Cañon City Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Cañon City, located in the Colorado region of the United States, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and rich history. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this charming city is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

One of the main attractions in Cañon City is the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. This iconic suspension bridge, towering 956 feet above the Arkansas River, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and mountains. Visitors can walk across the bridge, ride the aerial tram, or even take a thrilling zipline adventure over the gorge.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, a visit to the nearby Cañon City Riverwalk is a must. This scenic pathway follows the Arkansas River and is dotted with charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or simply sit by the river and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Cañon City is also known for its rich history, particularly its connection to the Wild West. Step back in time with a visit to the Museum of Colorado Prisons, housed in a former women's correctional facility. Explore the exhibits detailing the lives of notorious outlaws and learn about the harsh realities of prison life in the late 19th century.

Another historical attraction not to be missed is the Florence Pioneer Museum. Located in the nearby town of Florence, this museum showcases the history of the region, from Native American settlements to the mining boom of the late 1800s. Take a guided tour and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the pioneers who shaped the area.

In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Cañon City offers a variety of recreational activities. Hiking, fishing, and white-water rafting are popular options for outdoor enthusiasts, while wine tasting at the local vineyards provides a more relaxed alternative.

Alternative names: Settled: 1860Population: 16.7 thous.Area: 12.51 mi²Elevation: 5344 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°26'43"N, 105°14'17"W

Location

ColoradoUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Cañon City Top Attractions

Cañon City Attractions - What to See and Explore

Cañon City offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Royal Gorge Bridge, Museum of Colorado Prisons, Abbey, Echo Canyon River Expeditions. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Theme park built around towering bridge
Royal Gorge Bridge
Suspended high above the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge beckons adventurers and sightseers to Cañon City, Colorado. As a marvel of engineering, this tourist attraction in Fremont County is not just a bridge but also a destination that offers an exhilarating...
Specialty museum • Museum • History museum
Museum of Colorado Prisons
The Museum of Colorado Prisons is located off U.S. Highway 50 in Cañon City, Colorado. It is housed in a former state women's prison and is directly east of the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility.
Winery • Church
Abbey
The Abbey of the Holy Cross in Cañon City, Colorado, is a former monastery of the Order of St. Benedict in the United States. It existed for nearly 120 years, operating such various enterprises as a boarding school for boys and a winery. It is listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

38°29'48"N • 105°19'19"W
Echo Canyon River Expeditions
Nature • Natural attraction • Rafting
38°29'48"N • 105°19'8"W
Royal Gorge Helitours
Nature • Natural attraction • Helicopter tours
38°26'22"N • 105°14'29"W
Peabody Mansion
The Peabody Mansion is the former home of former Colorado governor James Hamilton Peabody. It was built on the corner of 4th and River, now 4th and Royal Gorge Boulevard in Cañon City, Colorado.
38°26'17"N • 105°14'44"W
Cañon City State Armory
Canon City State Armory is a historic armory building in Canon City, Colorado. Its design has been credited to Denver architect John J. Huddart. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Fremont County, Colorado.
38°26'25"N • 105°14'17"W
Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center
Specialty museum • Museum
38°26'17"N • 105°14'28"W
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a heritage railroad based in Cañon City, Colorado. A 1950s-era train makes daily 2-hour excursion runs from the Santa Fe Depot through the Royal Gorge along a famous section of the former Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad.
38°29'48"N • 105°19'26"W
Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience
Science museum • Museum
38°26'30"N • 105°14'28"W
Fremont Center for the Arts
Classes and workshops • Art gallery • Museum
Museum • History museum
Cañon City Municipal Building
The Cañon City Municipal Building was built in 1927. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It is a two-story brick Moderne-style building with an H-shaped plan, designed by architect Eugene Groves. It is the current home of the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center.
Church
First Presbyterian Church
The First Presbyterian Church in Cañon City, Colorado, which has also been known as United Presbyterian Church, was completed in 1902 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Church
Christ Episcopal Church
The Christ Episcopal Church in Cañon City, Colorado was built in 1902. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. It is a T-shaped ashlar building consisting of a front-gabled, main section plus a gabled west wing, built in an L-shape in 1902, and a gabled east wing built in 1960.
Neighbourhood • Neoclassical architecture
Cañon City Downtown Historic District
Cañon City Downtown Historic District is a historic district in Cañon City, Colorado. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The historic district listing was based on a 1981 survey by city staff; a 2004-05 survey has been completed which updates and expands upon it.

Day trips

Cañon City – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Cañon City, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sangre de Cristo Arts Center (Pueblo), United States Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel (Colorado Springs), South Cheyenne Cañon (Colorado Springs).

36 milesE
Museum, Theater, Specialty museum
Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, Pueblo
Nestled in the heart of Pueblo, Colorado, the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center is a cultural beacon for the Southern Colorado community and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and families alike. This multifaceted institution, established in 1972, offers a diverse...
43 milesNE
Church, Modernist architecture
United States Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel, Colorado Springs
The United States Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel, a striking and iconic structure, stands proudly within the bounds of the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Renowned for its unusual architecture, the chapel is a celebrated example of modernist design...
31 milesNE
Canyon, Natural attraction, Nature and wildlife
South Cheyenne Cañon, Colorado Springs
Nestled within the scenic grandeur of Colorado Springs, South Cheyenne Cañon is a breathtaking natural marvel that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This stunning canyon, carved by the relentless forces of water and time, offers a tranquil escape...
33 milesNE
Hiking, Hiking trail, Body of water
Manitou Incline, Colorado Springs
The Manitou Incline, a challenging and unique hiking trail located in Colorado Springs, United States, stands as a testament to the adventurous spirit. This steep staircase, with a history rooted in its former life as a cable car track, rises over 2,000 feet in less...
42 milesNE
Sport venue, Arenas and stadiums, Sport
Security Service Field, Colorado Springs
Security Service Field, nestled in the vibrant city of Colorado Springs, stands as a testament to America's enduring love for baseball. This modern stadium, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and picturesque setting, provides an ideal backdrop for enjoying...

Show all

Best Time To Visit Cañon City

Learn when is the best time to travel to Cañon City weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in August.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in August.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Cañon City?

The top attractions to visit in Cañon City are:

What is the best time to visit Cañon City?

June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in August. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.