A new option has joined Woodland Park’s busy Mexican food scene. Tacos El Amigo #4 has officially opened in the shopping center anchored by Safeway, taking over the space previously occupied by Serrano’s, which has since relocated to Florissant.
Tacos El Amigo is not new to the area. The restaurant already operates three other locations, two in Colorado Springs and one in Fountain, all of which have built strong followings and consistently high ratings. The Woodland Park location marks the brand’s first expansion into Teller County.
The restaurant describes itself as a casual spot focused on comfort food and quick bites, with a menu centered around tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites. One of the standout offerings is their birria tacos, which have become a highlight at their other locations and are already drawing attention from local diners.
With several established Mexican restaurants already serving the Woodland Park community, competition is strong, but Tacos El Amigo enters the scene with a proven track record and an existing customer base familiar with the brand. Its location near Safeway places it in a high-traffic area, making it an easy stop for both locals and visitors.
As the restaurant settles in, it adds another option for residents looking for casual, fast Mexican fare and continues the trend of new dining spots filling long-standing restaurant spaces in Woodland Park.
The historic Thunderbird Inn, a beloved Florissant landmark off Highway 24 near Teller County Road 1, is beginning the long process of cleanup and rebuilding after a late-night fire broke out on Wednesday, October 1.
Fire crews from multiple agencies, including Florissant Fire Rescue, responded to the call around 11:30 p.m. Volunteer firefighters arrived quickly and began working to contain the blaze, which was concentrated in the front bar area near the fireplace, with flames extending into the wood floor, walls, and attic. Thanks to their swift response, the fire was fully extinguished, and no injuries were reported.
In a statement shared online, Florissant Fire Rescue detailed the challenging response due to the age and construction of the building, noting that crews had to force entry through multiple doors before initiating a full fire attack.
While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, the Thunderbird Inn has confirmed that it plans to rebuild. In a message to the community, the owners wrote, “Yes, the Thunderbird had a fire. It was completely extinguished. Damage unsure. Please message here or stop by with help or questions. We will keep you updated with information as it becomes available. Thank you for your help and patience as we evaluate and rebuild.”
As word spread, the community quickly came together to support the cleanup efforts. Volunteers joined in clearing debris, while local businesses stepped up to help. HolyMoly Doughnuts of Florissant provided pastries for the volunteers, and Joe Corrigan generously contributed food for those working at the site.
The Thunderbird Inn has long been a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and rustic mountain charm. While the damage is a setback, the spirit of the Florissant community, and their commitment to restoring this historic local treasure remains strong.
As the Thunderbird begins its road to recovery, one thing is clear: this isn’t goodbye. It’s a “see you soon.”
Every fall, the mountains of Teller County, just west of Colorado Springs, transform into a patchwork of golden aspens framed by rugged peaks and deep evergreen forests. From September 25 through October 7, the colors are expected to reach their peak, painting the hillsides in brilliant shades of yellow and gold. For those looking to soak in the sights, Teller County offers one of the most scenic drives close to Colorado Springs, with plenty of small-town charm, hearty food, and hidden gems along the way.
Starting in Colorado Springs, here’s a full-day itinerary that pairs breathtaking foliage with memorable stops, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned leaf peepers alike.
Woodland Park – A Mountain Town Welcome After winding your way up Ute Pass on Highway 24, your first stop is Woodland Park, known as “The City Above the Clouds.” The air is a little crisper here, and the mountain views begin to open up. Before continuing deeper into the forest, stop at Café Leo, a cozy local favorite. A warm latte or chai makes the perfect start, and their baked goods — especially the house-made pastry that tastes like an elevated version of a childhood “pop tart” — are worth the indulgence. It’s also a good spot to stretch your legs, stock up on road snacks, and settle into mountain time.
Divide & Mueller State Park – Aspen Gold at Its Best From Woodland Park, head west to Divide, where Highway 67 splits south toward Cripple Creek. This stretch of road is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Golden aspen groves blanket the rolling hillsides, and the higher elevation means the colors often come early and stay vibrant.
Just a few miles down the road lies Mueller State Park, one of Teller County’s crown jewels. With more than 5,000 acres and 55 miles of trails, the park offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the colors. Even if you don’t have time for a long hike, the park has scenic pull-offs where you can capture sweeping photos of gold against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. For a quick, rewarding stroll, try the Outlook Ridge Trail, which leads to panoramic views perfect for fall photos.
Mueller State Park
Cripple Creek – History and a Hearty Meal Continue south to Cripple Creek, a historic mining town where Victorian architecture meets the buzz of modern casinos. The drive itself is spectacular, with bursts of aspen lining the hillsides and occasional wildlife sightings.
Once you arrive, fuel up with lunch at The District Kitchen & Saloon, a modern spot with a hearty menu. Their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich” has earned a loyal following for good reason — it’s crispy, spicy, and perfectly satisfying after a mountain drive. After lunch, stroll the downtown streets where old brick buildings and historic markers tell the story of Colorado’s gold rush era. If you’re feeling adventurous, step into one of the casinos and test your luck before heading back out to the open road.
“Best In The West Hot Chicken” Sandwich, The District Saloon
Victor – A Step Back in Time Just a short drive from Cripple Creek lies Victor, a quieter, less touristy mining town that feels frozen in time. Along the way, you’ll pass Rita the Troll, a quirky roadside sculpture that’s become a local landmark — the perfect photo-op for your road trip scrapbook.
In town, pop into Gold Camp Bakery Café & Deli, where the scent of fresh bread and pastries fills the air. For those seeking something stronger, the 1899 Mining Claim and Saloon serves craft beers and cocktails in a setting that channels the rugged spirit of the mining era. If you’re lucky enough to find the Victor Trading Co & Manufacturing Works open, don’t miss it. This old-fashioned shop sells hand-pressed postcards, hand-made brooms, and unique keepsakes that make for truly memorable souvenirs.
Victor Trading Co & Manufacturing Works
The Perfect Ending in Green Mountain Falls (We Know, It’s Not In Teller County) As the day winds down, make your way back toward Colorado Springs. Before you descend fully into the Front Range, stop in Green Mountain Falls, a small mountain village that feels tucked away from the world. Here, Cantina Verde serves some of the best Mexican fare in the region. Their queso and house margaritas are the ideal way to toast a successful day of leaf peeping before heading back to the city.
Cripple Creek is full of history, but when it comes to food, The District Kitchen & Saloon is making its own mark. This local favorite at 367 East Bennett Avenue is where comfort food meets bold flavor, and their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich” might just be the crown jewel. Spicy, crispy, and stacked with fresh toppings on a toasted brioche bun, it’s the kind of sandwich that makes you forget about the slot machines.
Let’s talk about the standout: their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich.” It lives up to its name. We’re talking spicy, crispy chicken piled high with creamy coleslaw, tangy pickles, and mayo, all on a toasted brioche bun. It’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and flavor. Add in a side of crispy tater tots and you’ve got a plate that will have you coming back for seconds.
Before you even get to the main course, do yourself a favor and start with the Cheese Curds or the “Boomer” fried mushrooms. Both appetizers hit the mark and are ideal for sharing.
The atmosphere at The District Kitchen & Saloon is warm, friendly, and just the kind of place where you want to linger a little longer. Whether you’re visiting Cripple Creek, heading over to Victor, or stopping by to see Rita the Rock Planter, this restaurant deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for great food in a great setting, this is the place.
Family recipes, fresh ingredients, and some of the best pizza in Colorado
If you find yourself anywhere near Hartsel, Colorado, make time for a stop at Zuccaro’s Kitchen. Tucked into this quiet mountain town, the restaurant is quickly building a reputation for delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a surprising menu that rivals anything you’ll find in the city.
Zuccaro’s is family-owned and run, and the care shows in every detail. The menu is full of Italian-American favorites like hand-tossed pizza, pasta, hoagies, pies, and desserts. One reviewer described the pizza crust as the best they’ve had in Colorado. It’s thick but fluffy, perfect for dipping into their signature chili oil. Another guest raved about the garlic bread with cheese, Italian hoagie, and a pesto pizza recommended by their server that completely won them over.
The experience goes beyond the food. On certain evenings, the restaurant hosts live music, giving visitors one more reason to stick around and soak up the good energy. It’s the kind of place where locals gather and road trippers end up pleasantly surprised.
Zuccaro’s also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. All of their containers, dishes, and cutlery are compostable, aligning with their mission to serve great food while taking care of the environment.
Located in a quiet corner of Park County, Zuccaro’s Kitchen might seem off the beaten path. But the atmosphere, flavor, and friendly service make it more than worth the trip. Whether you’re just passing through or planning a special outing, this small-town spot delivers in a big way.
Family-owned shop now open in Evergreen Station, Florissant
There’s a new reason to get up early in Florissant. HolyMoly Doughnuts, a family-run breakfast spot, is now open at 8722 County Road 1 in Evergreen Station. They are serving up homemade doughnuts, breakfast bowls, and burritos with a warm welcome and a strong sense of community.
This is not your average doughnut shop. HolyMoly is built on faith, family values, and the belief that good food can bring people together. The menu features yeast-risen doughnuts, buttermilk bars, apple fritters, sugar cookies, and hearty breakfast burritos and bowls to help you start your day right.
“We’re here to start your day right, with a hearty breakfast and a healthy dose of community spirit,” says their website.
Open from 4:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every day except Wednesdays, HolyMoly is already becoming a local favorite. The food is homemade, the service is genuine, and the atmosphere is just what you want in a mountain-town breakfast stop.
Whether you are swinging through Florissant or live nearby, HolyMoly Doughnuts is worth the visit. It is a place that serves more than food. It serves a little joy with every bite.
Pizzabirria, papas locas, and more are on the way to Teller County.
Woodland Park is about to get a fresh dose of flavor. Sofia’s Antojitos, a popular Mexican street food spot with two highly rated locations in Colorado Springs, is expanding to Teller County with a brand-new restaurant set to open at 727 Gold Hill Place South, the former home of Mountainara Cucina.
While the official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but a liquor license has been issued, the remodel is progressing, and hiring is underway. Sofia’s is known for its bold, crave-worthy menu and its signature take on Mexican street fare. If you’ve never been, “Antojitos” translates roughly to little cravings, and the menu is full of exactly that.
Expect a variety of tortas, flautas, elotes, papas locas (a loaded fries dish that lives up to the “crazy” name), and fan favorites like birria tacos and the now-legendary pizzabirria, a cross between a quesadilla, and pizza (with birria, of course).
Both existing locations in Colorado Springs carry 4.6+ star ratings on Google, and locals swear by the food. This new Woodland Park location marks the restaurant’s first move above 8000 feet, and it’s already generating buzz from locals eager to try something new in town.
Sofia’s is currently hiring, though no wage info has been shared publicly yet. Whether you’re looking for a job or just a plate of papas locas, it’s a spot worth keeping an eye on.
We’ll share opening details as soon as they’re available.
thetellertimes.com 