Tucked along the Arkansas River in Southern Colorado, Pueblo is a city that proudly wears its history on its sleeve. Forget any old ideas you might have; this isn’t just a pass-through town.
It’s a place with a gritty, authentic heart, a deep industrial past, and a creative spirit that’s totally infectious. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the weather is practically begging you to get outside and explore.
Pueblo is the kind of destination that rewards the curious traveler, offering surprises around every corner.
Get ready to discover a side of Colorado that’s rich with culture, flavor, and adventure. We’ve put together the ultimate list of the 12 best things to do in Pueblo, Colorado, packed with insider tips and local secrets.
From wandering through a world-class art museum to biting into a legendary local sandwich, your itinerary is about to get seriously exciting. This city is poised to become your new favorite hidden gem. Let’s dive in and see what makes Pueblo so special.
1. Wander the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk – Best Overall Experience
If you only have time for one thing in Pueblo, make it the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. This stunning 26-acre urban waterfront is the absolute heart and soul of the city. It’s like a mini-San Antonio River Walk but with a totally unique Colorado vibe.
You can stroll along the paved paths, cross charming bridges, and watch the gondolas and pedal boats glide by. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with families enjoying a day out and friends meeting for a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants.
The Riverwalk isn’t just pretty; it’s packed with things to do. In the summer, you can hop on a boat tour to learn about the area’s history. Throughout the year, it serves as the central hub for Pueblo’s biggest events and festivals.
The surrounding Union Avenue Historic District is a treasure trove of beautifully restored brick buildings housing unique shops and art galleries.
Spending a day here is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Pueblo. It perfectly captures the city’s blend of history, recreation, and community spirit.
2. Dive into History at the El Pueblo History Museum – Best For A Cultural Deep Dive
To really understand Pueblo, you have to start with its story. The El Pueblo History Museum is the perfect place to do just that. This isn’t a stuffy, old-fashioned museum; it’s a vibrant cultural center that brings the region’s past to life.
The exhibits take you on a journey through time, from the area’s early indigenous inhabitants to the waves of settlers and the booming steel industry that defined the city. The museum does a fantastic job of telling these stories in a way that feels personal and engaging.
One of the coolest features is the re-created 1840s adobe trading post right on the grounds. It gives you a tangible sense of what life was like at this crucial crossroads.
The museum also hosts rotating exhibits that often focus on local artists and contemporary issues, ensuring there’s always something new to see.
It’s an affordable and fascinating stop that provides essential context for your visit. For anyone looking for educational things to do in Pueblo, this museum is a must-see. You’ll walk out with a much deeper appreciation for this resilient city.
3. Explore the Pueblo Zoo – Best For Families
A day at the Pueblo Zoo is a guaranteed win for the whole family. This compact, charming zoo has been a beloved institution for over a century, and it’s easy to see why.
The animal habitats are well-designed and naturalistic, home to everything from majestic lions and giraffes to playful monkeys and local wildlife like black bears. It’s the perfect size for a fun, manageable outing without the overwhelming scale of a huge metropolitan zoo.
The zoo places a big emphasis on education and conservation, with knowledgeable keepers who love to share fun facts during feeding times. Kids will love the interactive Australian Walkabout exhibit and the chance to feed the gentle goats in the contact yard.
Special events like Boo at the Zoo in the fall and Zoo Lights in winter make it a year-round destination.
For a stress-free, enjoyable day creating core family memories, finding things to do in Pueblo doesn’t get much better than this. Pack some snacks, grab your camera, and get ready for some animal encounters.
4. Stroll Through the Pueblo Nature Center – Best For Bird Watchers
Need a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the city? The Pueblo Nature Center is your spot. This 100-acre wildlife sanctuary and education center is a hidden oasis along the Arkansas River.
The trails here are flat and easy, winding through cottonwood forests and along the riverbank. It’s a prime location for bird watching; bring your binoculars because you might spot great blue herons, woodpeckers, and even the occasional bald eagle.
The center itself has interactive exhibits about the local ecosystem, which are great for kids and adults alike. The staff are incredibly friendly and passionate about the environment.
It’s a place where you can truly slow down, listen to the sounds of nature, and forget you’re in the middle of a city. Whether you’re an avid birder or just someone who needs a quiet moment, a visit to the Nature Center is one of the most relaxing things to do in Pueblo.
Best of all, it’s free, though donations are appreciated to help maintain this beautiful space.
5. Catch a Game or Concert at the Pueblo Memorial Hall – Best For Live Entertainment
For a night out on the town, check the schedule at the Pueblo Memorial Hall. This historic venue, built in 1919, has been beautifully restored and is the city’s premier spot for live entertainment.
The atmosphere is electric, with a mix of old-world charm and modern comfort.
You never know what you might see here—it could be a thrilling minor-league basketball game, a stand-up comedy show, a Broadway-style musical, or a concert from a tribute band covering your favorite classic rock group.
The energy of a live crowd in this intimate setting is something special. It feels like a true community event. Before the show, grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants and make an evening of it.
Checking out an event at the Memorial Hall is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Pueblo for a lively night out. It’s a chance to see Pueblo at its most vibrant and connect with the local community.
Be sure to book your tickets in advance for popular shows!
6. Get Creative at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center – Best For A Rainy Day
On a day when the weather isn’t cooperating, head straight for the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. This is far more than just an art museum; it’s a massive complex dedicated to creativity in all its forms.
You can spend hours exploring the multiple galleries, which feature everything from classic Western art to cutting-edge contemporary works by regional and national artists. The exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to discover.
But the Arts Center is also a hub of activity. They offer a huge range of art classes and workshops for all ages—you could try your hand at painting, pottery, or dance.
The Buell Children’s Museum, located within the center, is a wonderland of interactive exhibits that will keep kids entertained for hours.
With its rich lineup of performances and events, finding engaging things to do in Pueblo is easy at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. It’s a cultural powerhouse that showcases the city’s deep appreciation for the arts.
7. Bike or Walk the Pueblo River Trail System – Best For Outdoor Exercise
Lace up your sneakers or pump up your bike tires, because Pueblo’s extensive river trail system is a dream for anyone who loves to be active outdoors.
This network of paved trails stretches for over 30 miles along the Arkansas River, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and key attractions. The path is mostly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely walk, an invigorating run, or a family bike ride. The views of the river and the city skyline are fantastic.
You can start your journey at the Riverwalk and head out towards Lake Pueblo State Park, or explore the trails that wind through the city.
It’s a fantastic way to see different parts of Pueblo while getting some fresh air and exercise. Locals use these trails every day, and you’ll quickly see why.
They are well-maintained and safe. For active visitors, exploring the trails is one of the best outdoor things to do in Pueblo. It’s free, healthy, and offers a unique perspective on the city’s natural beauty.
8. Hunt for Treasures at the Pueblo Farmers Market – Best For Foodies
For a true taste of Southern Colorado, you can’t beat the Pueblo Farmers Market. Held on Saturdays from spring through fall, this market is a vibrant community gathering place.
Local farmers bring the freshest produce you can imagine—famous Pueblo chiles, sweet corn, juicy peaches, and so much more. The energy is contagious as people chat with growers, sample goodies, and fill their bags with the week’s best finds.
But it’s not just about fruits and veggies. You’ll find artisan bread, local honey, handmade crafts, and delicious prepared foods. Grab a breakfast burrito or a fresh pastry and enjoy some live music.
Supporting this market means you’re supporting local families and small businesses. A trip here is more than just shopping; it’s an experience.
For anyone compiling a list of authentic things to do in Pueblo, a Saturday morning at the farmers market is an absolute essential. Come hungry and leave happy.
9. Spend a Day at Lake Pueblo State Park – Best For Water Sports
Just a short drive from downtown, Lake Pueblo State Park is an outdoor playground that feels a world away. The massive reservoir is the go-to spot for every kind of water activity you can think of.
On a hot summer day, the place is buzzing with people boating, jet-skiing, fishing, and swimming. You can rent a pontoon boat for a relaxing cruise or try your luck catching walleye or smallmouth bass.
If you prefer to stay on land, the park has over 60 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, with stunning views of the water from the cliffs above. The Rock Canyon area is particularly beautiful.
With a full-service marina, picnic areas, and campgrounds, you can easily make a whole day or even a weekend of it. For adventure seekers, a trip to Lake Pueblo is one of the most exciting things to do near Pueblo, Colorado. It’s the perfect remedy for a case of cabin fever.
10. Discover Aviation at the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum – Best For History Buffs
Aviation and military history enthusiasts, this one’s for you. The Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum is a hidden gem that showcases an impressive collection of over 30 aircraft and countless artifacts.
Housed partly in a former World War II training base hangar, the museum has a wonderfully authentic feel. You can get up close to everything from a massive B-29 Superfortress bomber to fighter jets, helicopters, and vintage training planes.
The volunteers here are often veterans themselves, and their personal stories bring the exhibits to life in a powerful way. It’s a hands-on experience where you can even climb into the cockpit of certain aircraft.
The museum does an incredible job of honoring the men and women who served. It’s a humbling and fascinating look into a critical part of our nation’s history.
For a unique and educational outing, this is one of the most memorable things to do in Pueblo. Allow a few hours to really take it all in.
11. Enjoy a Show at the Historic Chief Theater – Best For A Night Out
Another fantastic venue for live entertainment is the historic Chief Theater. Located on Union Avenue, this beautifully restored 1920s movie palace now hosts a variety of performances, from live theater and dance to film festivals and concerts.
The interior is stunning, with its classic decor and intimate setting. Seeing a show here feels like a special occasion, a step back into a more glamorous era.
The programming is diverse, often featuring local talent alongside touring acts. It’s a cornerstone of Pueblo’s thriving arts scene. Catching a performance at the Chief is a wonderful way to support local arts and have a fantastic night out.
Pair it with dinner at a nearby restaurant for a perfect evening. For those looking for cultural things to do in Pueblo, the Chief Theater offers a experience that is both entertaining and deeply connected to the city’s historic character.
12. Play and Explore at Mineral Palace Park – Best For A Relaxing Afternoon
For a classic, all-American park experience, head to Mineral Palace Park. This is one of Pueblo’s oldest and largest parks, a green sanctuary with something for everyone.
Kids will love the fantastic, recently updated playgrounds. You can rent a paddleboat to cruise around the small lake, challenge a friend to a game on the tennis courts, or simply find a shady spot for a picnic.
The park is also home to the Mineral Palace Gardens, a serene area with beautiful flower beds and walking paths. It’s a popular spot for family reunions, birthday parties, and casual weekend hangouts.
The park has a relaxed, joyful atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Spending a lazy afternoon here is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do in Pueblo. It’s a place where you can unwind, let the kids run free, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a beautiful day outdoors.
Conclusion
Pueblo, Colorado, is a city that will sneak up on you and capture your heart. It’s a place of authentic charm, where history isn’t just in museums but felt in the brick streets and seen in the proud faces of the community.
From the tranquil Riverwalk to the exciting buzz of a live show, the best things to do in Pueblo offer a incredible mix of culture, nature, and pure fun.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your Pueblo adventure. Explore the trails, dive into the history, and savor the local flavor.
This Southern Colorado treasure is ready to show you a seriously good time. Your unforgettable trip to Pueblo is just a decision away