About Florence, Colorado
Nestled in the Arkansas River Valley in Fremont County, Colorado, Florence is a living piece of Western history — a Victorian-era mining and oil town that has transformed into one of the country's most remarkable antique destinations.
The Antique Capital of Colorado
Florence earned its title as the “Antique Capital of Colorado” through decades of growth in its Main Street antique trade. What began as a handful of shops selling old frontier goods has grown into a destination with over 100 antique dealers spread across historic storefronts along Main Street and the surrounding blocks.
The town's remarkably intact Victorian commercial architecture — much of it dating to the 1880s and 1890s — provides an authentic backdrop for one of Colorado's most immersive antiquing experiences. Walking Florence's Main Street is itself a journey through history.
Colorado's First Oil Town
Florence holds a remarkable place in American history: it was the site of Colorado's first commercial oil well, drilled in 1862 — and one of the earliest oil discoveries west of the Mississippi River. The Florence oil fields were actively producing petroleum decades before the famous Texas oil boom. Today, the historic oil derrick on Main Street stands as a monument to the town's industrial past.
Beyond antiques and history, Florence serves as a perfect base for exploring the Royal Gorge region. The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is just 15 minutes away, the Arkansas River runs nearby (world-class rafting and Gold Medal fly fishing), and the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway loops through the mountains to Cripple Creek and beyond.
Quick Facts
Getting to Florence
Florence address: Florence, CO 81226 · Fremont County
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