Planning a road trip from Colorado Springs to Pueblo this summer?
Colorado is known for its breathtaking landscapes and charming towns that attract millions of visitors every year.
And among all those beautiful destinations, Colorado Springs and Pueblo stand out, offering some of the best experiences one could have in the Centennial State.
Here is everything you need to know to plan this day trip.
Also Read: 25 Best Day Trips from Colorado Springs
Why Visit Pueblo?
Pueblo is a city situated in the southern part of Colorado, about a 45-minute drive from Colorado Springs.
The city is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, excellent food, and vibrant art scene.
From the steel mills that powered the city’s economy for years to the charming Riverwalk that offers a plethora of shops, restaurants, and events, Pueblo is a city full of surprises.
And if you’re a nature lover, you’ll be delighted with the city’s many parks and recreational areas.
Popular to visit is the Lake Pueblo State Park, which offers water sports, hiking trails, and campsites to visitors of all ages.
It is one of the best day trips from Colorado Springs.
Also Read: 13 Best Things to do in Pueblo, Colorado
Colorado Springs to Pueblo: Driving time and distance
Colorado Springs us the county seat of El Paso County while Pueblo is located south in Pueblo County.
The driving distance between Colorado Springs and Pueblo is approximately 45 miles.
It can be easily covered in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Both the cities are easily accessible to each other by road.
Best Route for the Colorado Springs to Pueblo drive
The best route to take is via I-25 S, which will take you through some of the most scenic landscapes in the state.
You will be able to enjoy the views of the Saquache Range, Pikes Peak, and other landmarks along the way.
The Colorado Springs Pueblo route is particularly beautiful during sunset.
Colorado Springs to Pueblo Road Trip: Essential Stops
As you hit the road, you’ll come across several essential stops that will make your day trip from Colorado Springs to Pueblo even more enjoyable.
Colorado Springs
If you’re flying into Colorado Springs airport, get a rental car for your road trip.
Start your journey in downtown Colorado Springs, a city that carries a unique charm.
Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, the city serves as a stepping stone to some of Colorado’s most notable landmarks.
For history buffs, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and the Old Colorado City historic district provide fascinating insights into the city’s past.
For an immersive experience with nature, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo provides an interactive and educational encounter with wildlife.
Don’t miss out on the Olympic Training Center, a testament to the city’s sports legacy.
Before hitting the road to Pueblo, ensure to grab a bite at the city’s many unique eateries that serve delicious food.
Optional: Garden of the Gods
Just a short detour from your main route, you’ll find Garden of the Gods.
This remarkable outdoor attraction is steeped in natural beauty, with fascinating geological formations that are millions of years old.
Known for its towering red rock structures against a backdrop of clear blue sky, Garden of the Gods presents an awe-inspiring landscape.
You can explore the park on foot through well-marked trails, or you may prefer to enjoy a scenic drive around its perimeter.
Don’t forget your camera – the enchanting scenes at the Garden of the Gods are worth capturing.
This location holds a significant cultural importance for Native American tribes, adding an extra layer of interest to your visit.
Be sure to stop by the visitor center for more insight on its geological and cultural history before you resume your journey to Pueblo.
Optional: Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, standing tall at 14,115 feet, is another highly recommended detour from your main route.
This iconic landmark is a significant part of Colorado’s cultural and natural heritage, and its breathtaking views are worth the short deviation.
You can reach the summit of Pikes Peak via the scenic Pikes Peak Highway, which provides stunning views as it winds its way up the mountain.
This 19-mile toll road is meticulously maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable drive.
Be prepared for some amazing photo opportunities as you ascend.
Alternatively, you may choose to experience the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
This railway, which has been in operation since 1891, provides a unique perspective on the beauty of the mountain.
As the world’s highest cog train, it is a remarkable engineering feat that will take you on a memorable journey to the summit.
Optional: Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is a charming town located close to Colorado Springs, CO.
This small mountain village offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, with the beauty of Pikes Peak looming in the background.
Take a leisurely stroll along its main street, which boasts plenty of shops and restaurants.
Be sure to check out Manitou’s mineral springs, which are said to offer healing properties.
These natural springs have been used by Native Americans for centuries, and a visit here will complete your day trip experience from Colorado Springs to Pueblo.
Manitou Cliff Dwellings and Manitou Incline are other popular attractions.
Fountain Creek Regional Park
Continue your Colorado Springs to Pueblo day trip with a stop at Fountain Creek Regional Park.
This park is the perfect place for picnics and outdoor activities, offering plenty of trails to explore on foot or bike.
The area around the park is also rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for some interesting birds and other animals.
The park is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, mountain biking, and kayaking.
Pikes Peak International Raceway
Another great stop for your Colorado Springs to Pueblo road trip is the Pikes Peak International Raceway.
This racetrack, which sits on over 800 acres of land, is a world-class facility that hosts various international racing events.
The track also offers an excellent spectator experience, allowing visitors to watch races from grandstands around the track.
The facility also hosts concerts and other entertainment events, making it a great stop for a day of fun activities.
Wigwam
Before you reach Pueblo, make a stop at Wigwam.
This small town is known for its quirky attractions, such as the World’s Largest Teepee and the Coronado Museum.
The historic downtown area is also worth exploring, with its unique shops and restaurants offering a taste of rural Colorado.
Pueblo
Finally, your road trip leads you to Pueblo, the final destination of your journey.
This vibrant city is a cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped its history.
Pueblo is famed for its food scene, particularly the Pueblo chile that is central to local cuisine.
The city is also a treasure trove of art, with several galleries and studios that exhibit a range of contemporary and traditional works.
Additionally, Pueblo’s steel-producing legacy is commemorated in the Steelworks Center of the West, an interesting stop for those curious about the city’s past.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the Pueblo Zoo, which houses a surprising variety of animal species.
The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk project is another highlight, providing a scenic stroll along the river with numerous dining and shopping spots.
As you wrap up your day trip, take a moment to soak in the charm and vibrancy of Pueblo, a city that refuses to be boxed into any one category.
Pueblo Memorial Airport is a great place to end the day trip if you’re flying out.
Pueblo to Colorado Springs Road Trip Guide
For those who’d like to make the return journey from Pueblo to Colorado Springs, here’s a brief guide on what to look out for on an alternate route.
Head back in the direction of Wigwam and take Highway 78 into Canon City, where you’ll find some interesting attractions.
The Royal Gorge Bridge is an iconic landmark that offers stunning views of the area.
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is also nearby, and is a great way to experience the scenery from a unique vantage point.
Continue driving on Highway 24 into Florence, where you can explore its rich history at the museum.
Next, drive towards Penrose and visit Bishop’s Castle, an incredible stone structure built by Jim Bishop.
The castle is one of the most impressive examples of self-built architecture in the country, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
Finally, make your way back to Colorado Springs, passing through some breathtaking sites such as Pike National Forest and Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
By following this guide, you’ll be sure to see some amazing sights on your way back from Pueblo to Colorado Springs. Enjoy the journey!
Best time for Colorado Springs to Pueblo Road trip
The best time to take the day trip from Colorado Springs to Pueblo is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and the days are long.
However, if you’re not a fan of crowds, you can also plan your trip during the shoulder season.
Spring shoulder lasts from April to May while the fall shoulder is from September to October.
During these months, the weather is still good, and the tourist traffic is relatively low.
Plan winter trips carefully, as the weather can get cold and the roads may be icy.
Pueblo and Colorado Springs flights
For those who don’t want to take a long drive from Colorado Springs to Pueblo, there are other options.
Both the cities have their own airport, so you can save time and energy by taking a flight.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves domestic flights from many major airlines while Pueblo Memorial Airport (PUB) is mainly used by private and charter planes.
If you’d like to take a flight, make sure to book your tickets in advance as the prices tend to be more expensive if purchased last-minute.
Moreover, compare different airlines to find the most suitable flight for your budget and schedule.
You can also take a bus on this route.
Buses also begin at Pueblo Transit and offer a variety of timings to Colorado Springs.
The bus fare is relatively cheaper than flights, but the journey time is usually longer.
Travel Tips for Colorado Springs to Pueblo Road Trip
- Always check the road conditions before you head out.
- Pack a few snacks and drinks for your journey, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
- Make sure you have enough fuel so you don’t run out of gas in the middle of your road trip.
- Bring a map or GPS device with you for navigation, just in case.
- Always stay alert while driving and obey all traffic rules.
- Keep enough cash handy, as some places may not accept cards or digital payments.
Also Read: Denver to Pueblo Road Trip Itinerary
Road Tripping from Colorado Springs to Pueblo, CO is a day trip you don’t want to miss!
With a little bit of planning and some safety tips, you can make the most out of your trip.
With its stunning mountain views, fascinating attractions, and amazing wildlife, Colorado Springs to Pueblo is an incredible destination for a road trip.
Whether you head directly from Colorado Springs to Pueblo, or take the alternate route via Canon City and Florence, you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey.
What are your favorite Pueblo attractions? Let us know below.