Pueblo, Colorado, stands along the Front Range in Southeast Colorado, about 40 miles south of Colorado Springs along the I-25 corridor. Known as "Steel City," Pueblo has an industrial heritage that includes steel production, mining and railroads. It's also home to the Colorado State Fair and an access point to plenty of outdoor recreational activities. In addition, the rebirth of the downtown area as a state-certified creative district has resulted in rich artistic offerings.
Museum Memories
- Several local museums showcase the city's unique history. Exhibits at the El Pueblo History Museum start with the area's First Peoples and trace development through the Spanish, French and American eras; Pueblo’s origins as a farming, ranching and mining town; and its industrial prominence. The Steelworks Museum and the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company Archives highlight the industry that inspired Pueblo's nickname. The Pueblo Railway Museum commemorates the five railroads that converged to make the city a transportation and industrial hub beginning in the late 19th century.
Recreation Locations
- Just west of the city, the Arkansas River flows into the Pueblo Reservoir. Lake Pueblo State Park, on the southwestern shore, provides an array of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking and bicycling. Swimming is permitted only in one area, Rock Canyon Swim Beach. Campsites and marinas are open throughout the year, and bald eagles nest in the park during the winter.The Colorado State Fair takes place in Pueblo every summer. The 10-day event showcases Colorado’s livestock, arts and crafts, and homemade foods. Other attractions include a rodeo and dog show, carnival rides, concerts and kids’ activities. During the rest of the year, trade shows, rodeos, concerts, circuses and similar events are held at the fairgrounds.
Artistic Activities
- Downtown Pueblo hosts an active creative community. The Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center includes galleries, a theater, a dance studio and the Jackson Sculpture Garden. Also on the grounds is the Buell Children’s Museum, which introduces children to art, history and science through interactive exhibits and activities. The Pueblo Arts Alliance promotes events such as First Friday Art Walks through the Pueblo Creative Corridor, an area filled with galleries, museums and performance spaces. Also downtown is the Art and Soul Street Gallery, where you can admire work by Colorado and New Mexico sculptors. Pieces usually remain on display for a year.
Open Air
- The 32-acre Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo showcases the city’s downtown. The park includes walking trails and launches for kayaks and canoes. Gondola boats, excursion boats and pedal boats are available during the summer. Seasonal events include a 4th of July orchestra performance, holiday lights and holiday boat rides. The Pueblo Zoo houses more than 400 animals that represent nearly 150 species, including Colorado natives such as elk and bison. The 25-acre zoo, which stands in City Park, is open year-round.
