The American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) premier educational event, Summer Seminar, is a great vacation for the whole family. While the studious collector is in the classroom, friends and family can embark on non-numismatic adventures and day trips.
“Spousetivities” are daily excursions arranged by the ANA for guests and family to enjoy while Summer Seminar students attend classes and workshops. All of the activities are a la carte, so participants can select one, some or all.
“Intersession”–the two days between Session 1 and Session 2–is a wonderful opportunity to explore some of the Pikes Peak region’s popular attractions, take in a tour of the Denver Mint, or attend the local coin show.
Each excursion is priced to include transportation costs and admission fees. Early registration is recommended as space is limited. For a full list of tours and daytrips, please refer to the Summer Seminar catalog, or visit www.money.org/summer-seminar.
A sampling of Spousetivities include:
Denver Botanic Gardens
- Price: $30
- Date: Monday, June 20 (8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)
Denver Botanic Gardens is recognized as one of the top botanic gardens in the western United States and is home to more than 34,000 plants. The incredible plant diversity represented, ranging from arid to tropical, is showcased in roughly 45 different individual gardens in 24 acres in the middle of the city. Plant collections from over 90 countries around the world are showcased with an emphasis on high altitude climates similar to Colorado’s.
Bake Chocolate Desserts at the French Kitchen
- Price: $60
- Date: Monday, June 27 (9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.)
A chocoholic’s dream: Learn how to bake chocolate ganache cake, chocolate mousse, chocolate crème, Florentines and more. Under the tutelage of Blandine Brutel, the French Lady, attendees will learn simple techniques that will ensure their dessert success time and time again. Sample a bit of everything during the class and leave with great recipes and a delicious assortment of confections to share … or not!
Intersession options include:
U.S. Olympic Training Center
- Price: $25
- Date: Friday, June 24 (2:30-4:30 p.m.)
The U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is home to athletes and coaches for the Rio Olympic Games. The tour starts with an inspirational 12-minute film and then a 45-minute outdoor walking tour of the training complex, including the weightlifting and wrestling facilities, the Aquatics Center and the Sport Center Gymnasiums. Visitors can then explore the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame Rotunda, shop at the U.S. Olympic Store and check out the ever-changing art exhibitions found throughout the Olympic Visitor Center. The bus leaves at 2:30 PM and returns to Colorado College by 4:30 PM.
Denver Mint Tours
- Price: $35
- Date: Thursday, June 23 (First tour 7:30 a.m.); (Second tour 10:30 a.m.)
During the 45-minute guided tour, visitors will get a bird’s-eye view of the production floor that includes several coining presses that strike over 750 coins a minute. The Mint’s experienced tour guides will share many interesting facts about the Mint and are always available to answer any questions. The guides will educate visitors on the history of the Mint, the coin making process and walk them through the many exhibits and artifacts on display. Boxed lunches will be provided. The first tour leaves at 7:30 AM, and returns by 12:30 PM. The second tour leaves at 10:30 AM, and returns by 3:30 PM.
Coin Show
Summer Seminar students have the opportunity to attend the Colorado Springs Coin Show, which will take place June 23-26. A complimentary shuttle service between the Coin Show and Colorado College will be offered to students Thursday-Saturday. Admission is free. For more information call (719) 632-4260, or visit http://cscc.anaclubs.org.
YN Scholarship Benefit Auction
- Session 1: Tuesday, June 21
- Session 2: Tuesday, June 28
Summer Seminar attendees and guests are encouraged to show support for numismatic youth by participating in one of the annual YN (Young Numismatist) auctions. It’s an opportunity to socialize with fellow numismatists, bid on interesting items, and contribute to education. Young Numismatists, who organize the entire event, rely on the generosity of members to donate items; all proceeds directly benefit the YN Summer Seminar Scholarship Fund, which helps dozens of YNs attend Summer Seminar every year.
Book Sale
- Session 1: June 18
- Session 2: June 25
Summer Seminar is the venue for the annual Dwight N. Manley Numismatic Library Book Sale. Deaccessioned, surplus and specially donated materials will be made available to students and the general public for purchase during both sessions.
CCAC Public Meeting
- Date: Monday, June 27
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
The Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) public forum is an opportunity for the general public and those attending the ANA’s Summer Seminar to share their thoughts and ideas regarding American coin design. The CCAC was established in 2003 to advise the Secretary of the Treasury on the themes and designs of all US coins and medals. For additional information, visit www.ccac.gov.
Those interested in registering for a Spousetivity or Intersession activity may do so by visiting www.money.org/summer-seminar, calling (719) 482-9865, or emailing [email protected]. Completed registration forms can be mailed to:
Summer Seminar
c/o Amber Bradish
818 N. Cascade Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
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