21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Pueblo (Colorado)

Pueblo, Colorado is sometimes known as the “Home of Heroes,” is one of the most underestimated tourist destinations in the state because of its rich history of steel mills and smelting facilities.

In addition, it has played host to some of the most infamous characters of the Old West, like Buffalo Bill Cody and even Wild Bill Hickok.

The city sits on the banks of the Arkansas River and the beauty is enhanced by magnificent historical monuments, impressive retail malls, and restaurants.

Explore unique historical places and spend the day at a state park performing outdoor activities.

You can also visit a zoo to see wildlife, stroll along a beautiful Riverwalk, and so much more.

Above all, let’s make your next vacation pleasurable and memorable.

We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Pueblo, Colorado.

Things To Do In Pueblo

1. Steelworks Museum

Pueblo, Colorado, is home to the Steelworks Museum. The museum is housed in the Minnequa Steel Works Office Building and the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company Dispensary.

The museum tells the narrative of the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company.

It was founded in 1872 and is credited with being the first steel mill west of the Mississippi River.

The exhibits are very informative and nicely done.

It talked about everything and anything that was related to the steel industry in the area, including their interactions with the town.

If you like statistics, they even have some breakdowns of their workers’ costs and nationality, which is fascinating.

The displays are scattered about the old CF&I Medical Dispensary building.

You can even request they play one of their many movies about the subject. All you have to do is ask at the front and see what title(s) you would like to watch.

You may learn all about the importance of this sector in the area and take a trip back in time by looking at old images and memorabilia.

The museum also has the original old turn-styles out in the parking lot where the steelworkers would go through to go under the street to get to work.

They also have an old railroad car outside the back of the building with a display in it.

Workers’ kids play on one of the restored old playground equipment.

There’s also a tiny gift shop with several books on steel factories, steelmakers, etc.

Address: 215 Canal St, Pueblo, CO 81004, USA

2. Lake Pueblo State Park

Lake pueblo state park (also known as Pueblo Reservoir) is a “hot area” for fishing, with about 4,600 acres of surface water.

The lake has a maximum depth of 135 feet (41 m) with 60 miles of coastline and nearly 10,000 acres of land for boating, camping, animal viewing, and just plain relaxing.

Sailing, motorboating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, river tubing, and premier fishing are just a few of the water sports available in Lake Pueblo.

Many tourists claim that one day is never enough, thanks to the sunny days and pleasant year-round temperature.

Thus, the park’s campground may be a welcome amenity if you plan on staying longer.

The sites are large and well-spaced, allowing for some privacy. During the winter, Loop A’s restrooms/free showers are the only ones open. You can tent at Loop B for the lake view.

It can get windy at Lake Pueblo, so make sure you firmly secure your awnings and canopies.

This place has something for everyone. You are welcome to bring your boat.

For $20, you may hire a kayak or paddleboard (but make a reservation ahead of time because they sell out quickly!).

Similarly, Dogs are also welcome on all the park’s hiking routes.

The park also has a lot of vegetation and fauna, so wildlife spotting and bird watching are popular activities.

Address: 640 Pueblo Reservoir Road, Pueblo, CO 81005, USA

3. Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a 2.1-kilometer heavily traveled circular path with a river that is suitable for all skill levels. It is located in the heart of the historic downtown, only two hours south of Denver and 45 minutes south of Colorado Springs.

Even though walking is the primary mode of transportation on the trail, this trail is also open to dogs, but you must keep them on a leash.

It is sprinkled with little gems throughout the path, such as shops and a brewery. A memorial and a natural space complete with a waterfall and tree-covered area are also available to take it all in!

This walking path is ever-growing and never ceases to bring joy and relaxation!

This is also where tons of events are held for the public, so make sure to check the paper or look online to see if you are one of the lucky ones to experience both!

You can consider the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo the gem of Pueblo while seeking a distinctive setting for your next event.

Whether it’s a wedding, family reunion, retreat, birthday party, or company picnic, a 32-acre waterfront site with a one-of-a-kind backdrop is provided.

Address: 101 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

4. Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center

The Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center, a multiple category winner at the Best of Pueblo awards, is a cultural institution in Pueblo, Colorado.

The museum comprises art galleries, performing arts, dancing arts, etc.

The Arts Center brings out the best in others through high-quality art exhibitions, performing arts, dancing arts, an award-winning children’s museum, comprehensive arts educational programming.

Both the Children’s and Adult museums are lovely and affordable, informative, educational, and fun!

The exhibits and artwork are breathtaking, and there are tons of fun crafts and activities in the Children’s museum.

The staff are amiable, knowledgeable, and welcoming!

One visit is all it takes to realize how unique and special the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center is.

The Art Center is complemented by the Pueblo Levee Mural, which is a more non-traditional venue for artistic expression.

Another notable exhibit is the second-floor photographs of the flood in Pueblo. Incredible pictures of a devastating event in Pueblo’s history.

You will be amazed to see those photos and then walk along Main Street and see the buildings that were affected by the flood 100 years ago.

The three-building complex provides tourists with a unique taste of Southern Colorado’s arts and is a must-see for everyone visiting Pueblo.

Address: 210 N Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, USA

Planning on visiting other parts of Colorado? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Breckenridge, Durango, Canon City, and Thornton!

5. Hopscotch Bakery

Hopscotch Bakery, which opened in 2005, specializes in hand-crafted delicacies and unique spins on classics.

It is without a doubt the best bakery in the area. The baked goods are always fresh, and every bite is delicious.

The quality of the ingredients is of a superior product, and the consistency is always spot-on perfect, from the desserts to sandwiches to homemade granola.

The chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, lemon bars, and so forth, are all delicious! And the bread, cakes, pies? They are all delicious. They also serve deliciously blended salads.

Something of note is you won’t be able to eat there because you order at the counter and walk out the door.

Take a stroll down the Riverwalk and locate a location to relax and enjoy your new acquisition. You will not be sorry!

It is a real treat to see a local business acting responsibly and bringing the best to Pueblo, and for those looking for a savory pleasure, then look no further. This is the right place.

Address: 802 W John St, Champaign, IL 61820, USA

6. Pike-San Isabel National Forest

Isabel National Forest is located in central Colorado. The forest contains 19 of the state’s 53 fourteeners, peaks over 14,000 feet high.

The Pike National Forest offers sightseeing, hiking, lake fishing, boating, picnicking, and cross-country skiing at the 500-acre Rampart Reservoir.

The forest is beautiful, and there are many exciting locations to visit.

The lakefront is the most popular area for visitors. Picnic tables are available, or you can eat at the lodge.

There is plenty of parking and delicious meals. Clothing, food, and souvenirs can all be purchased at the gift shop. Paddle boats can be rented throughout the warmer months. The fishing is available all year.

There are some lovely trails and picnic areas. You can also camp here. It can get a little busy by the lake in the summer, but hiking elsewhere in the park is always enjoyable.

There is wildlife as well. Ice fishing and sledding are popular winter activities.

We recommend you wear swim shoes and sunscreen.

Several areas of the grasslands are open for various recreational uses.

You can go hiking, mountain biking, educational activities, viewing historic sites, scenic driving, horseback riding. Picnicking is also among the recreation opportunities you will enjoy in the region.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your camping supplies and a trekking companion because the San Isabel National Forest is ready to welcome you.

Address: Sedalia, CO 80135, United States

7. The whitewater Park

The Whitewater Park is in the heart of Pueblo between Union Ave. and the West 4th Street Bridge. It is within walking distance of shops and restaurants in the Historic Downtown District.

The park is about 1/2 mile long and contains eight dips.

If you want to have a closer look at the Arkansas River than merely walking alongside it, visit the Whitewater Park, which allows you to get wet and have a good time.

Kayaking in the river, body boarding, and even surfing are some activities available. Takeout is available on Union Avenue, on the south side of the Main Street Bridge; there is also a parking lot on the left.

Parking on Corona Street and walking down to the river is another option. This is not an amusement park but an actual river.

The park, which is half a mile long, is notable for its drops into the lake. Each drop is essentially a man-made barrier from which you may safely descend into the river, making it ideal for beginners.

8. El Pueblo History Museum

The El Pueblo History Museum is a must-see for history aficionados and culture lovers alike, showcasing the city’s history as well as the region’s many cultures and nationalities.

The Borderlands of Southern Colorado and the award-winning Children of Ludlow display at the History Museum highlight the region’s numerous cultural and ethnic groupings.

It is a beautiful and extremely educational exhibit about Pueblo.

A re-created adobe trading post and plaza from the 1840s is one of the top attractions. Also, the archaeological excavation site of the real 1842 trade post is among the museum’s most popular attractions.

You will find this local historical museum to be very comprehensive in terms of information about the community’s past as well as extremely interesting exhibits on the Chicano movement’s involvement in the civil and labor rights movements, as well as opposition to the Vietnam War right here in Pueblo, for a town of Pueblo’s size.

People whose relatives and friends have been involved in organized labor will find the Ludlow Massacre display both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Children (and adults) are encouraged to touch or step inside for a fantastically realistic depiction of life in the area. There is also not a lot of walking.

Address: 301 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, USA

9. The Mesa Drive-In

The Mesa Drive-In is the largest drive-in movie theater in Colorado. It is located in Pueblo, Colorado, and provides two films for the price of one, as well as three screens, a concession stand, and plenty of parking.

This is one of the handful remaining, and it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy an old-fashioned movie experience.

Guests are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis to this 1950s-style outdoor cinema. With three screens, each showing a separate double feature, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

The drive-in shows are broadcast on an FM radio station. To hear it, you’ll need a functional radio in your automobile.

Lawn chairs are acceptable, however, you must be kept within the confines of your car. Outside, food and drinks are permitted.

A couple of things to keep in mind: everything is cash-only, and the nearest ATM is at a neighboring gas station, so come with cash.

If you’re intending on ordering a large amount of food, you may do so ahead of time on their website, which we recommend preventing long lines at the snack bar.

Seeing a movie at a drive-in theater is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Address: 2625 Santa Fe Dr, Pueblo, CO 81006, United States

10. Pueblo Zoo

Pueblo Zoo is a zoo in Pueblo that is 25 acres (10.1 ha) in size. The zoo is open all year and houses approximately 420 animals, representing over 140 different species.

Nice and flat, wide-open grassy areas, and nice wide walkways that are great for wheelchairs. Beautiful grounds, great for parties, especially in the fall when the trees turn.

This is an excellent area to take younger children who don’t want to spend the entire day mingling with zebras, small mammals, a wide variety of birds, and grassy spaces between exhibits. There are many trees to provide shade, and in the summer, there are rides for younger guests.

The animal exhibits are so up close and personal and the price is just right.

There are also a variety of entertaining activities to take part in, such as otter feedings and Keeper Talk events such as Lion Keeper Talk, Mystery Keeper Talk, and African Painted Dogs Keeper Talk.

There are also many interesting goods in the gift shop, so keep an eye out!.

Address: 3455 Nuckolls Ave, Pueblo, CO 81005, USA

11. The Buell Children’s Museum

The Buell Children’s Museum is located in Pueblo, Colorado, inside the award-winning Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center. You will find interactive displays designed to educate children and adults about art, history, and science inside the Children’s Museum.

Innovative designs, hands-on exhibits, and plenty of open space make it easy for youngsters and kids-at-heart to explore adventure and make discoveries. This is the ideal family-friendly location.

This is a fantastic destination for people of all ages. Themes and exhibits change, but they are always charming, well-planned, and educational.

The Rube Gold bergesque ball machine in the front area is the best feature of the entire exhibit. That device could keep you entertained for hours.

Address: 210 N Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

12. Mauro Farms and Bakery

Mauro Farm and Bakery is a family-owned and runs farm and bakery located just 25 minutes east of Pueblo! They make their baked goods on-site with ingredients grown on their farm or purchased locally from Colorado farms.

Although Mauro Farms Bakery first opened its doors in 1981, the family-owned business has been baking since 1963

They have an extensive selection of preserves, fruits, beans, other unusually imported things that look fascinating to try.

Italian cookies, biscotti, sweetbread, and candies are among Mauro Farms Bakery’s most popular items. Their Potica, a thinly wrapped gourmet sweet bread with varied fillings, is without a doubt their greatest seller.

Their pies and potica are a must-taste.

Don’t forget to purchase some of their delicious coffee beans to go with your sweets.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you may order online, and they also offer FedEx when shopping in-store if you want to send some delicacies to friends and family.

It is open 8 am-6 pm on weekdays to Saturday and 8 am-5 am on Sunday.

Address: 936 36th Ln, Pueblo, CO 81006, USA

13. Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum (PWAM) is a must-see destination conveniently located near Pueblo Memorial Airport.

The Aircraft Museum is housed in a historic Second World War Army facility that dates back to 1943.

Visit one of Colorado’s most extensive collections of military, space, and civilian aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts, which span over a century of history.

Civilian and military aircraft, ground vehicles, missiles, and the Southern Colorado Space Museum are among the exhibits.

This magnificent museum presently houses over 30 antique planes and is a must-see for anybody interested in learning about the history of flight in the area.

The museum also pays tribute to World War II veterans, and those who passed away in the conflict. A massive B-29 bomber is another one of the sights to see here.

You will get filled in here if you are interested in military planes and equipment.

What a great place!

The B-29 is the star attraction, but there is so much more. Planes range from an F15 to trainers and helicopters.

The equipment displays are extensive and well done. They range from trucks to NASA electronics to firearms to uniforms and include foreign items as well.

What a fabulous treat this museum is!! An amazing collection of aircraft and memorabilia.

Address: 31001 Magnuson Ave, Pueblo, CO 81001, United States

14. Steel City Theatre

One of the best places to see a show in Pueblo is the Steel City Theatre.

Musicals and Broadway shows, as well as concerts and musical performances, are all covered by the firm. Before you go, look over the listings so you know what to expect.

Steel City Theatre, one of Pueblo’s last remaining Dinner Theatres, offers plenty of live theatres in which you may enjoy not just a live play but also a delicious dinner.

Great food, great drinks, outstanding performers with a mix of high schoolers and adults.

In addition, Steel City Theatre has a cash bar in the lobby that you can take to your seat in the theatre.

The theatre also provides classes and workshops for anyone interested in learning more, whether they are a seasoned professional looking to advance their skills or a newcomer looking to broaden their horizons.

If you’re in the Pueblo region, Steel City is located in the downtown sector, near to the Riverwalk, and offers amazing entertainment, cuisine, and drinks. You can see the schedule of shows on their website.

This theatre is one of the best not-so-hidden secrets in Pueblo!.

Address: 241 S Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, USA

15. Rosemount Museum

The grandeur of a bygone period awaits you at Rosemount, a Victorian mansion museum erected in 1893 by wealthy businessman John A. Thatcher.

The New York architect Henry Hudson Holly designed the 24,000-square-foot-home.

Almost all the home’s furnishings, accessories, decorative arts, paintings, handcrafted woodwork, and wall and window treatments are unique.

Guests learn about the house, the family, Victorian culture, and early Pueblo history on guided tours that last an hour to an hour and a half.

You will get a self-guided tour when there are special events and during the last two weeks of the holiday season.

You might get lucky and find yourself in Pueblo during one of these events.

Most of these exciting activities are open to the public and are free to attend.

You can tour this place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

Address: 419 W 14th St, Pueblo, CO 81003, USA

16. FishHead Outdoors

Colorado is well-known for having some of the most exciting fishing opportunities in the country. In fact, Colorado is home to a variety of beautiful fish, including walleye, pike, bass, kokanee salmon, and more, which have enticed passionate fishers to Lake Pueblo hoping to land their biggest catch.

Beginners and seasoned fishers alike can experience the adrenaline rush of struggling with large fish on many rods at the same time on Fish Head Outdoors’ sports fishing outings in and around the Colorado Lakes.

And the best part? You can tailor trips to your preference. Choose your adventure when you’re out on the open water.

The skilled instructors who will join you on your fishing adventure may also teach beginners a thing or two.

Nice place to escape to and try your hand at fishing, good for beginners & experts! Friendly people in the area to talk with.

17. Songbird Cellar

If you are looking for a spot for evening entertainment, look no further. The songbird cellar is just the perfect spot.

For live shows, this historic venue is intimate, the acoustics are ideal. The service is stellar, and the food is a great value.

The venue serves as a musical event space as well as a tasting room.

The handcrafted fruit wines and house blends are a hit. It allows visitors to sip on award-winning tipples while watching a show.

The place to go for live music in Pueblo County and beyond.

18. Union Avenue Historic District

The Union Avenue Historic District in Pueblo, Colorado, is a century-old business district.

You would find that the district comprises a collection of commercial buildings south of Pueblo’s core business center.

70 of the 87 properties contribute to the district’s historic and architectural significance. The Union Depot, Vail Hotel, and Quaker Flour Mill are among the contributing properties.

Following the platting of South Pueblo in 1872, the neighborhood grew swiftly, with the first brick buildings arriving in the early 1880s. Union Avenue, which was once a wholesale and warehouse sector, is affiliated with the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad.

The Arkansas River flooded the district in June 1921. The devastating floods of 1921 wreaked havoc on the city.

Following the disaster, the levees were rebuilt to prevent future disasters.

The classical red sandstone architecture prominent in the 1880s has been kept and refurbished.

Additionally, Union Avenue hosts a variety of entertaining events.

The “Oktoberfest” and the “Chile and Frijole Festival” are two of the most well-known.

19. Heroes Plaza–National Medal of Honor Memorial

Pueblo, with a population of just over 100,000 permanent residents, is home to four Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, more than any other city in the United States.

The Pueblo Convention Center’s foyer has an associated indoor display showing the soldiers’ uniforms and replicas of their medals.

William Crawford, Drew Dix, Carl Sitter, and Murphy are all honored with life-sized bronze. You will find all these statues at the plaza, downtown pueblo.

The installation also chronicles the stories of how each soldier came to receive the United States Armed Forces’ greatest honor.

Every day of the year, the Heroes Plaza is open to the public at all hours. The Pueblo Convention Center’s foyer has an associated indoor display showing the soldiers’ uniforms and replicas of their medals.

20. The Centre for American Values, Pueblo

The Centre for American Values, established in 2010, is a charitable organization with humanitarian and educational goals that houses 154 portraits of Medal of Honor recipients from the United States.

The president of the United States gives the medal of honor. It is bestowed on a serviceman or woman who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to serve and save others. In addition, this museum honors these ordinary folks who performed extraordinary things.

Each honoree’s story is conveyed through photographs and tales, from the First World War to Afghanistan and Iraq,

The stories of bravery under impossible (for me as a civilian) conditions are extremely inspiring.

The exhibit is one of only two permanent exhibits in the country; the other is at the Pentagon.

Furthermore, you will find a steel memorial at the center’s entrance World Trade Center (WTC). Members of the New York City Fire Department dedicated the WTC Steel Memorial in 2012.

Besides the exhibits, the Center makes classroom visits to teach the story. All the honorees who are still alive have attended in person.

Take a walk through the sacred ground. It will inspire you.

The Center is free and opens every day from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

21. Old Town, Pueblo

If you’re hungry in Pueblo, head to Old Town, where you’ll discover a variety of restaurants serving Italian, Greek, Polish, Irish, and German cuisines.

The main gastronomic impact here is Mexican flavors, the green chili pepper. You can discover this thanks to Pueblo’s mascot.  You should try the green pig chili or the slopper. The slopper is a hamburger heaped with the famed spicy green sauce. It is frequently roasted and cooked into a stew to top various foods.

Start your trip to Pueblo, Colorado

Whether you want to explore amazing historical places, look through history for fallen heroes, spend the day at a park, perform outdoor activities, visit a zoo to see wildlife.

You will be dazzled by Pueblo’s magnificent historical monuments and attractions. We highly recommend a vacation here.

Finally, don’t forget to take a pleasant stroll along a beautiful river walk, you won’t regret any of the activities, it’s fun throughout!.