Looking for a unique destination in Colorado? Visit Canon City in Southern Colorado.
Canon City is a city rich with history and breathtaking sights.
Located just outside the Rocky Mountains, the city sits in the scenic Arkansas River Valley and offers visitors a glimpse into the Wild West with its charming downtown and historic buildings.
Canon City has a fascinating past that is still present today in its architecture and landmarks.
Travelers can explore the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges or enjoy whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River.
In fact, Royal Gorge rafting trip on the picturesque Arkansas River is one of the best rafting experiences in America.
Add in the dinosaurs – yes, you read that right – and Canon City is the ultimate family destination.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Canon City, Colorado.
Cañon City, Colorado has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century.
Known for its scenic beauty, Cañon City area sits at an elevation of 5,332 feet and boasts numerous attractions for visitors.
It is the gateway city for Royal Gorge region and hence, very popular.
Here are the best things to do in Canon City, Colorado.
Explore Downtown Cañon City
Stepping into Downtown Cañon City feels like taking a stroll back in time.
The historic downtown area is a well-preserved testament to the city’s rich history, dating back to the 19th century.
Lining the streets is an array of stunning, historic architecture, including Victorian, Italianate, and Art Deco buildings, each telling their own story of the city’s past.
Among the iconic buildings is the Hotel St. Cloud, a historic landmark built in 1888, known for its Victorian architecture and storied past.
The Fremont County Courthouse, an imposing neoclassical structure, is another noteworthy icon that adds to the city’s historic charm.
You will also find public art, murals, and dinosaur sculptures in downtown.
In addition to the architecture, Downtown Cañon City offers a host of activities for visitors.
You can browse the unique shops for one-of-a-kind treasures, enjoy a meal at the local cafes and restaurants, or explore the local art galleries.
See the artwork at Fremont Center For the Arts
The Fremont Center for the Arts is a vibrant space that celebrates and promotes the arts in the Canon City area.
It is located in the old Post Office building from 1933.
Exhibits here are ever-changing, showcasing a range of mediums from paintings, ceramics, photography, to sculpture.
The center provides a platform for local artists to share their work with the public.
But the center doesn’t just display art, it encourages community participation through a diverse range of workshops, classes, lectures, and even hosts special events throughout the year.
Visit Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Royal Gorge Bridge Park is, undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Canon City, Colorado.
This must-visit attraction offers a blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventure.
At the park, you can cross the historic Royal Gorge Bridge, towering 956 feet above the Arkansas River.
Constructed in 1929, it held the title of the world’s highest suspension bridge until 2001.
It continues to be America’s highest suspension bridge and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
After marveling at the breathtaking view, you can check out the park, museum, and theatre on the other side.
For the adrenaline junkies, the park offers the Royal Rush Skycoaster, propelling you out over the edge of the Gorge at a heart-pounding speed.
Don’t forget to take a ride on the aerial gondolas.
The 360-degree view of the Royal Gorge region from the gondolas will leave you speechless.
For those interested in wildlife, the park is home to elk, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Before you leave, remember to stop by the visitor center for souvenirs and learn more about the park’s history.
Take a ride on the scenic Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Another must-do activity in Canon City is a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
This scenic train journey offers an extraordinary way to witness the spectacular views of the Royal Gorge.
Launched in 1879, the railroad has been taking passengers through one of Colorado’s most unforgettable landscapes for over a century.
Aboard the train, you can enjoy a gourmet lunch or dinner as you take in the stunning rock formations and the rushing Arkansas River below.
The train provides an enclosed, climate-controlled experience, perfect for any weather.
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is not just a ride, but a full-sensory immersion into Colorado’s wild beauty.
Be sure to bring your camera along – the views are simply breathtaking on this spectacular rail journey!
Enjoy a trip on the Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is one of the most scenic driving routes in Colorado.
Skyline Drive offers a panoramic view of the city and beyond.
This narrow, winding road is perched on the top of a high ridge and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The drive begins with a steep, hairpin turn, but your courage will be rewarded as you reach the top.
There, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Canon City, the Arkansas River, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and in the distance, the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
Along the way, you will also find dinosaur footprints preserved in the rock on the side of the roadway, a nod to the region’s ancient past.
Note that the road is single-lane and one-way, making it a thrilling experience for adventurous drivers.
Remember to drive slow and safe and enjoy the views.
Visit the Museum of Colorado Prisons
The Museum of Colorado Prisons, located next to the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility in Canon City, is a unique museum.
This museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of prisons in Colorado.
It features interactive exhibits and displays, including original artifacts from the prison such as cell doors and locks.
You can also explore the notorious Death Row wing and learn about inmates’ lives over the years through photos, interviews, documents, and other materials.
At the museum, you can even take a guided tour of the prison yard and get an up-close look at where inmates used to be held.
The Museum of Colorado Prisons is a great way to experience Canon City’s past and its link to the Wild West.
Explore the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center
If you’re interested in the rich history and culture of Canon City, a visit to the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center should be on your itinerary.
This museum is a treasure trove of information, offering a detailed look into the city’s past, from its earliest days to the present.
The museum is housed in a historic building, which itself dates back to the early 20th century.
Inside, you can explore a wide range of exhibits that cover various aspects of the region’s history.
See galleries about the construction of the Royal Gorge Bridge, the growth of the railroad, and the evolution of local industries.
Besides its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibits and special events throughout the year.
Its research library boasts a vast collection of books, maps, photographs, and documents related to the history of Canon City and the surrounding region.
The Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center is not just a place to learn about the past.
It’s a place to connect with the community’s roots and appreciate the intricate tapestry of stories that make Canon City what it is today.
Don’t miss the chance to delve into this enriching cultural experience.
Savor fine wines at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
Located at the base of the stunning Rocky Mountains and on the grounds of a beautiful old monastery, you will find The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey.
It is a must-visit for all wine connoisseurs.
This award-winning winery boasts a splendid selection of wines, crafted with passion and precision.
The Abbey itself is a beautiful little gem and has striking architecture.
They offer guided tours, where you can learn about the wine-making process, from vine to bottle, and partake in wine tastings.
Their tasting room, set in a tranquil garden setting, is the perfect place to sample their assortment of vino, which ranges from robust reds to crisp whites.
Wine tastings are paired with local gourmet cheeses, enhancing your culinary experience.
The winery also hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, offering a delightful blend of wine, music, and scenic beauty.
Before leaving, make sure to stop by their wine shop and pick up a bottle or two of your favorite wine as a memento of your visit.
Take the kids to the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience
For those traveling with kids, or anyone with a fascination for prehistoric creatures, the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience is a must-visit.
Located just a short drive from the Royal Gorge Bridge, this interactive museum and park provides a thrilling journey back in time to the age of the dinosaurs.
Within the museum, you’ll find life-sized dinosaur replicas, fossils, and interactive displays that will keep you captivated.
You can walk through the Dinosaur Wild Walk, a setup of realistic dinosaur exhibits in a natural, outdoor setting.
This trail offers an enchanting experience as you come face-to-face with full-sized dinosaur models, including a fearsome T-Rex and a towering Brachiosaurus.
The museum also offers a multi-story ropes course for those seeking a bit of adventure.
This course allows you to experience what it might have been like navigating through a Jurassic jungle.
The Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience is an educational and fun destination that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Discover the Prehistoric Wonders at Garden Park Fossil Area
Garden Park Fossil Area, located just 6 miles north of Canon City, is a significant paleontological site rich in dinosaur fossils.
This area, a designated National Natural Landmark, has been a source of important discoveries for over a century.
The vast, open parkland is marked with signs detailing the different dinosaur species that once inhabited the region, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past.
The highlight of this area is undoubtedly the chance to see real dinosaur fossils in the place where they were discovered.
Geological formations reveal distinct layers of time, providing an unparalleled window into prehistoric life.
Visitors can walk along the designated trails, spotting fragments of dinosaur bones and other fossils still embedded in the rocks.
Moreover, Garden Park Fossil Area is not just about the dinosaurs.
Its beautiful desert landscape, dotted with junipers and pinon pines, offers great spots for picnicking and wildlife viewing.
Visitors might spot deer, rabbits, and a variety of birds in the area.
Exploring the Garden Park Fossil Area is like stepping into a time machine, journeying back to a world long lost but immortalized in the stone.
It’s a must-visit for any paleontology enthusiast or anyone interested in the Earth’s history.
Remember to respect the area and leave the fossils as you found them for future generations to discover and enjoy.
Hike the Tunnel Drive Trail
The Tunnel Drive Trail is an excellent trail situated just west of downtown Canon City.
Located off Highway 50, the entry point for the trail is easy to access and well-marked.
The trail extends for a comfortable 2 miles, making it a perfect choice for beginners and families with kids.
The route follows the old grade of the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad and takes hikers through three tunnels, hence the name “Tunnel Drive Trail”.
As you traverse the path, you’ll be treated to stunning views over the Arkansas River and the craggy cliffs of the Royal Gorge.
The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and is best used from March until October.
Spend a day at Temple Canyon Park
Temple Canyon Park, located just a few miles southwest of Canon City, is a hidden gem within the city’s natural attractions.
This secluded nature reserve is home to a unique natural amphitheatre, which gives the park its name.
The park is nestled in a canyon and provides outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and exploring.
The park offers several hiking trails that meander through the landscape, providing hikers with captivating views of the city and surrounding landscape.
The Temple Canyon trail, a 3.6-mile round trip, takes visitors to the natural amphitheatre, or ‘temple’.
This ‘temple’ is a large cave-like formation created by erosion, offering a quiet, secluded spot to enjoy the serenity of the park.
Along with hiking, the park also offers excellent spots for a quiet picnic amidst nature.
Furthermore, its unique landscape and rich local flora make it a popular spot among nature photographers.
The park is open year-round, but visiting it during the spring or fall season adds an additional layer of beauty to the stunning natural scenery.
Enjoy hiking at Red Canyon Park
Red Canyon Park, situated just a few miles north of Canon City, is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
This expansive natural area, spanning 600 acres, is renowned for its striking red sandstone formations that form a unique landscape, reminiscent of the famous Garden of the Gods.
The park’s trail network weaves through these formations, providing hikers with a memorable trekking experience.
Highlights include the Red Canyon Hike and the Arch, both of which offer breathtaking views of the red rock vistas and the vast, open Colorado sky.
Wildlife watchers may spot mule deer, rabbits, a variety of birds, and even the occasional fox.
Go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River
The Arkansas River, flowing through the heart of Canon City, offers a thrilling whitewater rafting experience.
Ranked as one of the nation’s most popular sites for whitewater rafting, the river’s natural course is beautifully punctuated by rapids of varying intensities.
The rafting trip is ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters.
As you navigate through the foaming waters, you have breathtaking views of Royal Gorge and the surrounding natural beauty.
Several local outfitters offer guided rafting tours, ensuring a safe and exciting adventure.
They provide all necessary equipment, including life vests, helmets, and paddles, as well as basic training before you hit the water.
The rafting trips vary in length, from short two-hour runs to full-day excursions.
It’s not just about the thrill, though; along the way, you’re likely to spot local wildlife and learn about the area’s rich history and geology from your knowledgeable guide.
So, gear up and get ready to ride the waves of the Arkansas River, for an experience that epitomizes the spirit of Canon City’s outdoor adventures.
Enjoy off roading with Colorado Jeep Tours
Colorado Jeep Tours offer an exhilarating off-road experience through some of Canon City’s most scenic landscapes.
These guided tours traverse rugged terrains and steep mountain paths in state-of-the-art, 4×4 jeeps.
The professional guides are knowledgeable in the region’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Tours vary in length, ranging from half-day to full-day adventures.
They cover several iconic locations including Royal Gorge, Red Canyon Park, and more.
Go on a rafting trip through Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Bighorn Sheep Canyon, just a few miles from Canon City, offers another exhilarating rafting experience that you should not miss.
This canyon, named for the large herd of Bighorn sheep that calls it home, offers a rafting journey that combines scenic beauty with thrilling rapids.
The river’s course through the canyon has class II to class III rapids, making it suitable for families and first-time rafters.
Echo Canyon River Expeditions is one of the leading outfitters offering rafting trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
They provide a variety of options, ranging from half-day tours to full-day excursions.
Their expert guides ensure your safety while also providing fascinating insights about the canyon’s geology and wildlife.
As you paddle the rapids, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the namesake Bighorn sheep.
You can spot them along the canyon rims, which adds another layer of excitement to this unforgettable rafting experience.
Stunning views of the Rockies, the highest suspension bridge in America, a scenic railroad, water sports, historical and cultural attractions.
Canon City is the ultimate destination if you want a fun filled holiday.
Canon City also makes a perfect day trip from Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak region.
It is also just a few hours away from Denver.
In spite of so many attractions, so many tourists still skip Canon City!
We recommend adding it to your next vacation in Colorado and going off the beaten path.
What are your favorite things to do in Canon City, Colorado? Let us know below.