Tattoos are famously permanent, so when you're looking to get new ink, it's important to find somewhere and someone you trust.
If you've thought about getting a tattoo for a while, you're probably looking for a specific style. It is a good idea to find an artist who specializes in that area whether it's neo-traditional, color, line work, realism or something else.
Thankfully, Colorado Springs is full of talented tattoo artists who have mastered their craft in a wide range of styles.
In honor of National Tattoo Day, July 17, the Gazette has compiled a list of the best tattoo shops and parlors around Colorado Springs, according to readers who voted for the Best of the Springs.
7. Work of Heart Tattoo
Located at: 5879 Palmer Park Blvd.
This tattoo shop is women-owned and has multiple artists who cover a range of different styles from traditional to color to anime and beyond.
"We work from the heart and it shows in our quality of work," their introduction reads. "Come in as a guest and leave as FAMILY!"
You can see some of their work on the shop'sFacebookpage and learn more about the individual artists here.
Food
7 best 'hidden gem' restaurants in Colorado Springs
- Julia Carpenterjulia.carpenter@gazette.com
6. King Louie's Tattoo Parlor
Located at: 3315 W. Carefree Circle
This tattoo shop is owned by Louis and Anna Colon, an artist couple each with their own specialty, according to their website. Louis is an expert of covering up old tattoos to make something fresh and he also does photorealistic art.
Anna has a more feminine style and has mastered floral bouquet designs and stipple shading, according to their website.
You can find their portfolio and book an appointment here.
5. Ink Inertia Custom Tattoo and Art Gallery
Located at: 2921 N. Murray Blvd.
Tattoo artists Phil and Joel first opened Ink Inertia Custom Tattoo in 2011. Today, a group of eight independent artists fuel this shop with unique skill and style.
"If I could rate these guys higher, I would in a heartbeat. If you want quality work, a comfortable and judgment free place to go this is more than the right place for you,” a review on their website by AlicéaSanchez says.
You can book an appointment or learn more about their individual artists on the shop's website.
Food
9 places to get a cold treat on a hot day in Colorado Springs
- Grace Wride, Ajia Cuevas, Lisa Walton
3. West Side Tattoo (tied for third best shop)
Located at: 2031 W. Colorado Ave.
Brothers Aaron and Brian Moore opened West Side Tattoo in 2005. They now have 21 different artists, allowing them to offer expertise in nearly every tattoo style imaginable.
"Step into our creative sanctuary, and let our skilled hands bring your imagination to life, leaving you with a permanent work of art that tells your story for a lifetime," the introduction on their website reads.
You can learn more about this shop and book an appointment on their website.
3. R U Tattooed (tied for third best shop)
Located at: 5352 Montebello Lane
R U Tattooed is a Christian-owned tattoo shop run by four different artists, two of whom specialize in realism and neo-traditional.
Their website homepage opens with a scripture and then provides information of each of their artists.
All of their artists book differently, so it's recommended to reach out to them individually. You can find the list of artists here.
2. Fallen Heroes Tattoo & Piercing
Located at: 524 W. Colorado Ave.
This large tattoo shop has another location in Florida. Their name is in honor of local heroes who they don't believe get enough fanfare such as teachers, firefighters, first responders, veterans, police officers and active duty military.
"These are our fallen heroes. These cornerstone occupations have molded the communities that we live in. Those few that will step up where others might yield. ... You will always be VIP at Fallen Heroes Tattoo & Piercing"
Their Colorado location has over 20 artists, you can book an appointment on their website.
1. Timeless Body Art
Located at: 23 E. Kiowa St.
The most voted for tattoo shop is located in downtown Colorado Springs. Sean Drake opened the shop in 2009 after finishing his apprenticeship. He specializes in black and gray and color realism.
"We provide a clean, safe, comfortable environment for all; from portraits, American traditional, custom pieces, to group walk-ins, we do it all!"
You can learn more about Timeless Body Art or book an appointment on their website.