Myers Avenue
Cripple Creek, US
Explore the incredible history of Myers Avenue in Cripple Creek, the most famous red-light district of the Old West, and its evolution into a premier heritage site.
Myers Avenue was the legendary red-light district of Cripple Creek, Colorado, and stands as one of the most famous and well-documented vice enclaves of the American Old West. During the peak of the gold rush in the late 1890s, Myers Avenue was a vibrant, high-energy thoroughfare that ran parallel to the town's main street, serving as the primary social and entertainment hub for thousands of miners, prospectors, and entrepreneurs. The district was renowned for its unique blend of gritty frontier reality and surprising opulence, featuring everything from primitive wooden cribs to the most luxurious parlor houses in the western United States.
The district reached its height of notoriety and prosperity following the Great Fires of 1896, which destroyed much of the original wooden town. The subsequent rebuilding efforts saw the construction of more permanent brick structures, including the iconic Old Homestead House, which became the pinnacle of elegance in the district. Myers Avenue was a place of extreme contrasts, where the immense wealth generated from the surrounding gold mines was spent freely on gambling, liquor, and professional companionship. It was a primary node in the town's social fabric, reflecting the transient and ambitious nature of a frontier boomtown where the boundaries of respectability were often fluid.
Today, Myers Avenue is a central part of the Cripple Creek National Historic Landmark District. While many of the original buildings were lost to time or later redevelopment, several key structures remain, most notably the Old Homestead House, which now serves as a museum dedicated to the area's vice history. The modern street is a quiet but atmospheric reminder of the town's roaring past, located just steps away from the contemporary casinos and historic landmarks that draw visitors from around the world. The legacy of Myers Avenue is preserved through local history programs and tours, offering a fascinating and nuanced glimpse into the social complexities of the Colorado gold rush era.
Safety Level
The area once known as Myers Avenue is now a safe and well-maintained part of the Cripple Creek historic district. The presence of professional security in the town's many casinos, along with the active presence of the Cripple Creek Police Department, ensures a high level of public safety. During the day and evening, the town is filled with tourists and professionals, creating a high-visibility and secure environment for all visitors.
Standard urban safety precautions are recommended, particularly when walking late at night. While violent crime in this historic community is rare, it is advisable to stay on the well-lit main thoroughfares and utilize reputable transit options for late-night travel. Visitors should also be mindful of the physical challenges associated with the high altitude, ensuring they stay hydrated and aware of their physical limits while exploring the town's steeper streets and historic landmarks.
The town's emergency services are well-equipped and generally provide fast response times due to the compact nature of the historic core. Overall, the former site of the city's notorious vice row is now a secure and welcoming destination for history enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. The transition from a gritty mining camp to a polished heritage destination has resulted in a significant investment in the town's public safety infrastructure.
Quick Info
Location
Cripple Creek, Colorado
Transport
Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad (Seasonal)
Peak Hours
11:00 - 20:00
Services
Recommended Services
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