Museum of Colorado Prisons

Located in Cañon City, the Museum of Colorado Prisons offers a unique look into the state’s correctional history. Housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1935 as a women’s correctional facility, the museum provides an immersive look at the evolution of incarceration in Colorado. The site is situated directly east of the active Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility, creating a striking contrast between the historic and modern penal systems.

Visitors are guided through the facility by individual audio tours, which provide a detailed and dramatic presentation of the past. The building itself, a structure that has stood since 1935, is divided into distinct sections that highlight different aspects of prison life. The upper floor features 30 inmate cells, a hallway, and office space, offering a glimpse into the living conditions of the past. The lower level houses a dining room, kitchen, laundry room, and archival storage, providing further insight into the daily routines of both inmates and guards.

The museum also highlights specific historical events, such as the major prison riots of 1929 and 1947, and shares stories of notable inmates like Alfred Packer and Antone Woode. Established on June 18, 1988, by a non-profit foundation, the museum preserves the legacy of Colorado’s penal system. It serves as an educational resource for tourists exploring the Royal Gorge Region, detailing working conditions, punishments, and the daily lives of those who lived and worked within these walls. This attraction is a significant stop for anyone interested in the cultural and historical context of justice in the American West.