Fall is coming up, which means cooler weather, falling leaves, and Oktoberfest celebration. With everyone being inside all year long, people are looking to make the most of this fall season. Going on a trip doesn’t mean flying halfway across the country, however. An adventure can always start at the nearest destination, which is why we put together an itinerary for your journey to Cañon City. Featuring top shopping, dining and adventures throughout the Royal Gorge Region, these are the stops you should check out. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bag and head on down!
Check-in at Royal Gorge Cabins
Friday | 10pm
Located right outside of Cañon City, the Royal Gorge Cabins are a cozy one and two-bedroom rentals that offer spectacular views of the area. Within minutes you can reach major attractions like the Royal Gorge Bridge, or just kick back and enjoy the features your room offers. Each unit is equipped with a kitchenette, flat screen TV, unlimited WiFi, and other amenities that’ll make you feel right at home.
Abbey Events Complex Tour
Saturday | 9am
Get to know your Cañon City history when you visit the Abbey Events Complex. Originally known as the Holy Cross Abbey & Abbey School, this monastery was built in 1924 and home to over nearly 250 students each year. Today, visitors can go on a guided tour of the chapel, sacristy and more to learn about this historical site and the monks who taught here.
Fremont Center for the Arts
Saturday | 10:30am
Founded in 1947, the Fremont Center for the Arts is a gathering space for visitors and art-lovers to experience different forms of art. You can check out hundreds of art pieces and books from the Greater Fremont County Region, or stop by later for a theater production or musical performance. And if that’s not enough, the center also acts as an educational facility that offers classes like pottery-making, photography, painting and other sessions that’ll bring out the artist in you.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad & Santa Fe Depot
Saturday | 12:30pm
What better way to get your day rolling in Cañon City than a lunch train ride in Colorado aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This train takes you through the Royal Gorge and showcases the most majestic views in the area. Enjoy the journey while dining on your favorites from the 403 Grill — then order craft beers, fantastic wines, cocktails and more from the fully stocked bar throughout the ride.
The lunch train departs at 12:30 p.m., but do yourself a big favor and arrive at 11:30 a.m. to pick your tickets in a leisurely fashion, then shop at the Santa Fe Depot for the very best shopping in the Royal Gorge Region.
Note that Royal Gorge Route Railroad reservations sell out quickly and well in advance. Make your reservations as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on this top rated Canon City experience.
Museum of Colorado Prisons
Saturday | 3:30pm
Are you ready to experience over 140 years of prison history? The Women’s Correctional Facility, adjacent to the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility, is a cell house that’s been transformed into an exhibit that depicts prison life from early Territorial prison days forward. Visitors can learn more about the history of the prison system through a guided tour, where you get to “do time” yourself.
Dinner at 8 Miles Bar & Grill
Saturday | 6pm
Hope you’re hungry! The 8 Miles Bar & Grill is a local favorite that’s nestled next to the Echo Canyon Rafting Expeditions outfit. You’ll have a gorgeous view of the Royal Gorge and surrounding area while enjoying a mouth-watering burger made with fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to wash it down with one of their locally crafted beers on tap.
Happy Endings Caboose Cafe
Sunday | 8:30am
Start your morning at this caboose-turned-coffee-shop. Located near downtown and right next to the Royal Gorge Railroad, enjoy dishes like french toast, breakfast wraps, crepes, bagels and freshly-brewed espresso drinks. Best of all, the Caboose Cafe uses Colorado-sourced ingredients. Open daily 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Sunday | 10am
You can’t leave Cañon City without visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Listed as one of Colorado’s top attractions since 1929, the Royal Gorge Bridge spans over a thousand feet above the Arkansas River. The park is complete with rock climbing, gondolas, skycoaster and other activities that all ages (yes, all ages) can enjoy.
Downtown Cañon City
Sunday | 1pm
Time to make one last stop by heading downtown to experience Cañon City’s turn-of-the-century architecture and shops. Immerse yourself in the local area and enjoy the local dining, boutiques, music and art galleries offered here.
Top Tips
Make your Royal Gorge Route Railroad reservations first, then organize your day’s adventures around that. As we mentioned, this sells out quickly — and you don’t want to miss this epic train ride while you’re in Cañon City.
Bring sunscreen! The Royal Gorge Region is the banana belt of Colorado.
Experience the Perfect Getaway!
Whether you follow the itinerary perfectly, or use it to build your own adventure, Cañon City has several world-class activities and attractions for you to discover. From the beautiful views to the historical sightings, you’ll want to return to this dynamic region.
So stop waiting and come on down! Experience Cañon City for yourself with our getaway weekend itinerary and make it your new favorite destination.
