27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Pueblo, CO

Are you planning a family vacation to Pueblo, Colorado, and exploring some fun activities to make your trip a memorable one? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll take you through the list of the 27 best and fun things to do in Pueblo, CO, making your trip a unique one.

Nestled on the banks of the Arkansas River, Pueblo, Colorado, is more than just a city; it’s an experience. Nicknamed the “Steel City”, Pueblo is one of the largest steel-producing cities in the United States. With a blend of history, nature, culture, and gastronomy, there’s something to do in Pueblo for everyone.

This family-friendly destination is exceptionally safe, with a number of must-visit places and fun experiences, ensuring you make the most of your trip. While planning your trip, you also need to understand the best time to visit Pueblo, Colorado, to make the most of your vacation.

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Pueblo, CO (2024)

1. Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Located downtown along the Arkansas River, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk offers visitors a beautiful place to take a stroll. Constructed as part of an effort to attract tourists and trade to the city, the 32-acre urban waterfront is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pueblo, Colorado.

Here, you’ll find public art displays, fountains, and boat rides. The Riverwalk is also home to numerous events year-round, including the popular “Boats, Bands, and BBQ” festival.

On your visit, you can take a boat trip, walk along the mile-long channel, and explore art installations along the Riverwalk. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is also a great place to just sit and relax with your family and friends or explore many fun-filled attractions.

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

2. El Pueblo History Museum

One of the many things to do in Pueblo, CO, is to step back in time at El Pueblo History Museum. Established in 1990, this museum offers a rich tapestry of Pueblo’s history.

The museum showcases the region’s many cultural and ethnic groups through innovative exhibits, including the Borderlands of Southern Colorado, Steel City: 1980-2004, and Rainbow & Revolutions.

The historical sites include a re-created 1840s adobe trading post and plaza and the archaeological excavation site of the original 1842 El Pueblos trading post.

Visitors get to learn about the early Native American inhabitants, the Spanish colonial past, and the city’s evolution. You can also see a cultural event or festival at the museum’s central plaza.

Address: 301 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

3. Pueblo Zoo

One of the family-friendly things to do in Pueblo is to explore Pueblo Zoo. Located in City Park, this 25-acre facility is home to more than 420 animals representing at least 142 different species.

The zoo has an eco-friendly design, meaning animals live in habitats resembling their natural environments. Some animals in the zoo include cute critters, such as naked mole rats, but there are also animals from further afield, such as African lions.

Visit the Pueblo Zoo with your family and friends to see animals of different species from all over the world. Meet gazelles, lions, vultures, prairie rattlesnakes, red kangaroos, Malayan sun bears, and so much more. Interestingly, this zoo is the only place to see red pandas in the whole of Colorado.

Address: 3455 Nuckolls Ave, Pueblo, CO 81005, United States

4. Rosemount Museum

Built in 1893, this mansion is a symbol of opulence from the 19th century and showcases the life of the influential Thatcher family.

Situated on a square block at the corner of one of the highest points in north Pueblo, this 24,000-square-foot, three-story mansion is one of the best places to visit in Pueblo. The mansion contains thirty-seven rooms and houses most of the furniture from the era.

As part of the unique things to do in Pueblo, take a guided tour of this mansion and admire the home’s original finishing, accessories and decorative paintings. Explore every room in the opulent mansion and discover why the Rosemount Museum is regarded as “Colorado’s Crown Jewel”.

5. San Isabel National Forest

A short drive from Pueblo, exploring the San Isabel National Forest is one of the fun outdoor activities to do in the city. Established in 1902, this popular destination is home to 19 of Colorado’s 53 fourteeners peaks over 14,000 feet high, including Mount Elbert, the highest point in Colorado.

With over a million acres of pristine wilderness, the San Isabel National Forest offers a diverse of landscapes from alpine meadows to dense forests. Popular trails include the scenic Bear Lake Trail and the challenging Mount Columbia hike.

Outdoor enthusiasts can set up camps at one of the numerous campsites. If you’re lucky, you might spot wildlife like mules, deer, black beers, and even the elusive lynx.

Address: 2840 Kachina Drive, Pueblo, CO 81008, United States

6. Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

Found on a former Second World War Army base in 1943, the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum is a treasure for aviation enthusiasts. Established in the 1970s, the museum pays tribute to veterans and those who lost their lives in World War II.

The museum’s collection included about forty military and civilian aircraft, as well as military vehicles. Many of the aircraft are maintained in flying condition, demonstrating the museum’s commitment to preserving aviation heritage. The museum also houses an extensive collection of books and research material in its library.

You can take a guided tour, which often features retired pilots and engineers who share personal anecdotes, providing a unique, immersive experience. Special exhibits delve into the roles of women in aviation, the Tuskegee Airmen, and the evolution of ejection seats.

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

7. Union Avenue Historic Commercial District

One of the free things to do in Pueblo is to step back in time at the Union Avenue Historic Commercial District. This century-old business district is lined with meticulously preserved Victorian-era buildings, many of which now house boutiques, art galleries, and eateries.

The district is made up of 80 properties, 70 contributing to the historical and architectural importance of the district, including the Union Depot, Vail Hotel and Quaker Flour Mill.

As you stroll, you’ll notice architectural nuances reflective of the era – ornate ironwork, vintage signage, and beautifully restored facades.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the various plaques detailing the district’s past, while shoppers will be enticed by artisanal crafts, antiques, and unique souvenirs.

Address: 82 E D St, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

8. Lake Pueblo State Park

One of the best places to visit in Pueblo for outdoor recreation is the Lake Pueblo State Park. With over 4,600 surface acres of water, Lake Pueblo is a haven for anglers chasing after bass, catfish, and walleye.

The lake also offers 60 miles of shoreline and almost 10,000 acres of land for boating, camping, wildlife viewing and just plain relaxing.

You can also engage in land recreation such as hiking, biking, picnicking and diverse nature exploration. If you’re visiting with your family and friends, you can engage in water recreation such as sailing, motor-boating, waterskiing, river tubing and fishing.

Address: 640 Pueblo Reservoir Road, Pueblo, CO 81005, United States

9. Steelworks Center of the West

One of the unique things to do in Pueblo is to dive deep into. Pueblo’s steel industry heritage at the Steelworks Center of the West.

Once known as the “Steel City”, Pueblo’s economy and community were significantly shaped by the steel mills. Exhibits at the Steelworks Center detail the technology, the workers’ daily lives, and the socio-economic impact of the industry.

Spend time exploring this museum, look through exhibits featuring old photographs, artifacts, historical documents, maps, and an x-ray room, learn about the coal and steel industry and participate in fascinating lectures.

Address: 215 Canal St, Pueblo, CO 81004, United States

Exploring other attraction destinations near Pueblo? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Fort Collins, CO?

10. Buell Children’s Museum

One of the many fun things to do in Pueblo, CO, with kids is to visit the Buell Children’s Museum. Established in 2000, the Buell Children’s Museum is hailed as one of the top children’s museums in the nation.

Spanning over 12,000 square feet, the two-level facility encourages tactile learning through hands-on exhibits where children of all ages spend a day exploring STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and maths).

The Sensations exhibit, for instance, lets kids explore different environments, from dark caves to breezy mountains. The museum also hosts workshops where children can dabble in painting, sculpture, and multimedia art under expert guidance.

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

11. Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center

The Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center is both an architectural marvel and an arts hub. Established in 1972, the multi-disciplinary Centre for the Arts features seven galleries that rotate exhibits, showcasing local and international artists.

The center boasts a 500-seat theatre, which becomes a venue for dance performances, concerts, and plays. It also contains the Buell Children’s Museum, making it a full-day experience for families.

As part of the many things to do in Pueblo, explore the center’s sculpture harden, which features a fusion of natural beauty and artistic expression.

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

12. Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center

One of the best things to do in Pueblo for outdoor and nature enthusiasts is to explore the Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center. Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, this center is a testament to Pueblo’s commitment to nature preservation.

Spanning 611 acres, the Nature and Wildlife Discovery is divided into two campuses: the River Campus, offering a blend of aquatic, riparian transition, and semi-arid shortgrass prairie habitats and the Mountain Campus, offering a blend of ponderosa pine and mixed forests.

On your visit, take a guided tour and explore the riparian ecosystems and nature trials, which offer serene walks. You can also attend the periodic workshops, which cover topics ranging from birdwatching to nature photography.

Address: 5200 Nature Center Rd, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

13. Pueblo Railway Museum

Located on the Pueblo Union Depot in the Historic District, the Pueblo Railway Museum offers a nostalgic journey into the city’s rail history.

This outdoor museum is home to an amazing collection of vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses showcasing rail technology’s evolution. The museum’s pride is the AT&SF M160 Motorcar, a rare artifact from the 1930s.

Take a self-guided tour of the museum and see some of the outdoor equipment, which is free, or take a guided tour and learn about some of the most interesting train car exhibits at the Museum’s restoration shop.

Address: 200 W B St, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

14. Pueblo Ice Arena

One of the fun things to do in Pueblo is to engage in winter sports at Pueblo Ice Arena. Established in 1975, this modern facility is a year-round recreation center that offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and competitive ice hockey matches.

Sitting on 39,800 square feet, the Pueblo Ice Arena offers a wide range of special events, including laser light skating, holiday skates, and college nights. The arena has a controlled temperature of 50-54 degrees.

On your visit, you can partake in skating lessons, join a hockey league, or simply enjoy some of the arena’s special events. You can also visit the on-site pro shop, where you can get everything for an icy adventure, from skates to safety gear.

Address: 100 N Grand Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

15. Desert Hawk Golf Course

One of the fun things to do in Pueblo, CO, this weekend is to challenge yourself to the game of golf at Desert Hawk Golf Course. 

Established in 1972, this 18-hole golf course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level. The course is challenging yet provides a relaxing, picturesque backdrop.

The course layout is interspersed with water hazards, bunkers, and undulating greens. The on-site pro shop provides equipment rentals, and the clubhouse is perfect for post-game relaxation, offering panoramic vistas of the course and mountains.

Address: 251 McCulloch Blvd, Pueblo West, CO 81007, United States

16. Great Plains Park

Located in Aurora, Colorado, exploring the Great Plains Park is one of the best things to do near Pueblo for kids. Locally known as the “jewel off of jewel”, this hidden gem is a blend of recreational areas and natural habitats.

This 54.5-acre park features multiple playgrounds, a sprayground, picnic shelters, a softball diamond, a sports field, a half-court basketball court, fitness stations, and walking paths.

Explore this park with your family, engage in some of the sporting activities or jog the trail while your kids have fun at the playground.

Address: 20100 E Jewell Ave, Aurora, CO 80013, United States

17. City Park

Looking for fun things to do in Pueblo with your family today? Then, head to Pueblo’s City Park. Established in 1904, this 157-acre park is a beehive of fun family activities.

The park features an arboretum, baseball and softball field, bocce ball courts, pool, disc golf, drinking fountains, horseshoe lake, horseshoe pits, pavilions, playground, rides, trail access and zoo.

For a fun-filled day, head over to this park, stroll through the park, enjoy a memorable family picnic, and engage in sporting activities like basketball, bocce ball, tennis, etc.

Address: 800 Goodnight Avenue, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

18. Pueblo Convention Center

One of the fun things to do in Pueblo today is to catch an event at the Pueblo Convention Center. Built in 1997, this 47,000-square-foot convention center hosts events ranging from corporate meetings to pop-culture conventions.

The convention center features premium ballrooms, a spacious multi-function exhibit hall, meeting rooms, and a pre-function lounge. Its modern design, coupled with top-notch facilities, makes it a sought-after venue.

Visitors can explore the multi-purpose event center and also appreciate the convenience of the Courtyard by Marriot, attached to the Center, as well as the SpringHill suites located nearby.

Address: 320 Central Main St, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States

19. Pueblo Whitewater Park

Located in downtown Pueblo, Whitewater Park is one of the top attraction sites in the city. An adventurer’s delight, the Whitewater park offers challenges for kayakers and rafters.

With eight man-made drops and pools, the park provides varied levels of difficulty, ensuring both novices and pos have a thrilling experience.

On your visit, you can watch from the safety of the banks and cheer on kayakers navigating the rapids. If you must engage in water activities at the park, ensure to wear a life vest and helmet.

Address: San Pedro St, Pueblo, CO 81004, United States

20. Pueblo Levee Mural Project

One of the best things to do in Pueblo is to spend time admiring the Pueblo Levee Mural Project. Certified as the longest painting in the world by the Guinness Book of Records, the mural is a stunning canvas showcasing community-driven art.

Stretching for 3 miles, the levee became a canvas for artists in the 1970s, when students of Colorado State University-Pueblo began painting over existing graffiti.

While parts of the original murals have been removed due to construction, new sections continue to evolve, keeping the spirit of this public art project alive.

Address: Pueblo, CO, United States

21. Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness

One of the unusual things to do in Pueblo for nature and outdoor enthusiasts is to hike the Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness. Spanning over 23,000 acres, the wilderness area includes the summit of Greenhorn Mountain, the highest point in the Wet Mountains of Colorado.

The wilderness is highly forested with dry oak brush and ponderosa pine, but the Greenhorn Mountain is very popular among hikers and mountaineers. The view at the summit offers a panoramic view of the forest and adjourning natural areas like the Great Plains, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Pike Peaks, and Spanish Peaks.

As part of your adventure, hike the trails and climb to the summit of the mountain.

Address: Rye, CO 81069, United States

22. Lake Minnequa Park

One of the best places for fun family activities in Pueblo is Lake Minnequa Park. Located in the southwest part of the city, the lake is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The lake features a large lake, 16 acres of athletic turf fields, a 2.5-mile bike and walking trail, basketball courts, pavilion and picnic areas, and trail access.

Explore this park with your family and friends. Fish at the clear waters, which is home to catfish, bass, and bluegill.

Address: 3005 Lakeshore Drive, Pueblo, CO 81004, United States

23. Pueblo Memorial Hall

One of the fun things to do in Pueblo, CO, at night is to catch a performance at the Pueblo Memorial Hall. Dating back to 1919, this historic venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts, film screenings, theatre productions, family shows and comedy shows, among others.

The hall’s neoclassical design, combined with state-of-the-art acoustics, makes it a favorite among performers and audiences alike.

As part of your Pueblo itinerary, check the schedule for events and add it to your bucket list.

Address: 1 City Hall Place, Pueblo, CO 81003, United States