Things To Do
in Cañon City
Cañon City, located in Colorado, is known for its stunning surroundings with the Arkansas River running through the town. The city is surrounded by scenic natural wonders, such as the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, offering breathtaking views. Cañon City has a rich history as a former mining town, with many historic buildings and museums to explore.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, rafting, and rock climbing in the picturesque landscapes surrounding the city.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in North America. Take in the breathtaking views and snap some unforgettable photos.
Enjoy a scenic gondola ride across the gorge or try out the zip line for an adrenaline rush. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby café.
Wind down with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the beautiful sunset over the gorge. Consider a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to finish the day.
Spend your morning hiking the trails in Royal Gorge Park, surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife. Take along a packed breakfast to enjoy in nature.
After lunch, spend some time exploring the park’s visitor center for interesting exhibits about the area's history. Don’t forget to take a few photos!
For dinner, try a local BBQ joint where you can savor delicious, smoky flavors. Relax by the fire pit at your accommodation to share stories from the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic views and natural beauty, including access to the Arkansas River and the Royal Gorge.
- A variety of outdoor recreational activities available, such as hiking, rafting, and rock climbing.
- Rich history with several historical sites and museums.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with local events and festivals.
- Mild climate, providing opportunities for year-round outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Higher crime rates compared to some other small towns.
- Potential isolation from larger urban centers, limiting access to amenities.
- Seasonal tourist influx can lead to overcrowding.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
Best Activities in Cañon City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the highest suspension bridge in North America, offering breathtaking views of the Royal Gorge and the Arkansas River. Enjoy zip-lining, walking trails, and a visitor center.
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, which features a variety of rapids suitable for all skill levels. Guided tours are available for an exciting adventure.
Explore stunning red rock formations and beautiful trails in Red Canyon Park. There are several hiking options ranging from easy to moderate levels, perfect for family outings.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Pueblo Riverwalk, featuring beautiful scenery, parks, and plenty of spots for picnicking along the Arkansas River.
A scenic path that winds along the Arkansas River, offering beautiful views, walking trails, and access to local shops and eateries.
Discover the history of the region through outdoor exhibits and activities hosted by the museum, featuring local wildlife and geological displays.
Enjoy fishing in the Arkansas River, known for its good populations of trout. There are multiple access points along the river for anglers of all experience levels.
Hit the trails for an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking experience in the Cañon City area, with several trails that cater to different skill levels and biking styles.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cañon City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cañon City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Arkansas River and the surrounding canyon.
A scenic drive that overlooks the city and provides panoramic views of the area.
Features beautiful rock formations and hiking trails with picturesque views.
Food in Cañon City
Cañon City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional delicacy, Rocky Mountain Oysters are deep-fried bull testicles, offering a unique and adventurous local dining experience. They can be savored at various local eateries, including The Owl Cigar Store.
Must-Try!
Green Chili, a staple in Colorado cuisine, is a spicy stew made with pork, tomatoes, and a variety of green chili peppers. This dish can be enjoyed at The Buckskin Joe Restaurant.
The Pueblo Slopper features a cheeseburger smothered in green chili, adding a zesty kick to this iconic local dish. For a classic taste of this dish, head to the Royal Gorge Route Railroad's dining car.
Not to be missed, Palisade Peaches are a delectable local treat known for their sweet and juicy flavor. They can be found at the local farmers' markets during the peak season.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cañon City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Cañon City Farmers Market is a great place to explore local produce and artisanal food items. Visitors can find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted goods, providing a fantastic opportunity to sample the region's flavors.
The Food Truck Park in Cañon City offers a diverse array of street food options, ranging from gourmet burgers and tacos to delectable desserts. It's a hub for casual dining and enjoying a wide range of culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Understanding and respecting the local customs and traditions is essential. Engage with community events and show interest in the heritage of Cañon City to foster goodwill.
Using polite language and good manners is highly valued. Practice saying 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me' often when interacting with locals.
Given Cañon City's proximity to nature and outdoor activities, always follow the Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and be courteous to fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cañon City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cañon City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cañon City, as in most of the United States, it is customary to tip service workers to show appreciation for good service. The standard tipping rate is usually around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants. Tips for other services, such as barbers, hairdressers, and hotel staff, typically range from 10-20%. It is important for residents and visitors to be aware of this practice, as it is an essential part of the income for many service workers.
Payment methods in Cañon City include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and there are numerous ATMs available for cash withdrawals. It is advisable for visitors to check with individual establishments regarding their preferred payment methods, especially in smaller or family-owned businesses, which may have varying policies.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cañon City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cañon City, with pleasant weather, flowers in bloom, and outdoor activities like hiking and whitewater rafting available.
Great time to visit with warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures such as ziplining, rock climbing, and exploring the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.
Ideal time for sightseeing, as the foliage turns vibrant colors, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives and wine tasting at local wineries.
Cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for indoor activities like visiting local museums, enjoying hot springs, and taking scenic train rides.
Cañon City at Night
Hiking in Cañon City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A premier destination featuring scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River.
A rugged dirt road offering access to several trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and unique rock formations.
This park features various trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, all offering picturesque canyon views.
A relatively easy trail that runs along the Arkansas River, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.
A hidden gem with trails that lead to a stunning gorge, featuring unique rock formations and opportunities for swimming.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cañon City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cañon City by plane.
The largest airport in the state of Colorado, located approximately 110 miles north of Cañon City. It serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Located about 50 miles north of Cañon City, this airport offers various regional and limited international flights, serving the Colorado Springs area.
Situated around 38 miles east of Cañon City, this smaller airport offers limited commercial flights and is primarily used for regional travel.
Approximately 150 miles west of Cañon City, this airport serves as a gateway to the western slope of Colorado, providing seasonal flights primarily to ski resorts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Cañon City, primarily consisting of individuals identifying as Caucasian.
A significant portion of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, encompassing various ethnic backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group consisting of individuals of African descent.
This group includes individuals who identify as Native American, reflecting the historical presence of Indigenous peoples.
A minority group comprising individuals from various Asian ethnic backgrounds.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories, representing a mixed heritage.
This category includes smaller demographic groups that do not fall into the other specified categories.
The Soul of Cañon City
Discover the essence of Cañon City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on indoor courts, involving shooting a ball through a hoop.
A widely played team sport where two teams compete to score points by advancing a ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A bat-and-ball sport played between two teams that take turns batting and fielding.
An increasingly popular team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net.
A contested sport involving grappling techniques, with participants scoring points based on their performance.
A variety of athletic contests based on running, jumping, and throwing, often held in schools and local competitions.
A bat-and-ball sport similar to baseball, commonly played recreationally and competitively.
A team sport that involves running with an oval ball and scoring points by touching it down in the opponent's in-goal area.
An individual or group sport that involves riding bicycles for recreation and competition across various terrains.
A popular individual sport involving competitive racing in various stroke styles, often organized at local pools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cañon City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors with vegetarian or vegan dietary preferences can find a variety of options at local restaurants such as The Michael's on Main and Good Thyme Cafe, both of which provide thoughtfully crafted plant-based dishes.
For those requiring gluten-free options, several eateries in Cañon City, including The Michael's on Main, accommodate this need by offering gluten-free versions of selected menu items.