Best Fun Things to do in Pueblo Colorado

17 Fun Things to do in Pueblo, CO (7 are Free)

NOTE*** The content on this page may contain affiliate links, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  More information: disclosure page.

Although this is one of the most underrated destinations in the state, you will find many fun things to do in Pueblo, Colorado.  Considered the gateway to southeastern Colorado, you won’t be left wondering what to do in Pueblo after getting to know these favorite activities.

Of course, this list is family-friendly and make great vacation ideas with kids.   Southern Colorado has become a popular destination and you can consider adding our ideas for Colorado Springs to your visit too.

In full disclosure, I have family who have lived in Pueblo for 3 generations. So I have a soft spot in my heart for Pueblo.

About Pueblo

Pueblo is situated at the confluence of the Arkansas River and the Fountain Creek in the high desert of Colorado.  Located 45 minutes southeast of Colorado Springs, it is a recreational and economic hub of Southeastern Colorado. 

Pueblo was founded on the mining and steel operations at the turn of the century.  In fact, “Steel City” is still one of the largest steel-producing cities in the US

Best Fun things to do in Pueblo Colorado with kids and family
Best Fun things to do in Pueblo Colorado with kids and family

What is Pueblo Colorado famous for?

Pueblo is known as “Steel City” for the history of the steel mill and smelter and current steel production.  In 1993, it gained the name “Home of Heroes” for the four living recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor.  Additionally, Pueblo has developed the Arkansas River Walk along the and the Historic Union Avenue District along the Arkansas River.  


Map of the Best Things to Do in Pueblo

Click on the image below for an interactive Google Map and choose the locations for the activities that you want to do.

Click on the image for the location of things to do in Pueblo. Numbers for things to do in the blog post are in the image
Click on the image for the location of things to do in Pueblo

Many visitors ask: What is there to do in Pueblo Colorado?  Click on the map above to get an interactive Google Map of and directions to the best things to do in Pueblo on this list. This list will help you choose what to do in on your trip.


Pueblo Zoo

Watching the monkeys play is the best thing to do at the Pueblo Zoo
Watching the monkeys play is the best thing to do at the Pueblo Zoo

This 30-acre zoo is home to over 420 animals of more than 140 species.  The Pueblo Zoo has a variety of exhibits for kids to see animals in action and learning activities in the visitor center.  This is one of our favorite zoos to visit – read more about Why You will Love Pueblo Zoo

Our younger kids enjoyed feeding the animals at the petting zoo.  Many interactive activates exist throughout the zoo.  We found that this zoo is the perfect size for families to make it through on a short day without feeling exhausted. 

  • Website
  • Location:  3455 Nuckolls Ave, Pueblo, CO 81005
  • Hours:  Daily 9AM to 5PM – winter hours may vary
  • Cost: Adult admission $12 and children $10
  • Discounts: discounts for military families, 50% discount for reciprocal zoo members, check the website for other discounts and free days

Buell Children’s Museum

Visit the Buell Children's Museum Pueblo with activities for families
Visit the Buell Children’s Museum Pueblo with activities for families

The Buell Children’s Museum is an award-winning museum and was recognized as the second-best children’s museum for art by Child Magazine.  We have found this little museum is full of innovative, hands-on exhibits focusing on the arts, science, and history. 

We had fun watching the El Pomar Magic Carpet Theater and creating in the Artrageous Studio.  They even have Buell Baby Barn for kids under four that the toddlers loved to crawl around in.

  • Buell Children’s Museum Website
  • Location: 210 N Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Hours:  Summer Tues – Sat: 11 am – 5 pm, Sunday: 12 – 4 pm (winter may have reduced hours)
  • Cost: Admission is $8 for Adults, $6  for Children
  • Discounts: Coupons are on the website here and check for free days

El Pueblo History Museum

El Pueblo History Museum is a community museum featuring the history of Pueblo, highlighting the region’s cultural and ethnic groups.  Kids will enjoy this small museum with interactive exhibits where they could touch and build things.  

The highlight for families is the living museum in the re-created adobe trading post and plaza from the 1840s.  The archaeological excavation site of the original El Pueblo trading post from 1842 is adjacent to the museum.

The award-winning “Children of Ludlow” exhibit, depicting the history of the Ludlow Massacre, is also on display at El Pueblo History Museum.

  • Website
  • Location: 3301 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003-4266
  • Cost: $5 per adult
  • Discounts:  FREE for kids (ages 17 & under) from Memorial Day through Labor Day!

Pueblo Historic Arkansas Riverwalk.  

Things to do in the day and night at Pueblo River Walk
Things to do in the day and night at Pueblo River Walk

Did you know there is a Riverwalk in Pueblo?  Who knew – right? This little river walk has so many activities for families. Little restaurants line the sidewalk, boats up and down the canal, sculptures decorate the entire path, and there is green grass to picnic on. A list of things to do in Pueblo would not be complete without guiding you towards the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. In the summer you can catch a concert or special event at the plaza.  During the night the lights come on and give everything a magical look. 

If you want to stay right downtown and walk to the Riverwalk we recommend staying at Courtyard by Marriott Pueblo –it is attached to the Convention Center.  It is very convenient to the Riverwalk and has a pool and breakfast. 

  • Riverwalk Website
  • Location: 125 Riverwalk Place Pueblo, Colorado 81003 
  • Hours:  24 hours (check the website for boating hours)
  • Cost:  Free to walk 
  • Notes: You can take a boat, gondola, Pedal boat, or stand up paddleboard.  Don’t miss the Hero’s Plaza. 

Union Avenue Historic District

A unique perspective of the Train Depot at the Union Avenue Historic District
Pueblo Union Depot with Train at the Union Avenue Historic District

After the disastrous flood of 1921, the levees were built to protect this historic downtown area from future floods. You can see the river and levees from the backside of the Train Depot.

The current historic district has 83 buildings on the National Historic Register.  Many of the buildings are beautifully restored in the 1880’s brick and red sandstone style. The Union Depot is still a train station and gathering place for the local community.  In fact, our wedding reception was help here.

The Union Avenue district hosts many large gatherings and events such as the “B Street Bash” “Oktoberfest” and “Chile and Frijole Festival”

The most convenient place to stay here is Springhill Suites by Marriott Pueblo Downtown. – A hotel suite right in the heart of downtown so you can walk to the Riverwalk area. Hot breakfast, family rooms, and a pool. 

  • Union Avenue Historic District Website
  • Location: 101 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Hours:  24 hours
  • Cost: Free

Camp at Lake Pueblo, Colorado State Park

Paddle Boarding is a fun thing to do at Lake Pueblo State Park
Paddle Boarding is a fun thing to do at Lake Pueblo State Park

Lake Pueblo is a reservoir in the west part of Pueblo County.  With 60 miles of shoreline and 10,000 acres of land, you will find plenty of recreational opportunities.  You can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, camping and swimming at a special swim beach.  It’s one of the best places to fish for the hybrid fish called a wiper, a cross between a striped bass and a white bass.  Renting a pontoon boat is a fun activity for your family’s day out at the Reservoir. 

The campground at Lake Pueblo is so popular that it fills to capacity almost every weekend. The campground has 393 campsites over three different areas. 281 sites have electric hookups for RV and accommodate lengths up to 43 feet.

Pro Tip: You don’t even need to have an RV – you can rent one from a local from $85 a night – check prices here. We suggest you rent from Outdoorsy and we even have a coupon for your first trip – $50 off your first RV rental (applied at checkout)

  • Lake Pueblo State Park Website 
  • RV rental $50 coupon
  • Location: 101 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Hours:  24 hours (9 AM – 4 PM visitor center)
  • Cost: $9 State Park Pass (camping $22 -$36 per night)
  • Notes:  All camping sites are by reservation only.   Swimming is only allowed at the swim beach

Rosemount Museum 

This beautiful Victorian mansion was built in 1893.  It was originally home to the John A. and Margaret Thatcher family and contains almost eventing is original.  Guided tours will take you through the house where you will learn add about the Thatcher Family and the history of Pueblo and the Victorian era.

This museum is best for older children and adults.    If you are lucky you can enjoy one of the free events like the Antique and Classic Car Show,  Easter Egg hunt, Halloween, Christmas and so many more.

The former carriage house for the Thatcher family is located on the property and is currently an event center. The unique building is available to rent for private events.

  • Rosemont Museum Website
  • Location: 419 W 14th St, Pueblo, CO 81003-2707
  • Cost: The cost of the tour is $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 kids.
  • Discounts:  5 and under are free, many events are free

Mesa Drive-In

A fun family friendly thing to do in Pueblo is watch a movie at the Mesa Drive In
A fun family-friendly thing to do in Pueblo is watching a movie at the Mesa Drive-In

One of the last remaining drive-in movie theaters in Colorado is just east of downtown Pueblo on Sant Fe Drive.  The theater was established in 1951 and has run during summers ever since.

If you haven’t been to a drive-in theater – go now! Drive-in theaters are quickly becoming extinct as land values increase and other entertainment options are built.  This is one of the best things to do at night in Pueblo with kids.

  • Mesa Drive-In Website
  • Location: 2625 Santa Fe Drive Pueblo, CO 81006
  • Hours:  summer evenings at sunset
  • Cost: $10 adults and children under 12 are free (up to 4 per adult)
  • Notes:  Cash only – they do not accept credit cards or checks

Steel Works Center of the West

There’s no doubt that Pueblo was built on the coal and steel industry.  Anyone interested in the history of Pueblo, industrial revolution and immigration would like this museum. 

Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I) was a strong force in the development of Pueblo and Southern Colorado. The Steelworks Museum is housed in the former CF&I Medical Dispensary, built in 1901. 

The exhibits are all related to the steel industry, specifically the CF&I, and the impacts on the American West.  The museum highlights the life of workers at the mill, their dedication to the hard jobs, family life, and life during war years.  

  • Steel Works Website
  • Location: 215 Canal St. Pueblo, CO 81004
  • Cost:$6/adult and $4 up to age 4-12
  • Discounts:  under 4 free, group discounts available

Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center 

Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center in Pueblo
Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center in Pueblo

This arts and conference complex has been the heart of arts education and entertainment in Southern Colorado since 1972.  Just the architecture and the outdoor sculpture art are worth the visit to the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center.  If you are lucky you can catch the Sangre de Cristo Ballet, the Pueblo Symphony or Steel City Theater productions. 

  • Sangre de Cristo Arts Center Website
  • Location: 210 N Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Hours:  Weds – Sunday 11AM – 4 PM
  • Cost: Free to walk around (plus admission to an event)
  • Discounts: Check the Website for current prices and discounts

Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

With over 100 years of aviation history, kids and adults will love this airplane themed museum.  In fact, it is rated the #1 thing to do in Pueblo on TripAdvisor reviews

I am not sure if my son or grandparents enjoyed this museum the most.   

The museum houses military aircraft dating from World War I to current times.  The docents are very knowledgeable and most vets who have lived the history.   They willingly tell their stories and bring the displays to life.

There are over 25 aircraft are stored inside and outside two hangers.  With more than 100 displays and exhibits in the museum, you will find something new every time. 

Some of the highlights are actual F16, F15, and a huge B-29.    My 11-year-old son said his favorite was the NASA space exhibit. Maybe because he is into space, or because he has a harder time relating to the Cold War than the adults do.  Either way, he loved it.

  • Weisbrod Museum Website
  • Location: 31001 Magnuson Ave, Pueblo
  • Cost: $10 adults, $8 for Seniors and Vets, 
  • Discounts: Children under 7 are free, Active Duty personnel are free

Pueblo Railway Museum 

Pueblo Railway Museum is one of the things to do in Pueblo CO
Trains at the Pueblo Railway Museum

Located behind the Pueblo Union Train Station are several old rail cars open to the public for exploring.  If you love trains there will be lots for you to see. It is not a true museum as you would think, but a collection of railroad cars and a Baldwin 4-8-4 steam engine.

The exhibits are all available but have little explanation and no formal tour.   If you would like a tour or more information call 719-251-5024 ahead of time.  

You will be right along the tracks of the main lines for the UP and BNSF trains.  So you will likely see trains go by while you are visiting.

If you don’t have a specific interest in trains, this is probably a good stop along with seeing the beautiful Union Depot and surrounding area.

They do have events throughout the year that include a short ride on the trains. On the Facebook Page you can find out about events like the  Pueblo Express, Cemetery Express, and Independence Day Breakfast and Train Rides.

  • Website:
  • Location: 301 W B St, Suite 100, Pueblo, CO 81003-3445
  • Cost:  Free

Visit Eiler Heights Historic Neighborhood 

Learn the history of Pueblo by visiting a historic Eilers Heights Neighborhood
Learn the history of Pueblo by visiting a historic Eilers Heights Neighborhood in Pueblo

Pueblo is full of cultural neighborhoods that were settled at the turn of the century during the old mining and steelworks days. “Old Bojon Town” or the more recent name Eiler Heights is the neighborhood where the Slovenian immigrants settled in the early-1900’s. So I have to admit, that I am shamelessly adding this area because of the wonderful memories I have with my grandmother (who built a house here).

St. Mary’s Church, Eilers Place, original brick homes and 9 of the founding families, are all still in the neighborhood.  If you are in Pueblo, Eilers’ Place is worth a visit to be transported back in time to the neighborhood tavern as a gathering place.

In fact, Authentic Pueblo Eats wrote a full story on Eiler’s Place.

While you are in the neighborhood you can grab a bite to eat at Do Drip Inn.  This family-owned business has been serving up Italian food for 40 years in a historic building in Pueblo. 

Although they are known for the sweet crust pizza, you can get different Italian food and delicious breakfast too. 

  • Do Drop In Website:
  • Eilers’ Place – Facebook
  • Location: 326 E Mesa Ave Pueblo, Colorado 81006
  • Hours:  10 AM – 2AM
  • Cost: Free to walk the neighborhood and visit the restaurants
  • Notes:  Check the Facebook page for upcoming gatherings and events. 

Pueblo Heritage Museum 

Pueblo Heritage Museum is one of the things to do in Pueblo
Pueblo Heritage Museum

Did you know that Pueblo was once the saddle making capital of the world?  Learn this and other historical facts of the region at the Pueblo Heritage Museum.

Claiming that the “Pueblo story starts here”  this museum ties to together the long history of Pueblo and the southwest region of Colorado.   It is aptly located in the restored 1924 Denver & Rio Grande Western Freight Station.

The exhibits show archaeology, local history, telephones, railroads, horses and the many ethnic heritages is that make Pablo unique.

Recently, there have been several children’s activities added to the museum to make it more interactive for kids. Small children will like these activities but may not have the same stamina for the rich history at the museum that the adults do. 

  • Website:
  • Location: 201 W B St
  • Cost:  Adults $6, Seniors, military and students $5, Children $6-12

Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center – River Campus

Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus - photo credit Justin Novosel
Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center – River Campus has outdoor family-friendly activities – photo credit Justin Novosel

The Nature & Raptor Center of Pueblo is located along the Arkansas River in the beautiful Rock Canyon. The center features a variety of facilities and picnic areas and offers educational nature programs for all ages.  You can bike, walk, or rollerblade along the paved riverside trails, fish from the scenic fishing deck, or visit the rehabilitation center for birds of prey.  

The Raptor Center provides educational programs and activities, like birds of prey presentations, summer camps and “birdathons”

  • Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center Website
  • Location: 5200 Nature Center Rd Pueblo, CO 81008
  • Hours:  Tuesday through Sunday: 11AM – 4PM
  • Cost:  $5 a car 
  • Notes:  Check the Facebook page for upcoming gatherings and events. 

Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center – Mountain Campus

The Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center actually has two campuses, so I had to name the Beulah campus separately.  I remember this place fondly as Pueblo Mountain Park.  

This area, located 26 miles west of Pueblo, has a completely different ecosystem and atmosphere from the city.  It is one of the locals’ favorite afternoon getaways to cool off from the summer sun or play in the winter snow. 

The 611 acres of the park covers an altitude of 6500 feet to 7400 feet.  Six miles of hiking trails are dispersed through of the park and include Devil’s Canyon Trail, Northridge Trail, Mace Trail and Tower Trail.  

The Horseshoe Lodge is onsite and a perfect place for a retreat.   It is complete with lodge, dorms, pavilion, classroom, challenge course, and catering.  

  • Website
  • Location: 9112 Mountain Park Road. Beulah, CO 81023
  • Cost: Free

Places to Stay in Pueblo

If you are planning a trip here, we have some recommendations for the best places to stay in Pueblo.

Best Hotels for Families in Pueblo

I found 27 places to stay on Booking.com. You can look through all the places yourself on our reservations link for Pueblo CO

These are the places that we recommend that you consider staying at.  The 2 hotels on the list are excellent for families – many friends and family have stayed here.  Or consider renting a condo or house for your stay in Pueblo. 

  • Springhill Suites by Marriott Pueblo Downtown. – A hotel suite right in the heart of downtown so you can walk to the Riverwalk area. Suites are perfect for families to spread out and relax. Hot breakfast, family rooms, and a pool. 
  • Courtyard by Marriott Pueblo –The Courtyard by Marriot is attached to the Convention Center.  This hotel is very convenient to the Riverwalk and has a pool and breakfast. 
  • Vintage Modern – Rent a House in town – Mesa Junction. Renting as house is the a great idea for families – we do this all the time.

Camping near Pueblo

Family Enjoying Camping Holiday In Camper Van

Pueblo has many places to tent and RV camp in town and in the nearby foothills. You don’t even need to own an RV to enjoy camping. You can rent one from a local person (you could even have one delivered!). See all the RV rentals available in Pueblo starting at $90 a night – check prices on Outdoorsy – Pueblo here.

Lake Pueblo State Park – enjoy camping right on the lake to cool off in the hot summer days. This campground is super popular and you need reservations

KOA – Enjoy the friendly family atmosphere, level Pull-Thru RV Sites, clean restrooms, laundry room and free Wi-Fi/cable


When to visit Pueblo

Pueblo has four distinct seasons with hot summers and cool winters.  In the high desert, the winters are mild and the summers are hot and dry.  

Winter average temperatures range from 12 degrees to 45 degrees Fahrenheit.  In the heat of summer, the average temperatures are 62 degrees to 93 degrees with multiple days reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 

For more information about the weather during your visit check the average temperatures here

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s easy to participate in outdoor actives all year round. 

If you want more information about what to do this weekend, check the official Pueblo visitors guide here.  Summer weekends you will find fishing derbies, BBQ gatherings, street parties, drive-in movies and more! 


Final Thoughts about Things to do in Pueblo, CO

Pueblo is located along the Arkansas River in Southeast Colorado.  It is not only a traditional mining town – it is also a place located in a uniquely beautiful landscape and offers opportunities to explore nature and to have family fun.  This list should get you started with planning activities for your trip to Pueblo. 

Things to do along the Pueblo Trail System - photo credit Justin Novosel
Things to do along the Pueblo Trail System -photo credit Justin Novosel

If you would like to visit more locations a day trip to Buelah Mountain Park, San Isabel National Forest, Canon City, or Colorado Springs might be in order.

Colorado Springs is within 45 minutes of Pueblo and has many things to do. If you are considering Colorado Springs you will find our articles on the area useful:

Pueblo is a unique mix of historic locations, modern activities, outdoor recreation, and delicious food.  The activities are also affordable – a big plus for families. 

If you want more ideas of cheap (and free) things to do in Colorado read our post and download the checklist of 100+ affordable things to do in Colorado. 

Need help planning your next vacation to Colorado? Let us help you with the free step-by-step trip planning template.

What is your favorite in the list of things to do in Pueblo, Colorado?  Did I miss something? 

Best and Free things to do in Pueblo Colorado with kids and family
Best things to do in Pueblo Colorado including 7 free things to do
Shauna Kocman founder Family Travel Fever
Shauna Kocman founder of Family Travel Fever

Hi, I’m Shauna – Welcome to Family Travel Fever.  We are a large family, that was bitten by the travel bug!  I take the kids by myself because I don’t mind flying or driving solo with my crew to discover the coolest places.

Sign up for our email list for my best travel tips plus get the family travel planner free. 

Similar Posts

2 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.