Located in the southern part of Colorado on the banks of the Arkansas River, you will find Pueblo – a city rich in history and natural beauty.
Founded in 1842 as a trading post, Pueblo was once home to various Native American tribes before becoming a hub for pioneers and settlers during the Colorado Gold Rush era.
Today, visitors can explore the city’s fascinating history at the Pueblo Heritage Museum and the El Pueblo History Museum.
However, Pueblo’s attractions don’t stop there.
Adventure lovers can hit the Arkansas River for kayaking or fishing, while foodies can try the city’s famous green chili.
Pueblo can be easily reached from Denver or Colorado Springs, making it quite popular.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Pueblo, Colorado.
Also Read: Denver to Pueblo Road Trip
Best Things to do in Pueblo, Colorado
Pueblo, CO has plenty of intriguing history and character for even the most jaded travelers.
The city’s rich past is best explored its many museums and cultural sites.
Spend the evening at the Pueblo Riverwalk, an outdoor space in the center of downtown.
Pueblo is also a cultural hub and has many art galleries and shows.
Here are the best things to do in Pueblo, Colorado.
Explore the Union Avenue Historic District
The Union Avenue Historic District in Pueblo is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
This district, located in the heart of the city, is steeped in history.
It was once the bustling commercial hub during the late 19th and early 20th centuries and served as the city’s main business sector.
Today, it stands as a testament to Pueblo’s past, with its beautifully preserved brick buildings, antique shops, and charming boutiques.
The district is also home to a diverse array of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, including Pueblo’s famous green chili.
For art lovers, the streets of Union Avenue are a treasure trove of local art exhibits and galleries, featuring works from local and regional artists.
Visiting Union Avenue Historic District offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Pueblo’s past…
…while still experiencing the vibrant culture of the present.
Its blend of history, architecture, dining, and art makes it an unmissable stop on any Pueblo itinerary.
Take a walk along the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk
One of the best things to do when you visit Pueblo is to take a stroll along the historic Arkansas Riverwalk.
The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo, often shortened to HARP, is a vibrant urban waterfront.
It boasts of a beautiful walking trail, boat rides, and numerous events throughout the year.
This man-made riverwalk was designed to commemorate the original flow of the Arkansas River that once ran through the city.
As you wander along the scenic walkway, you will encounter lush landscapes, public art exhibits, and several restaurants and shops that line the river’s edge.
The Pueblo River Walk also serves as a venue for numerous community events including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
It is the perfect spot to people watch, enjoy the sun, or take a boat ride.
Try the famous Pueblo chile
A trip to Pueblo would be incomplete without tasting the city’s famous Pueblo chile.
The Pueblo chile, a variety of the green chili pepper, has a robust history in the region.
Introduced to Colorado by Dr. Michael Bartolo, a Colorado State University professor, the Pueblo chile is now a staple of the local cuisine.
The pepper’s distinctive heat and complex flavor profile – a perfect blend of sweetness, crispness, and smokiness – has earned it national recognition and a fierce rivalry with New Mexico’s Hatch chile.
Pueblo chiles are most well-known for their central role in the annual Chile & Frijoles Festival, a three-day event celebrating the harvest of the Pueblo chile.
The festival showcases the chile in all its glory, from roasting demonstrations to chile-inspired cuisine.
When it comes to tasting this culinary delight, there are several locally beloved spots in Pueblo.
One such place is Gray’s Coors Tavern, an unassuming bar that serves a chile cheeseburger called the ‘Slopper’ that’s drenched in Pueblo chile green sauce.
Another notable spot is the Pass Key Restaurant, known for its Italian Sausage Sandwich smothered with Pueblo chile.
Be sure to savor the flavor on your trip!
See the exhibits at the El Pueblo History Museum
Immerse yourself in the deep-rooted history of Pueblo at the El Pueblo History Museum.
This museum, located near the original site of the El Pueblo trading post, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, from the life of the early Native Americans to the impact of the Colorado Gold Rush.
Here, you can explore a range of exhibits that tell the story of Pueblo’s rich multicultural history.
One of the museum’s highlights is the archaeological excavation site of the original 1842 trading post, offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of the pioneers.
The museum also hosts a variety of educational programs, lectures, and workshops throughout the year.
The El Pueblo History Museum is more than a museum; it’s a journey back in time and an essential visit for anyone interested in understanding Pueblo’s diverse heritage.
Have a fun family day at the Pueblo Zoo
The Pueblo Zoo, located in City Park, is a fun place to visit for families.
The zoo is home to over 200 species, including big cats, giraffes, and elephants.
It also boasts of a petting zoo where children can get up close and personal with animals like goats and llamas.
The Pueblo Zoo also has several interactive attractions such as an aquarium, reptile house, and a carousel ride.
Apart from the animals, the zoo also has several eateries and souvenir shops that are sure to make your visit even more enjoyable.
The Pueblo Zoo is an ideal spot for visitors of all ages to learn about nature while having fun.
Take the kids to Buell Children’s Museum
Regarded as one of the top children’s museums in the state, the Buell Children’s Museum in Pueblo offers a fun-filled venue for interactive learning.
The museum’s exhibits are designed to stimulate creativity and curiosity, covering a wide variety of subjects such as art, science, and history.
The museum is well-known for its Art Studio, where children can engage in hands-on art projects.
The El Pomar Magic Carpet Theater is a unique performance space where kids can explore the world of drama.
A visit to the Buell Children’s Museum not only provides an entertaining day out but also encourages children to learn through play.
It is one of the best things to do in Pueblo for families.
See the airplanes at Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum
Located on the grounds of the Pueblo Memorial Airport, the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.
This museum houses an extensive collection of military aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia, showcasing the evolution of flight and the role of aviation in warfare.
Here, visitors can marvel at a variety of exhibits including World War II bombers, Cold War-era jets, and a range of military vehicles.
Notable highlights include a fully restored B-29 Superfortress, a P-47 Thunderbolt, and the F-14 Tomcat, made famous by the movie “Top Gun”.
Additionally, the museum offers a unique opportunity to witness the restoration of historic aircraft in-progress in the Restoration Hangar.
Guided tours are available, providing a wealth of information about each aircraft and the stories they hold.
Visit the Historic Rosemount Museum
Step back in time with a visit to the remarkable Rosemount Museum.
This historic mansion, built in 1893, stands as a testament to Victorian-era affluence and elegance.
Built by Pueblo’s prominent businessman, John A. Thatcher, Rosemount was considered one of the most luxurious homes west of the Mississippi River.
The mansion is a masterpiece of architectural design, boasting 37 splendidly furnished rooms filled with original family possessions including European and American antiques, artworks, and personal memorabilia.
The museum gives a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Thatcher family and their servants at the turn of the 20th century.
The Rosemount Museum also offers guided tours that delve into the history of the building, the family, and the city of Pueblo itself.
The carefully preserved period interiors provide a vivid portrayal of the opulent Victorian and Edwardian eras.
Step back in time at Pueblo Heritage Museum
The Pueblo Heritage Museum is another must-visit destination for history buffs visiting Pueblo.
This museum is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and interpreting the history of southeastern Colorado.
Housed in a historic 1924 Denver & Rio Grande Western Freight Depot, the museum features exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures and significant events that have shaped Pueblo and the surrounding areas.
Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to memorabilia reflecting the area’s rich agricultural and industrial history.
Additionally, the museum is home to several local heritage organizations, making it a hub for historical research and discovery.
Notable exhibits include a detailed model railroad display and a collection of vintage vehicles.
The Pueblo Heritage Museum is a testament to Pueblo’s proud past and vibrant community.
Discover the city’s rich railroad legacy at Pueblo Railway Museum
Enrich your understanding of Pueblo’s past at the Pueblo Railway Museum.
This museum is an absolute treat for both history aficionados and railway enthusiasts.
Located in downtown Pueblo, the museum is part of the Pueblo Railway Foundation and managed by the Pueblo Locomotive and Rail Historical Society.
The museum boasts a remarkable collection of vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses, each telling a unique story of the railway’s contribution to the region’s history.
Notable exhibits include a grand Union Pacific ‘Big Boy’, which is one of the world’s largest steam locomotives, and a fully-restored Denver & Rio Grande Western Caboose.
The museum also offers caboose ride experiences and hosts several special events throughout the year, including the popular ‘Thomas the Tank Engine’ days.
Learn about Pueblo’s past at Steelworks Center of the West
Steelworks Center of the West or simply the Steelworks Museum narrates the story of Pueblo’s industrial past.
It is situated in an area that was once the bustling heart of the Pueblo’s industrial sector.
The Steelworks Center of the West is a fascinating exhibit that traces the city’s steel-making past.
The museum is located on the former site of the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I).
This was once the largest employer in the region and a significant driving force behind the city’s growth.
The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that chronicle the history of the mining and steel industry in Colorado and the West.
Visitors can explore exhibits that depict the life of the workers, the evolution of mining and smelting technologies, and the wide-reaching impacts of the industry on the region’s economic and social fabric.
The exhibits offer a compelling glimpse into Pueblo’s industrial heritage and its role in shaping the city we see today.
Spend a day at Lake Pueblo State Park
Lake Pueblo State Park is a perfect day trip from the city.
It offers a wonderful blend of outdoor recreation and breathtaking scenery.
The park has over 4,500 acres of water surface, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
Here, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, windsurfing, and jet-skiing.
The surrounding land, with its 60 miles of shoreline and numerous picnic areas, is perfect for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and camping.
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
Remember, it’s not just a summer escape – with its mild winter weather, the park offers year-round outdoor fun.
Enjoy hiking in San Isabel National Forest
The breathtaking San Isabel National Forest is one of Pueblo’s most popular outdoor attractions.
This vast wilderness area encompasses over 1 million acres, and is home to countless natural wonders including towering mountains peaks, lush meadows, and craggy canyons.
For hikers in search of adventure, the forest offers plenty of trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Popular trails include the Lake Como Loop Trail, which offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The Cascade Creek Trail for a more demanding trek with beautiful alpine scenery.
San Isabel National Forest is also an ideal spot for camping, birdwatching, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Have fun at the Colorado State Fair
Pueblo is so much more beyond historic buildings and rich history.
It is home to the Colorado State Fair, one of the most fun things to do in the Centennial State.
Held every summer, this event celebrates the best of Colorado’s rural heritage with carnival rides, amazing concerts, livestock auctions, and competitions like rodeos and cooking contests.
The fairgrounds are packed with attractions such as a petting zoo, educational exhibits, and live entertainment.
Foodies can savor some of Pueblo’s best eats, from classic carnival fare to delicious specialty dishes.
The Colorado State Fair is an exciting event that brings out the state’s unique spirit and charm.
Pueblo’s location along the Arkansas River made it a prime spot for Native American tribes to settle and then later for Spanish settlers to establish a trading post.
Today it has become the perfect uncrowded vacation destination for the next generation of explorers: travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, and vacationers.
It is a perfect weekend away or even a day trip destination in the Colorado Springs region.
What are your favorite things to do in Pueblo, Colorado? Let us know below.