Pueblo is located in the southern part of Colorado at the confluence of the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek. The city was built on steel as it was a top producer in the early 1900s. Between the steel mill and all the local farms, Pueblo has always been a melting pot of many cultures. This diversity has created some unique cuisine many involving the Pueblo green chili. Not often thought of as a vacation destination, Pueblo surprisingly has a lot to offer. Lake Pueblo State Park allows speed boats and options for all the other water sports, fishing, and biking. A quaint downtown area with great dining and brewery options. For those who need a mountain fix San Isabel Forest is just a short drive away.
Green chilies (Mirasol) are a staple in Pueblo cuisine and culture. The smell of chilies being roasted is the fist sign that fall is coming. The annual 3-day Chili and Frijoles Festival is held in September and is a must-attend event. So many restaurants with great chili related dishes. The Pass Key restaurant has been a staple in Pueblo since 1952. Find their booth and try the Italian sausage sandwich with a whole green chili and provolone.
One of the top 10 lakes in Colorado for boating, Lake Pueblo has two marinas. All kinds of boats, jet skies, canoes, water skis, and rafts are available to rent. Visitors also like to camp, bike, fish or go horseback riding. Lots of options for a weekend getaway.
Couples enjoy walking along the river looking at beautiful art and statues that explain Pueblo’s history. Just a few blocks away, both locals and visitors enjoy a beer in the converted police station and jail that is now Brues Alehouse.
Thirty minutes southwest of Pueblo is San Isabel National Forest. 19 of Colorado’s fourteeners are located in this forest. There are lakes to fish or kayak. A short hike from Isabel Lake will take you to hidden natural waterslide. Step away from nature for a moment and visit Bishops Castle. Over 60 years of work and a dream Jim Bishop created a castle out of rock and iron work all topped with a fire breathing dragon.
Pueblo doesn’t look like much from the freeway, but once in downtown couples love Union Street. Quaint little shops, antique stores, cafes, bars and restaurants now occupy the old Victorian-style brick buildings. At the end of the street is the old train station that has been turned into a museum and the Union Station restaurant.
Winters in Pueblo are often mild because it's located in the banana belt. There will be snow at times but often it melts the next day. Nights can be cold in 20s but it warms up to high 40s to 50 during the day.
Spring is perfect for fishing or kayaking in Pueblo. There will be a chill in the morning but it quickly warms up in the afternoon. Highs range from high 50s to 70s.
Located in more of a desert-like climate, summer days can be hot. However, because of altitude, the evening are often cooler and more comfortable. Day high temps can be in the 90s. Perfect for some time on the lake.
Days are still warm in the fall. Extended summer-like days on the lake. The temps quickly drop at night so make your way out to the farms for a hay ride and finding pumpkins. Day temps average 70s and nights 40s.