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Florence

Florence has all the charm and close-knit feel of small-town America - where everyone is your neighbor!

Located on the eastern range of the Rocky Mountains along the tumbling white waters of the Arkansas River, Florence visitors enjoy endless views and big adventure. The community marks the start of the historic Gold Belt Scenic Byway, a drive that follows old stagecoach and railroad routes while passing world-renowned fossil sites and historic mining towns, including Cripple Creek, one of the nation's greatest gold camps. Florence's unique location provides mild winters, allows for numerous agricultural pursuits and gives the town unique river and mountainside parks.

Shop 'till you Drop!

Hailed as the antiquing capital of Colorado, Florence's is an antique lover’s paradise. The town features more than a dozen antique shops and co-ops and has become a favorite weekend destination for many Colorado residents and out-of-state visitors looking to go treasure hunting. You’ll find plenty of dining here as well. Everything from hearty down-home breakfasts, bakeries, and hand-tossed pizzas to fine dining, authentic Mexican restaurants, and unique, inviting venues perfect for that special occasion. Florence is also home to several art galleries and working artists studios, where you can watch potters work their potter’s wheels and painters create on fresh canvases. Just west of town hangs the country's highest suspension bridge, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park as well as the town of Cañon City.

An Outdoor Wonderland

There are endless outdoor activities in Florence including rafting or fishing along the Arkansas River, hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing and mountain biking on rugged dirt roads. Four-wheeling is popular on Independence Trail, Shelf Road, Phantom Canyon Road and Skyline Drive between Florence and Colorado Springs.

Sign up for guided llama trekking and overnight camping trips in the surrounding mountain areas. For an all-natural adventure, bring your birthday suit to the nearby Desert Reef Hot Spring.

History of Florence

Named after the daughter of the City's founder, Florence is known as the first place oil was discovered West of the Mississippi River and it has a rich history with numerous immigrant groups. Florence was home to three railroads and a small depot, providing a commercial hub for coal and oil mining activities located in the area.

The remnants of this 1800's commercial boom are preserved in the charmingly historic downtown now full of antique and retail stores, as well as an emerging culinary district. Florence has a strong sense of community and numerous groups like the Senior Community Center, Rotary, Elks, Chamber of Commerce and Eagles run events throughout the year. Two of the towns most popular events are the huge Fourth of July Festival- complete with a wet-dry parade- and the Pioneer Day celebration in Mid-September.

Find information on things to do in Florence, where to shop, dining, lodging and more