Ultimate Family Travel Guide to Cañon City, Colorado
Welcome to Cañon City!
Cañon City, Colorado, offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, adventurous activities, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect destination for a family vacation. From thrilling outdoor experiences to educational museums, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
I hope you enjoy this Family Travel Guide to Cañon City, Colorado and your trip. Let us know where you go!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning: Start your adventure by driving the iconic Skyline Drive. This scenic route is a narrow, one-way road that provides breathtaking views of Cañon City and the surrounding landscape. Along the drive, you'll find pullouts where you can stop to take in the scenery and even spot dinosaur tracks from the Cretaceous period (Hashtag Colorado Life) (Insider Families).
Afternoon: After the drive, head to Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. This park features America's highest suspension bridge, standing 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Walk across the bridge for stunning views, or take a ride on the Aerial Gondolas. For the more adventurous, try the Cloudscraper Zipline or the Via Ferrata climbing experience (Hashtag Colorado Life) (Unseen Colorado).
Evening: Settle in for a relaxing evening at one of Cañon City's family-friendly restaurants. 8 Mile Bar & Grill offers a great selection of meals in an open-air setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration (Insider Families).
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
Morning: Kick off the day with a rafting adventure on the Arkansas River. Echo Canyon River Expeditions provides guided tours that cater to both beginners and experienced rafters. Enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting, surrounded by beautiful canyon scenery (The Crazy Tourist).
Afternoon: Visit the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience, where kids and adults alike can marvel at life-sized dinosaur replicas and interactive exhibits. The museum also features a multi-story ropes course, adding an extra layer of adventure to your visit (Hashtag Colorado Life) (Insider Families).
Evening: Wind down with a visit to The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. While the adults can enjoy a wine tasting paired with local cheeses, the kids can explore the beautiful gardens and historic architecture of the monastery (Unseen Colorado) (Tripadvisor).
Day 3: Nature and History
Morning: Embark on a hike in the Royal Gorge Park. For a short and easy hike, the Royal Gorge Overlook Loop offers stunning views of the gorge. For a longer adventure, try the Arkansas River Canyon Rim, Cañon Vista, and Far Out Loop, which spans six miles and provides ample opportunities to appreciate the semi-arid landscape (Rocky Mountain Dreaming).
Afternoon: Explore the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center. This museum delves into the rich history of Cañon City, featuring exhibits on geology, dinosaurs, and the construction of the Royal Gorge Bridge. It's a great way to learn more about the area's past and its natural wonders (The Crazy Tourist) (Unseen Colorado).
Evening: Dine at Di Rito’s Italian Restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty Italian meals with a southern Colorado twist. The homemade pasta and meatballs are a hit with families, and the cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to end your day (Insider Families).
Day 4: Scenic and Cultural Delights
Morning: Take a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This scenic train journey offers unparalleled views of the Royal Gorge and the Arkansas River, with options for dining onboard. It's a relaxing and unique way to experience the area's natural beauty (The Crazy Tourist) (Rocky Mountain Dreaming).
Afternoon: Visit local art galleries like The Artists’ Gallery and the Fremont Center for the Arts. These galleries showcase works by talented local artists and offer a glimpse into the thriving art community in Cañon City (Uncover Colorado).
Evening: For a final dining experience, try Bridge View BBQ. Located near the Royal Gorge Bridge, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some classic BBQ fare while reflecting on your adventures (Insider Families).
Where to Stay
Hotels:
Hampton Inn Cañon City offers comfortable rooms and family-friendly amenities like an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
Best Western Cañon City provides convenient access to many attractions, along with an indoor pool and hot tub.
Camping:
Royal Gorge KOA offers campsites, cabins, and RV hookups, with stunning views and plenty of family activities.
Echo Canyon Campground is another great option, especially if you're planning to raft with Echo Canyon River Expeditions.
VISIT COLORADO!
Cañon City is a treasure trove of adventures, from high-flying ziplines and dinosaur discoveries to scenic drives and historic museums. Whether you're seeking thrills or looking to relax, this charming Colorado town has something for everyone in the family. Enjoy your trip and make memories that will last a lifetime!
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