Inside Dragonman’s Military Museum: A Hidden Gem in Colorado
Tucked away in the scrublands east of Colorado Springs sits one of the most jaw-dropping, private collections of military history you’ve likely never heard of—unless you’re into machine guns, tanks, and WWII memorabilia.
It isn't a far drive from Colorado Springs. Maybe 15-20 minutes from town.
In hindsight, I was utterly lucky and blessed to obtain a tour of The Dragonman’s Military Museum, owned and operated by eccentric Vietnam veteran Mel “Dragonman” Bernstein, when I was there last fall for the Rocky Mountain Range Day event at which my company was participating.
It is less of a traditional museum and more of an all-out sensory assault on anyone who appreciates American history, firearms, and a healthy dose of unapologetic patriotism.
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A One-of-a-Kind Collection
To call Dragonman’s museum impressive is a massive understatement. Housing over 100,000 military artifacts, it spans multiple buildings and themed rooms, each dedicated to a different war or era—from the Revolutionary War to present-day conflicts. Visitors walk through meticulously recreated battle scenes and encampments that include sandbags, original uniforms, period-correct weapons, and personal soldier artifacts. Each display is crammed to the brim, giving you the sense that you've stepped straight onto a battlefield—or a movie set.
*I took a LOT of pictures and a selection of those are included in a gallery at the bottom of this webpage.
If memory serves, this is a complete collection of German Military helmets or something of that nature inside of the “Nazi Room”
But the real crowd-pleasers? Dragonman’s fully functional fleet of military vehicles, including tanks, half-tracks, and jeeps. Yes, real tanks. And the owner, who gave me my tour, has fired his tanks on many occasions, including once for the Discovery Channel.
The Man Behind the Museum
Mel Bernstein, known far and wide as the “Most Armed Man in America,” is just as much a part of the attraction as the museum itself. A former motorcycle shop owner and certified character, Mel is a walking, talking piece of American grit. On weekends, he personally leads the tours, dropping knowledge with the enthusiasm of a teenager showing off his first AR. His passion is infectious, and his firsthand military experience adds authenticity to every story he tells.
What I didn't get is a polished, politically correct museum experience. What I did get is a raw, unfiltered history lesson delivered by someone who truly lives and breathes this stuff.
More Than Just Firearms
While Dragonman is known for his massive arsenal of automatic weapons, the museum also includes sobering exhibits on the Holocaust, Vietnam War POWs, and even 9/11. One room contains piles of authentic Nazi propaganda, concentration camp uniforms, and disturbing relics that offer a gut-punch reminder of the horrors of war. It’s emotional, educational, and unforgettable.
I particularly remember this sight which includes the only collection of every gas mask every produced by the US Military:
This picture doesn't include all of the masks in the collection. The infant/baby masks are particularly disturbing
Visitor Experience
Tours are reservation-only and usually offered on Sundays from May through November. It’s a guided-only experience, and that’s a good thing—you’d miss half the stories without Mel walking you through it.
There’s no fancy snack bar or digital touchscreen kiosks here. It’s boots-on-the-ground history. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and don’t expect a sanitized museum brochure. Dragonman keeps it real—and that’s exactly why people love it. I was encouraged to take pictures and to share them online.
Final Verdict
Five stars for sheer spectacle.
Dragonman’s Military Museum is a national treasure hidden in plain sight. It’s gritty, overwhelming, deeply educational, and absolutely unforgettable. More than a museum, it’s a time machine—powered by horsepower, gunpowder, and raw passion. If you are like me, you'll walk out and immediately start thinking of the people in your life that you really need to bring back with you for your second tour.