The Heart of Adventure: Canon City, Colorado

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pleez and thang-kuh]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-jd]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
• How are you?Howdy, how ya doin'?
  [haw-dee, how yuh doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fahyn. and yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI reckon I don't get it
  [ahy rehk-uhn ahy dohnt get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the menu, please
  [kan ahy teyk uh gan-der at the men-yoo pleez]
• I don't eat meatI ain't into meat
  [ahy ahynt in-too meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheerz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [ahyl set-l uh-p pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [git out-uh heer]
• Call the Police!Call the Sheriff!
  [kawl the sher-iff]
• Call a doctor!Call the doc!
  [kawl the dahk]
• I'm lostI'm plumb lost
  [ahy-uhm pluhmb lost]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahy-uhm feel-in pohr-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [ahy rehk-uhn ahy-uhl bahy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [juhst brow-sin]
• How much is it?How much fer it?
  [haw muhch fuh-r it]
• That's too expensiveThat's a mite pricey
  [thats a myt prahy-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya cut the price?
  [kan yuh kuht the prahys]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what tahym iz it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wuhn]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past (ten)]
• MorningMornin'
  [mawrn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ee-vnin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tom-or-uh]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fohr]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thuh]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats thuh ad-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show mee (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thuh nekst (buhss)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-et (to)]

Canon City was officially founded in 1860 by Captain George Leasure and a group of settlers. Situated in the Royal Gorge region along the Arkansas River, the city was initially established as a supply hub for nearby mining operations. The strategic location provided easy access to crucial resources and facilitated the transportation of goods.

The construction of the Royal Gorge Railroad began in the late 19th century. Completed in 1880, the railroad was a significant engineering feat, overcoming the challenging terrain of the Royal Gorge. It played a vital role in connecting Canon City to other parts of Colorado and facilitated the transportation of mined materials, significantly boosting the local economy.

In 1881, oil was discovered in the nearby Florence area, marking the beginning of the Florence Oil Field. This discovery had a profound impact on Canon City, attracting numerous workers and contributing to the city’s economic growth. The oil boom led to the establishment of refineries and support industries, solidifying Canon City’s role as an industrial hub.

The Colorado Territorial Prison, now known as the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility, was established in Canon City in 1871. It is one of the oldest prisons in the state and has housed some of Colorado's most notorious criminals. The prison has played an essential role in the history of Canon City, influencing its development and contributing to its population growth.

Skyline Drive, a scenic road that winds along a razorback ridge with breathtaking views of Canon City and the surrounding areas, was constructed in 1932. It was built as a part of a public works project during the Great Depression, providing jobs to local residents and creating a lasting tourist attraction. The road is notable for its fossilized dinosaur tracks, adding an element of prehistoric intrigue to its history.

The Holy Cross Abbey, established in 1925, was a Benedictine monastery that became a significant cultural and educational institution in Canon City. The abbey operated a boarding school and contributed to the spiritual and cultural life of the community. Although the monastery closed in 1985, the site remains a historic landmark and hosts various events and activities.

The Canon City Music and Blossom Festival, first held in 1938, is one of the longest-running annual events in the city. The festival celebrates the local community with parades, concerts, and a variety of entertainment. It has become a cherished tradition, drawing visitors from all over the region and highlighting Canon City's vibrant cultural scene.

Canon City is located in Colorado, United States, and is accessible by several means. The nearest major airport is Colorado Springs Airport (COS), approximately 45 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Canon City. Denver International Airport (DEN) is another option, about 120 miles away. If you prefer traveling by train, Amtrak services are available to nearby Pueblo, and from there, you can take a bus or taxi to Canon City.

While in Canon City, the most convenient way to get around is by car. Car rental services are available, and having a car allows you to explore the scenic routes and nearby attractions at your own pace. Local taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer public transportation, the Royal Gorge Regional Transportation Authority operates a local bus service. Biking is another popular option, with several bike rental shops and trails available.

The official currency in Canon City, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller businesses or rural areas.

Canon City is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While Canon City does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Canon City has a local police department and medical facilities, including St. Thomas More Hospital, which provides emergency services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies are available in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities. Avoid overly formal attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Canon City is not particularly religious, it is polite to dress modestly when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to new flavors. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the United States.

To experience Canon City like a local, visit the Canon City Farmers Market, held weekly, where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, one of the main attractions offering stunning views. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, which provides scenic train tours through the gorge.