Discover Colorado’s history of justice and punishment at the Museum of Colorado Prisons in Cañon. This guided tour reveals over 150 years of penal history through captivating exhibits and stories. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers, it’s a unique cultural highlight on any Colorado trip.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous activity involved
Wildlife
History
Colorado’s prison system has evolved significantly since the 19th century, reflecting broader social changes in justice and corrections.
Conservation
The museum encourages sustainable tourism practices, including responsible photography and respecting exhibit guidelines.
Museum of Colorado Prisons
Discover Colorado’s history of justice and punishment at the Museum of Colorado Prisons in Cañon. This guided tour reveals over 150 years of penal history through captivating exhibits and stories. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers, it’s a unique cultural highlight on any Colorado trip.
Founded to preserve and present Colorado’s correctional history, the Museum of Colorado Prisons in Cañon City presents more than 150 years of penal history through artifacts, exhibits, and programs. The museum interprets the evolution of the Colorado prison system from its early territorial era to modern corrections, documenting changes in law, architecture, daily life, and notable events.
Visitors can choose guided tours led by knowledgeable docents, general admission for self-paced exploration, or special events such as the Day of the Dead Cemetery Crawl at Woodpecker Hill. Exhibits number more than thirty and include photographs, inmate records, tools, uniforms, and interpretive displays that support historical research and education.
The Museum of Colorado Prisons is open to the public and welcomes students, historians, and travelers seeking a factual, reflective look at punishment and rehabilitation in Colorado. Programs emphasize documented history and encourage respectful engagement with sensitive subjects, including inmate stories and burial records.
On guided tours, staff and volunteers provide context that connects artifacts to broader social and legal histories. General admission allows visitors to move at their own pace and discover exhibits covering the period from 1871 to the present. Seasonal events such as the cemetery crawl offer deeper engagement with the site’s human stories while asking guests to honor those interred.
The museum maintains a commitment to education, preservation, and responsible interpretation, supporting both casual visitors and serious researchers with accurate materials and curated exhibits. On-site staff provide directions, research assistance, and information about scheduling tours and special events year-round.
Location
Cañon City, CO
Located in Cañon City, Colorado
Open Year-Round
Year-round
General Admission offered year-round
Exhibits
30+ Exhibits
Explores 150 years of history
Unique Tours
Guided & Special
Includes cemetery crawl experience
Book a guided tour, purchase general admission, or reserve a spot for the Day of the Dead Cemetery Crawl in Cañon City.
Plan for extra time
Allow at least an hour to fully explore and absorb the exhibits during your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes
The museum involves walking through various exhibits, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a camera
Capture the historic building and interesting displays—photography is often permitted.
Check the schedule
Verify tour times in advance, as guided tours are scheduled throughout the day.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for comfortable navigation through the exhibits and building.
Warm clothing
Layered clothing helps stay comfortable during exposure to cooler temperatures.
winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic artifacts and architecture during your tour.
Notebook and pen
Great for taking notes or jotting down impressions during the visit.