@afacademy.af.edu
Explore the Campus
Outdoor Activities
Children's Activities
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the weather like at the Academy?
Weather in the entire Pikes Peak region is often unpredictable, with temperatures and conditions varying quite drastically between the surrounding Colorado Springs area and the U.S. Air Force Academy campus. Wind gusts on the Academy’s terrazzo area are not to be reckoned with!We recommend checking the weather before your visit and staying prepared for both warm and colder weather by bringing water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and jackets.
View the for seven-day weather forecast.
- What is the altitude at the Academy?
Our cadets are particularly fond of their Academy ‘altimeter check’: “Sir/ma/am, my altitude is 7,250’ above sea level, far, far above that of West Point or Annapolis.” In fact, our terrain can go as high as 9,000 feet in elevation at the Farish Recreation Area. Basic cadets spend several weeks acclimating to this altitude during the first part of Basic Cadet Training.
- What are the signs of altitude sickness?
Colorado visitors and newcomers may experience symptoms related to altitude sickness until their bodies adjust to lower oxygen pressure. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, tiredness, insomnia, and loss of appetite. You can combat altitude sickness by following four simple steps:
- Stay Hydrated: Fluid loss often accompanies the acclimatization process, so drinking three to four quarts of water per day will help you stay hydrated.
- Don’t overexert yourself: Colorado is, quite literally, breathtaking. We recommend not jumping into strenuous activity right away. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol can depress respiration during sleep, and tobacco products can decrease lung capacity. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco may reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Eat a high-carb diet: Starches, bread, fruits, and pasta are a great energy source for high altitudes and cold environments, helping offset altitude sickness symptoms.
- Are there accommodations for guests with limited mobility?
The U.S. Air Force Academy is highly committed to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 ensuring a visit to the Academy is a safe and welcoming experience for all guests. Please note that the Academy does not issue handicapped parking passes. Individuals should bring their own state-issued handicapped parking pass with them to access handicapped parking in the Cadet Area, Visitor Center, Planetarium, and Falcon Stadium.The Academy does not provide wheelchairs or other medical equipment, with exception of wheelchairs which are available for use within the Visitor Center.
- Does the Academy provide certificates for Boy Scout and Girl Scout achievements?
Yes we do. We have fillable certificates for both Eagle Scout and Gold Award recipients available that can be filled out and printed for your scout to display.
- Where are public restrooms located?
Public restrooms are available at the Visitor Center, Arnold Hall, Planetarium, Doolittle Hall, and the Cadet Field House.