The Classic Canon City Day Trip
A classic downtown Canon City day - a canyon train ride, lunch in a century-old diner, the prison museum, a stroll along Main Street and the Riverwalk, and a sunset drive before dinner.
Best for: first-time visitors, history lovers, couples
Your Day
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Take a scenic train ride through the heart of the Royal Gorge, following the historic Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad route along the Arkansas River.
Suggested time: 2.5 hours
The train departs from downtown Canon City and follows the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge. Book tickets in advance.
The Owl Cigar Store
Step back in time at this 100+ year-old Canon City institution, serving classic diner fare amid original fixtures and decades of local history.
Suggested time: 1 hour
Lunch at this century-old downtown diner with its original fixtures.
Museum of Colorado Prisons
Explore 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.
Suggested time: 1.5 hours
Colorado's prison history, told inside the old women's prison. Not for young children.
Historic Downtown Canon City
Stroll through Canon City's charming downtown district featuring historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and the beautiful Riverwalk along the Arkansas River.
Suggested time: 1-2 hours
Browse the shops on Main Street and take a stroll along the Riverwalk.
Skyline Drive
Drive along this thrilling one-way road atop a narrow hogback ridge with dinosaur tracks and panoramic views of Canon City and the Wet Mountains.
Suggested time: 30 minutes
A thrilling one-way drive with panoramic views at sunset. Look for dinosaur tracks along the way.
Whitewater Rooftop Social
Canon City's premier rooftop dining destination - a stunning 2,000 sq ft rooftop patio with panoramic mountain and downtown views, craft cocktails, signature sandwiches, Sunday Funday with $8 mimosas and bloody marys (daily drink special), and the best sunset in Southern Colorado.
Suggested time: 1.5 hours
End your day with dinner and drinks at 302 Royal Gorge Blvd downtown.
Tips for This Itinerary
- Book the train in advance, especially in summer
- Bring layers - mountain weather can change quickly
- Make dinner reservations in advance during peak season
- Skyline Drive is one-way and not suitable for large RVs
- Whitewater Bar & Grill and Whitewater Rooftop Social are both closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays - plan those meals for another day
Sources
Last updated: January 6, 2026