The 11 Best Things To Do In Adorable Cañon City, Colorado (2024)

While the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush brought the first settlers to Cañon City, the city has grown since its Wild West origins and is now known for its abundance of wild, natural beauty.

This beauty is celebrated with breathtaking views at Royal Gorge, along the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, on scenic drives, and in public parks. The history of the area is still recognized, and as such, the Cañon City Downtown Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. A visit to the area combines the old with the new and immerses visitors in this adorable city’s history and beauty.

Things To Do In Cañon City

I was invited to Cañon City to view the beauty up close with a stay in a charming cabin, a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, and plenty of stunning — yet hair-raising — adventures at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Here’s what I found.

The 11 Best Things To Do In Adorable Cañon City, Colorado (1)

1. Royal Gorge Bridge

There are several adventures at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, both natural wonders and those created for the thrill-seeker. At over 956 feet above the Arkansas River, the bridge is one of the world’s highest suspension bridges. Walk or drive across the slatted bridge to discover fun activities on both sides of the gorge.

2. Royal Gorge Bridge And Park

In addition to the stunning views overlooking the canyon, there are several adventures waiting for those who aren’t faint of heart. I’m not a thrill-seeker, but my companion reveled in riding the gondola across the canyon and zip-lining on the Cloudscraper Zip Line. Neither of us dared try the Skycoaster with its 50-miles-per-hour free fall, but it is a great opportunity for those the adrenaline junkies in your group.

For kids, there’s the Tommy Knocker Playland.

3. Via Ferrata

For those who want to try climbing, there’s a mountaineering experience on the gorge walls called Via Ferrata. You can hike and climb the granite rock walls on a guided climbing tour, with different challenge levels from easy to difficult.

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4. Royal Gorge Route Railroad

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a 2-hour scenic ride that travels 24 miles from Cañon City to the Royal Gorge Bridge and back. Enjoy fine dining in one of the dining cars, and then step outside onto one of the open-air cars and see the scenery as you are mere inches from the rock walls. Learn more about the railroad in this article I wrote about Colorado train rides.

It’s a tough decision whether the food or the scenery is more spectacular, but luckily you can enjoy them both. Choose from the dome car on the second level of the train or one of the dining cars for breakfast, lunch, and dinner train rides.

5. Tunnel Drive Trail

There’s a 4-mile round-trip Tunnel Drive Trail that follows an old irrigation canal not far from town. This hike provides excellent views of the Arkansas River and the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.

6. Echo Canyon River Expeditions

The rafting season ended just a week before our arrival, but years ago, on a family trip, we rafted Echo Canyon with Echo Canyon River Expeditions. Since the tour company offers calm day trips or extreme whitewater experiences as well as camping and rafting adventures, there’s something for every skill level.

After a day on the water, 8 Mile Bar and Grill is known for its burgers and fish tacos, but a local told me that the ahi tuna salad is one of the best she’s ever tasted. There’s a 16-tap bar with local and classic brews on tap, making it a favorite hangout for the after-rafting crowd.

7. Garden Park Fossil Area

Enjoy an abundance of public parks and paleontological sites such as the Garden Park Fossil Area, where dinosaur fossils have been discovered.

8. Red Canyon Park

One park you won’t want to miss is Red Canyon Park, with its beautiful red rock formations that have become canyons and monoliths over time. Explore the 640-acre park on or off the designated trails.

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9. Skyline Drive

Drive Skyline Drive, a 2.6-mile route that is breathtaking as well as challenging with a steep incline, at times narrow passages, and a rising and falling route. Luckily there are frequent pullouts so you can pull over and take in the view without driving.

10. Museum of Colorado Prisons

We passed the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility, in continuous operation since 1871, several times and wondered about it. It turns out there’s a museum located in a former women’s prison that sits adjacent to the correctional facility. The Museum of Colorado Prisons gives you a glimpse into the Colorado prison system’s history and operations with exhibits that tell the story of its past set in an actual prison. View preserved inmate cells, along with artifacts related to infamous Colorado criminals.

11. Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience

Every day, as we would drive from one activity to another, we saw dinosaur statues. My companion commented that the Cañon City area is big on dinosaurs. If you’re interested as well, one place to get your fill and experience dinosaur history up close is at the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience. It’s a fun and educational way to learn about Colorado’s paleontological history with interactive exhibits, full-scale fossil casts, actual dinosaur fossils, guided tours, and even an outdoor multistory ropes course.

Best Restaurants In Cañon City

Colorado cuisine is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, and Cañon City is no exception. I mentioned some restaurants that are located on-site at attractions, but you’ll also want to head into town and sample some of these local favorites.

Owl Cigar Store

The historic Owl Cigar Store is a Cañon City institution. And rather than a cigar store as the name implies (it was a cigar store until the mid-90s), you’ll find an American diner and pool hall known for its burgers and shakes.

Pizza Madness

A local hangout, Pizza Madness serves award-winning pies in a fun atmosphere. The pizza options are unique: Choose from white, wheat, or gluten-free crust; marinara, pesto, Alfredo, barbecue, or garlic and olive oil sauces; and a variety of vegetable, meat, and cheese toppings. Go with the local taste and order the Colorado with chicken, green chilis, black olives, and bacon.

Le Petite Chablis

Taste authentic French cuisine served in a romantic setting at Le Petite Chablis. Start with either the French Onion Soup or Escargots de Bourgogne with a half dozen snails served on a shell with garlic parsley butter. For the main course, try the Canard a l’Orange, a half duck that is roasted, boneless, and served with an orange Au Marnier sauce, or one of the fresh seafood options such as the Truite Rouge Amandine — fresh red trout sauteed with lemon butter and almonds.

Nirvana Culinary Paradise

We stumbled upon Nirvana Culinary Paradise as we arrived in Cañon City hungry after a hike and a drive that morning. The authentic North Indian food hit the spot. We started with the Momo, dumplings filled with chicken, and then ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala and Shrimp Tandoori for our main dishes. We both ordered the spice level three (with a choice of one through five), and the heat was pretty intense — but extremely tasty. The dishes came with basmati rice, and we ordered buttered naan to enjoy with the meal. Both of us got to-go boxes and took the leftovers to the cabin with us to enjoy as a snack later.

Royal Gorge Mansion

Step back in time and enjoy high tea inside a historic Colorado mansion built in 1882. Afternoon tea includes classic teas, bubbly, and wine, plus sweet and savory goodies such as gourmet finger sandwiches, homemade scones, and petite fours for an authentic experience.

Best Sips In Cañon City

Sangre Distilleries

If locally distilled spirits and wine are of interest, stop by Sangre Distilleries to sample their Wet Mountain artisan hand-crafted spirits. Though an hour from Cañon City, the drinks are worth a stop.

The Winery At Holy Cross Abbey

Or visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey located at the historic Holy Cross Abbey. Sample their award-winning wines with a free tasting in the tasting room, or you’ll also find bottles for sale in many local businesses. We purchased a bottle to enjoy with the sunset view at our cabin.

Best Places To Stay In Cañon City

Royal Gorge Cabins

We spent two nights at the Royal Gorge Cabins. Our luxury two-story cabin with two bedrooms included a full kitchen, indoor/outdoor fireplace, and a living room with two sets of sliding doors that led to the patio. We spent most of our time on the patio watching hummingbirds flit on the plants, several birds in the tree next to the cabin, and the gorgeous mountain range that delivered a spectacular sunset. There was a dining table by the outdoor fireplace along with a hammock and two chairs to sit and watch the sunset.

Pro Tip: For those who prefer glamping, there are also glamping tents for a more rustic experience. While the location feels remote, it’s a short and scenic 10 minutes into the city.

Creekside Log Cabin

This VRBO cabin with a mountain view is situated on a family farm just a couple miles from Cañon City. The 800-square-foot cabin has one bedroom but will sleep four with a pull-out couch in the living room. The cabin and decor are cozy and comfortable and the rental is dog- and family-friendly.

Pro Tip: The steps leading up to the bedroom are extremely steep, so this would not be an ideal choice for anyone with hip or knee problems.

The 11 Best Things To Do In Adorable Cañon City, Colorado (2024)

FAQs

Is Cañon City worth visiting? ›

Cañon City is known for its breathtaking plant and wildlife, so make sure to look all around you as you explore the area's trails. Beginners can try the Arkansas Riverwalk, an easy route for a light stroll and a perfect site to bring out the binoculars and spend some time birding.

What is Canon City Co known for? ›

Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Cañon City city is a gem waiting to be explored! The area is renowned for its incredible landscapes, fascinating history, thrilling adventures, and inviting vineyards and microbreweries. With its year-round mild climate, this city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

Does Canon City have a downtown area? ›

Cañon City's downtown area is listed on the National Historical Register for its abundance of turn-of-the-century architecture. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of a bygone era as you enjoy local dining, boutiques, music, and art galleries.

How long is the Royal Gorge train ride? ›

Morning and afternoon daily departures are 1 hour and 50 minutes, round trip. Evening departures at 6:30 are approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, round trip.

Can you see the Royal Gorge for free? ›

The free Overlook Trail enables visitors to see the gorge and get a taste of what they are about to experience. The trail is easy and offers beautiful views of the gorge and bridge. To reach the trail, turn left at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park turnoff and follow County Road 3A until you reach the trailhead.

Is Cañon City Colorado a good place to live? ›

Living in Cañon City offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many retirees live in Cañon City and residents tend to be conservative. The public schools in Cañon City are above average.

Is the gondola in Royal Gorge free? ›

The Aerial Gondola ride is included in our General Admission ticket and guests are free to experience the thrill of riding it an unlimited amount of times during their visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park.

Can you walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge without paying? ›

Is there a fee to cross the bridge? Yes, there is a fee to enter the park and walk on the bridge. The bridge was built in 1929 to be a tourist attraction and there has always been a fee to cross.

How long does it take to walk across the Royal Gorge? ›

About 5 minutes at a moderate pace without stopping. The bridge is 1260 feet. Most people will stop to look over the sides into the gorge or stop to read the placards that give different historical bits of information. So a lazy walk across, stopping to read some history will take about 40 minutes.

What is Cañon City, Colorado famous for? ›

Welcome to Cañon City, home of the Royal Gorge Bridge — the highest suspension bridge in America. In addition to the activities available at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, the area offers a variety of outdoor adventures for the entire family year-round.

Is Cañon City worth a visit? ›

Known as Colorado's Royal Gorge Region, Cañon City offers world-class attractions and activities. The area draws in visitors from all over to see the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and its unique collection of dinosaur bones and fossils.

What is Cañon City nickname? ›

The city's nickname, "the Climate Capital of Colorado", derives from the combination of unique geography and 5,300-foot (1,600 m) elevation protecting the city from harsh weather conditions.

How far is Cañon City from Denver train? ›

The distance between Denver Union Station and Cañon City is 120 miles. The road distance is 117.1 miles.

How long is Cañon City to Colorado? ›

The fastest way to get from Colorado to Cañon City is to drive which takes 2h 11m and costs $20 - $30. How far is it from Colorado to Cañon City? The distance between Colorado and Cañon City is 128 miles. The road distance is 115.2 miles.

Is Cañon City a small town? ›

Cañon City is the county seat of Fremont County in southern Colorado, with a population of approximately 17,363 people within the city limits, and another 5,000 to 7,000 people within the surrounding area in Fremont County.

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