What is Canon City known for?

Canon City, Colorado is best known as the gateway to the Royal Gorge - home of America's highest suspension bridge. The city is also famous for world-class whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, zipline adventures, Red Canyon Park, historic downtown architecture, and abundant Colorado sunshine.

What are the best things to do in Canon City Colorado?

Top things to do in Canon City, CO include: visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, riding the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, exploring Red Canyon Park, driving the Phantom Canyon Road, zipline tours, hiking at Temple Canyon Park, visiting the Museum of Colorado Prisons, and dining in the historic downtown.

Is Canon City near Denver?

Canon City is approximately 115 miles (about 2 hours) southwest of Denver via US-50 and I-25. It is located in Fremont County in south-central Colorado. Colorado Springs is the nearest major city, about 45 miles north of Canon City.

What outdoor activities are available in Canon City?

Canon City offers exceptional outdoor activities including: Class III-V whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, rock climbing at Shelf Road, hiking at Red Canyon Park and Temple Canyon, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, zipline tours over the Royal Gorge, scenic drives through Phantom Canyon and Oak Creek Grade, and stargazing in the dark skies above Fremont County.

Rainy Day Activities

1 dayeasy

Don't let weather dampen your spirits - this itinerary features indoor activities, covered attractions, and cozy spots to wait out the rain.

Best for: families, bad weather, flexible travelers

Your Day

afternoon

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: 2 hours

Entirely indoors and endlessly fascinating.

afternoon

Wine Tasting at Winery at Holy Cross Abbey

Taste Colorado wines at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, on the grounds of the historic Benedictine abbey on the east side of Canon City.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

Wine tasting in the cozy tasting room.

evening

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 the day with comfort food and craft cocktails at this cozy local favorite.

Tips for This Itinerary

Colorado rain showers are often brief - keep outdoor plans flexible
Bring a rain jacket rather than canceling activities entirely
Some attractions may close in severe weather - call ahead
This is a great day to catch up on vacation rental relaxation
Whitewater Rooftop Social is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and for its winter break from January 4 through February 25 - plan that meal for another day

Sources

visitcanoncity.net

Last updated: January 6, 2026