Museum of Colorado Prisons: Doing Time with History
Explore Colorado's prison history in a former women's correctional facility. Artifacts, exhibits, and stories await in Canon City.
Housed in a former women's prison dating back to 1935, the Museum of Colorado Prisons in Cañon City offers a chilling glimpse into the state's penal system. Explore exhibits within the original cell house, showcasing artifacts, stories, and the harsh realities of incarceration.
A brief summary to Museum of Colorado Prisons
- 201 N 1st St, Cañon City, Colorado, 81212, US
- +1719-269-3015
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Consider watching the 1949 film "Canon City" before your visit to provide context for the museum's setting and history.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and artifacts.
- Check out the gift shop for unique, prison-themed souvenirs and inmate-crafted items.
- The museum has accessible entrances and parking in the back.
Getting There
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Walking
The Museum of Colorado Prisons is located at 201 N 1st St in Canon City. From most points in downtown Canon City, the museum is easily accessible by foot. From the Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center, walk north on 1st Street for approximately 0.2 miles. The museum will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Cañon City Transit may offer transportation options within the city. Check the availability and schedules for routes that stop near the museum on 1st Street. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25 - $2.00.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Cañon City. From a location like the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, a taxi ride to the museum would be approximately 5-10 minutes, costing an estimated $7 - $12, depending on the service and demand.
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Driving
The Museum of Colorado Prisons is located at 201 N 1st St, Cañon City, CO 81212. Limited free parking is available in front of the museum, with additional parking in the back. From Highway 50, turn north onto 1st Street. The museum will be on your left. Parking is free.
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