Downtown Cañon City Historic District
Experience the dramatic beauty of the Royal Gorge via a scenic train ride or by walking across the iconic suspension bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Train operates seasonally
Downtown Cañon City Historic District
Best Time
Train operates seasonally
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the dramatic beauty of the Royal Gorge via a scenic train ride or by walking across the iconic suspension bridge.
"WORTH EVERY PENNY! The Royal Gorge is one of the most popular train rides in the world. "
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early!
Vista Dome and other popular seats on the Royal Gorge Train sell out fast. Book well in advance!
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Main Street
Wander through the charming downtown for unique shops and local flavor.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Gorge Train Ride
Santa Fe Depot, Canon City
Experience breathtaking views of the Royal Gorge from a unique perspective on this scenic train journey.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Near Canon City
Walk across the iconic suspension bridge or experience thrilling activities with stunning canyon vistas.
Historic Downtown Canon City
Main Street, Canon City
Explore charming historic buildings, local shops, and unique eateries in the heart of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Train Tickets in Advance
Consider Your Day Trip Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early!
Vista Dome and other popular seats on the Royal Gorge Train sell out fast. Book well in advance!
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Main Street
Wander through the charming downtown for unique shops and local flavor.
☀️ Enjoy the Open-Air Cars
If weather permits, stand outside during the train ride for epic views!
💰 Food & Drinks for Purchase
Alcohol and food are available on the train, but not included in ticket price.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early!
Vista Dome and other popular seats on the Royal Gorge Train sell out fast. Book well in advance!
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Main Street
Wander through the charming downtown for unique shops and local flavor.
☀️ Enjoy the Open-Air Cars
If weather permits, stand outside during the train ride for epic views!
💰 Food & Drinks for Purchase
Alcohol and food are available on the train, but not included in ticket price.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the scenic beauty and unique experience of the Royal Gorge Train ride, with many calling it a 'worth every penny' adventure. The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park also receives high marks for its breathtaking views and thrilling activities. Some travelers note that food and drinks on the train are an additional cost and that booking tickets in advance is essential.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Canon City is approximately a 2-hour drive from Denver, making it a feasible day trip or a good stop on a longer Colorado road trip.
The Royal Gorge Train departs from the Santa Fe Depot in Canon City. Driving is the most common method, with parking available at the depot.
Public transportation options directly to Canon City are limited. Most visitors arrive by car.
Yes, Canon City offers attractions like the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and a historic downtown, making it a worthwhile destination for a short stay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Royal Gorge Train vary by seating class, with options like Vista Dome costing around $129. It's best to check their official website for current pricing.
The Royal Gorge Train typically runs from March through December, but it's essential to check their schedule for specific dates and times.
While possible, it's strongly advised to book tickets in advance, as popular seating options can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
The train offers various seating classes, including coach, deluxe, dome, and first class, each providing a different experience and view.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always a good idea to check the official Royal Gorge Train website or inquire directly for any potential offers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, you can walk across the historic suspension bridge, ride the gondola, and enjoy various thrill rides with stunning canyon views.
Yes, some train cars, like the open-air observation cars, allow passengers to stand outside during the ride for unobstructed views.
The train ride typically lasts about an hour and a half, offering a good amount of time to soak in the scenery.
Absolutely! The historic downtown features charming architecture, local shops, and restaurants, offering a pleasant stroll and a glimpse into the town's past.
You'll experience dramatic canyon walls, the Arkansas River below, and the rugged beauty of the Royal Gorge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, food and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on the train but are not included in the ticket price.
Yes, downtown Canon City offers a variety of local restaurants and cafes serving different cuisines.
The official policy on bringing outside food and drinks is not widely specified, but it's generally recommended to check with the train operator or rely on their onboard offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offers incredible panoramic shots. The train ride itself provides unique photographic opportunities from the open-air cars. +1
Yes, especially from the open-air cars where you have unobstructed views. Be mindful of other passengers and safety.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the gorge and bridge. Midday can be harsh but still offers dramatic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park also has elements that appeal to families, with the bridge walk being an adventure in itself. Some of the thrill rides might be suitable for older children. Downtown Canon City offers a more relaxed pace with opportunities for ice cream or a casual meal.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Denver
To maximize your day, book your train tickets for a time that allows for a comfortable drive and perhaps a quick exploration of the historic downtown or a brief visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Be prepared for an early start and a late return.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. The historic downtown also presents charming architectural details and street scenes for urban photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Gorge Train Experience
Many travelers highlight the ability to stand in open-air cars as a major selling point, allowing for truly immersive views and photography opportunities.
The train operates seasonally, typically from March to December, so checking the schedule and booking ahead is essential for planning your visit. The ride itself lasts about an hour and a half, providing ample time to appreciate the grandeur of the gorge.
Exploring the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
The park also features other attractions like a gondola that glides across the gorge, providing a different perspective, and thrill rides for the adventurous. The sheer scale of the gorge and the engineering marvel of the bridge are impressive, making it a popular spot for photos and a memorable experience.
While the train ride focuses on the journey through the gorge, the bridge and park allow for a more direct and interactive engagement with this natural wonder. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the geological forces that shaped the region.
Discovering Historic Downtown Canon City
Strolling through downtown provides a relaxed pace to explore the town's character and history. You can find unique souvenirs, enjoy a meal at a local eatery, or simply soak in the atmosphere. It's a great place to unwind after a day of adventure or to get a feel for the local community.
While the Royal Gorge and its train ride are the primary draws, the historic district adds another layer to the Canon City experience, offering a glimpse into the town's past and present.
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