Two Small Towns With Big Fun That You Will Want to Visit (Part 1)

My wife and I had some great times this summer as we had the opportunity to explore many new places where we had never been before.   We are both teachers so we had the entire summer to head out in our truck and take in much of what America was to offer.  However, we realize that not everyone finds themselves in that ideal situation.  Sometimes families have only a week (or less) to spend on a holiday.  In today's and tomorrow's blog we want to highlight a couple of small towns where we think you could easily spend a week's worth of time and never be bored.

The first one I want to mention is Canon City, Colorado.  We had some friends recommend that we check it out.  We were not disappointed!  The primary draw to the area is the Royal Gorge bridge.  It is located only about 10 miles away from the edge of town.  At the bridge you will find a small amusement park complete with rides, shows, food, and music, not to mention some of the most incredible scenery in the entire nation.  Remember that if you get there early, (we went before 9 a.m.) you can get in for 25% off.  We paid $18 a piece.   Your admission gets you on nearly every ride, and access to all shows for no additional charge.  Here is the link to their website:  http://royalgorgebridge.com/ .

View from the Royal Gorge park near Canon City, CO

As you drive toward the Royal Gorge, you will notice a bunch of river rafting companies.  We chose a half-day package for $49 per person.  It was a lot of fun and I consider it one of the highlights of the entire summer.  We took the Big Horn Canyon trip which gave us about 1.5 hours on the water.  We went through a couple of class III rapids, but during the calmer sections of the river we took the time to check out the beautiful mountains.   Next time we go, we will definitely take the Royal Gorge trip.  The rapids are more intense (class IV-V) but the views in that canyon I'm sure will be breathtaking. 

View of the Royal Gorge Route train and river rafters at the bottom of the Incline Railway at the Royal Gorge in CO

We only stayed here a couple of nights so we didn't get the chance to experience everything that this area has to offer.  For instance, there are a couple of scenic train rides that one can enjoy in the area.  One is called the Royal Gorge Route railroad.  It costs about $40 per person.  We did not take it, but it does look like a pretty neat adventure especially for those of you that like trains.  Another one which is about 2 miles from the entrance to the Royal Gorge park, is a 'miniature', open-aired train that I believe runs about $12 a person.  In addition to this, in the town of Canon City you will find museums, an old historic downtown section, and plenty of places to eat. 

View of the sunset from our campground near the Royal Gorge in Colorado

If you don't want to spend a fortune on lodging and you like to camp, I would suggest that you use the Royal Gorge campground just a couple of miles from the entrance to the park.  It is a FREE campground that the City of Canon City operates.  However,  I believe that they ask that you do not occupy the spot over 72 hours.   We loved this campground!  We did a review of the campground in our August 19, 2011 blog.  For those of you that just enjoy being in the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails, or you might want to try fishing in the Arkansas River.   Another free thing to do is take a road called Skyline Drive.  It is a paved one way road going up the side of a mountain that our river rafting guide said offers some beautiful views  of the surrounding area.  Caution:  If you are afraid of heights, or don't like driving close to cliffs then this may not be the scenic trip for you.  A dear friend of mine told us that she spent the entire drive with her head in the back seat.  This was especially sad since she was sitting in the passenger side of the front seat.  Her husband really seemed to enjoy it.  I am not sure though if it was because of the scenery or the funny position that his wife maintained!

Needless to say no matter what your budget may be, you will be able to find something to do in Canon City.  (My gosh, their Chamber of Commerce should really pay me for this...haha) Tomorrow we will talk about our other small town favorite.  Until then, Happy Trails!