
Must-see attractions and viewpoints
sightseeing3-5 hoursExperience one of the world's highest suspension bridges spanning the dramatic 1,250-foot deep Royal Gorge. Enjoy gondola rides, a zip line, and stunning canyon views.
sightseeing2-3 hoursTake a scenic train ride through the heart of the Royal Gorge, following the historic Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad route along the Arkansas River.
history1-2 hoursExplore Colorado's correctional history in this fascinating museum housed in a former women's prison, featuring exhibits on notorious inmates, escape attempts, and prison life.
sightseeing30 minutesDrive along this thrilling one-way road atop a narrow hogback ridge with dinosaur tracks and panoramic views of Canon City and the Wet Mountains.
outdoors2-4 hoursA scenic section of the Arkansas River known for Class II-III rapids and frequent sightings of the bighorn sheep that give the canyon its name.
sightseeing2-3 hoursStroll through Canon City's charming downtown district featuring historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and the beautiful Riverwalk along the Arkansas River.
outdoors1-3 hoursExplore stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and picnic areas in this scenic park north of Canon City.
sightseeing15-45 minutesSee the Royal Gorge from the air with scenic helicopter tours offering breathtaking aerial views of the canyon.
outdoors2-4 hoursExplore backcountry roads and scenic viewpoints on guided Jeep tours through the Royal Gorge region.
sightseeingFull dayDrive this designated scenic and historic byway connecting Canon City to Cripple Creek and Victor through stunning mountain scenery.
sightseeing2-3 hoursA scenic backcountry drive following a historic narrow-gauge railroad route through Phantom Canyon.
outdoors1 hourAn easy 1.5-mile loop trail with stunning overlook views into the Royal Gorge canyon, perfect for families and casual hikers.
sightseeingHalf day to full dayJust 45 minutes from Canon City, explore Colorado's famous gold mining town with historic casinos, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour, and Victorian-era architecture.
sightseeing2-4 hoursExplore this authentic gold mining ghost town with over 500 historic mines, stunning mountain scenery, and the famous Victor Gold Mine viewpoint.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayOne of Colorado's most iconic natural wonders, featuring dramatic red rock formations against Pikes Peak, just 40 miles from Canon City.
outdoors4-6 hoursDrive or take the famous Cog Railway to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, 'America's Mountain,' for panoramic views spanning 100+ miles.
Popular spots to check out during your visit
tour operatorColorado's premier whitewater outfitter offering everything from gentle family floats to heart-pounding Class V rapids through the legendary Royal Gorge.
tour operatorSoar over the Arkansas River valley on one of Colorado's most spectacular zipline courses, featuring multiple lines and breathtaking canyon views.
restaurantCanon City's premier rooftop dining destination — a stunning 2,000 sq ft rooftop patio with panoramic mountain and river views, craft cocktails, signature sandwiches, weekend brunch with bottomless mimosas, and the best sunset in Southern Colorado.