Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Pueblo County, CO

  • Published 2023/03/27

Pueblo County is a stunning destination with ever-changing seasons at the base of Colorado’s majestic Rocky Mountains.

Native American tribes once inhabited this region, creating a rich cultural heritage that can be enjoyed today through live music and outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, or hiking.

Plus, there are plenty more hidden gems to discover!

Whether visiting alone or with family, you will find something fun in this friendly county.

Here are the best things to do in Pueblo County, Colorado:

Climb the Breathtaking Bishop Castle

Exterior of Bishop Castle

KerryG / Shutterstock.com

Explore Rye Town, where you’ll find one of Colorado’s most striking monuments.

Head over to the nearby mountains to find Bishop Castle.

Bishop Castle is an awe-inspiring monument constructed of stones and iron, embodying the enchanting charm that awakens dreamlike fantasies.

Visiting Bishop Castle is a remarkable and incomparable experience, built from the ground up by one man over six decades.

Outdoor stairs at Bishop Castle

Jim Lambert / Shutterstock.com

You’ll be astonished by this three-story castle full of superb features.

Think ballrooms, turrets reaching for the sky, and bridges offering breathtaking views extending 100 miles away!

To top it off, you can see a vast 80-foot Fire-Breathing Dragon sculpture as you end your visit to Bishop Castle.

This odd, beautiful, fascinating, enjoyable attraction is free.

Interior of Bishop Castle

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Revel in Great Base Camp Nightlife at Pueblo KOA Journey

No matter where you go in downtown Pueblo, you can always locate a great camping spot.

Pueblo KOA Journey is situated along Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Royal Gorge, including Bishop Castle and San Isabel National Forest to downtown Pueblo.

It’s a terrific location for a fun night out with your loved ones.

Many services are at your disposal, including sparkling clean restrooms, a laundry room that is open 24/7, and even free Wi-Fi.

Its expansive campground offers level pull-through RV sites.

Spend some time at night gazing up at the stars with friends while roasting marshmallows over the fire pit.

You can also have fun riding pedal karts with kids while soaking up the sun in the playground.

Revive Your Connection with Nature in Pueblo Mountain Park

Take advantage of the tranquility that Pueblo Mountain Park has to offer in Beulah Valley.

You will discover something new from your adventure to the many trails and stunning landscapes at Pueblo Mountain Park.

The Devils Canyon and Mace trails, located in an awe-inspiring hiking gem, are challenging due to their elevation and rocky terrain.

Nonetheless, the journey is worth it when you witness the breathtaking vistas this area offers!

Young children will find joy within its bounds as old swings, and dome climbers are prepared for them.

If you plan on spending more time there, go to the camping areas with fire pits, barbeque grills, and toilets.

If you’re seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than Pueblo Mountain Park.

Surround yourself with lush greenery and its peaceful atmosphere for a tranquil getaway.

See Native and Exotic Animals at Pueblo Zoo

Exterior of Pueblo Zoo

Jeffrey, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Since the early 1900s, the Pueblo Zoo has been home to more than 420 animals representing 140 species.

It occupies 25 acres of Pueblo City Park and is run by the nonprofit Pueblo Zoological Society.

Pueblo County is worth exploring, especially if you stop by this one of the recognized areas by the National Register of Historic Places.

You will undoubtedly appreciate visiting nearly 100-year-old historical attractions like eagle exhibitions, the World of Color structures, and the Islands of Life.

You can go bird watching in the Asian Mountain region and see river otters up close.

Numerous animals from Asia, Australia, and even South America can be seen on the short-grass prairie.

Llamas at Pueblo Zoo

Greg Goebel, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You will enjoy seeing the cute yet frightening lions in the Serengeti Safari.

You can learn about zoo animals, including magnificent zebras, adorable penguins, African-painted dogs, and De Brazza’s monkeys.

After your zoo stroll, head to the Safari Cafe for a brief rest.

Enjoy your flavored fountain drink in a keepsake cup while munching on tasty goodies like popcorn, cotton candy, baked Cheetos, and more.

For a more in-depth zoo experience, you can go camping or participate in on-site programming and zoo volunteer programs.

A hyrax at Pueblo Zoo

Greg Goebel, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Have Some Wine and Chill at Gray’s Coors Tavern

One of the oldest taverns in Pueblo, Colorado’s “Steel City,” is Gray Coors Tavern.

Since 1934, this local hangout has been a favorite of friends and family.

You can enjoy your meal at the bar or the many shaded tables outside.

The walls are adorned with Pueblo high school baseball mitts and other sports memorabilia, creating a vintage atmosphere perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments!

Every weekend during the summer, you can enjoy live performances by regional musicians.

Gray Coors Tavern is home to the famous Slopper, an open-face burger covered and smothered in green chile and onions and generally served with onions and french fries.

You have to try it, and if you can, choose Pueblo’s green chile toppings.

If you like cheese, bacon, fried eggs, and guacamole, you can choose them as add-ons.

Enter Nature’s Paradise at Greenhorn Meadows Campground

Take a trip to Colorado City and climb Greenhorn Mountain for an awe-inspiring view of the encircling woodlands and town.

Greenhorn Meadows Campground offers a serene camping experience peacefully hidden within a grove of trees.

Modern amenities will make you feel at home and make camping pleasurable for everyone.

The stars could be seen here in the bright night sky, making it the ideal place to appreciate them while roasting a few marshmallows over a wood fire pit.

Nothing beats waking up to the sun rising over the horizon, its blazing orange rays illuminating the fantastic view of nearby mountains.

Spent the rest of your morning hanging out with friends or family, for there are many things to enjoy beneath the great hundred years old cottonwood trees.

You can expect to see numerous mule deer, a few whitetail deer, a fox, skunks, a golden eagle, and some migrating birds.

Savor every second of the breathtakingly beautiful Greenhorn Meadows Campground, an idyllic sanctuary in the heart of town.

Join Exciting Recreational Activities at Lake Isabel

The waters of Lake Isabel

Grossinger / Shutterstock.com

A 40-acre reservoir called Lake Isabel is in Rye City and is a part of the San Isabel National Forest.

Lake Isabel, which boasts pristine alpine scenery, towering pines, and nearby amenities, is a perfect choice for a mountain hideaway spot.

Lake Isabel has year-round outdoor activities, so it doesn’t matter whether you visit throughout the summer or the winter.

You and your family can enjoy sledding in the winter and other fun snow activities.

You can go stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, or kayaking over the lake during the summer.

If you like fishing, you can catch brown, brook, or rainbow trout.

Its shoreline is an excellent place to observe swooping migratory birds flying through the lush trees and shrubs.

Additionally, Lake Isabel might provide quick access to more exhilarating experiences like wildlife hunting, camping, hiking, and mountain biking.

Feel the Thrill at SoCo Escape Room

Can you put your family’s ability to work together and solve problems to the test?

Enter the challenging SoCo Escape Room in Pueblo City.

Get ready for a problematic live-action experience that is also suspenseful, as you have 60 minutes or fewer to stop a virus takeover, heist a vault, or save the galaxy.

Each chamber has a challenging theme, and you’ll love finding a solution to the problem in the room.

The tale is intriguing, the riddles are challenging but manageable, and the entertainment value is high.

However, adults must accompany youngsters under 18.

Few have succeeded despite numerous attempts.

The question is: Will you come out?

If you don’t try the SoCo Escape Room, you’ll miss the fun!

Enjoy Glamping in a Safari Tent at the Runaway Ranch

An authentic glamping experience awaits you at the Runaway Ranch in Beulah Valley.

You can pick from four different personalized and magical, beautiful glamping sites.

Experience the fairy forest and spend the night in a tipi, vintage trailer, or safari tent while taking the breathtaking sights.

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life, this will provide you with an unparalleled sense of peace and relaxation.

Furthermore, sharing this experience with your partner or loved one will create romantic memories to treasure forever!

Enjoy a spectacular view of the horizon dotted by twinkling stars while listening to serene music.

Snuggle up close together in front of crackling fire pits for warmth and reconnection with one another.

Make time during your break from reality to appreciate nature’s beauty and embrace fresh air, all offered exclusively here!

Take a Colorful Night Stroll at Neon Alley

A collection of signs at Neon Alley

Logan Bush / Shutterstock.com

The night sky of Pueblo City lights up through Neon Alley‘s 41 luminaires, a spectacular outdoor art display you won’t find anywhere else!

You’ll notice a variety of neon business signage designs with a captivating glow that catches the admiring eyes and hearts of passersby.

Step into the charming alleyway lit up by its vibrant lights and immediately feel a sense of nostalgia.

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by without taking advantage of all it offers.

Pencil-shaped sign at Neon Alley

Logan Bush / Shutterstock.com

Bring your camera along so that you can capture these magical moments!

While the beautiful illumination is something not to miss, take in all the flavors from nearby restaurants.

There’s nothing like experiencing diverse cuisines while delighting in the sparkling night sky views at Neon Alley.

Pawn shop sign at Neon Alley

Logan Bush / Shutterstock.com

Explore the Aspen Acres Campground

Aspen Acres Campground in Rye provides many things to do to keep you occupied.

The RV sites are surrounded by beautiful mountains and hidden in the woods.

There are roomy sites available for you whether you prefer glamping or camping.

The entire squad can stay warm during the evening in sleeper quarters, which offer a double bed and sometimes bunk beds.

You can use propane grills outside the cabins and enjoy some grilled marshmallows.

Play ladder ball, corn holes, and horseshoes at the spacious lush green.

You can play ping pong, pool, foosball, and various other board games indoors if that’s your thing.

Enjoy your time and hang out around the camp!

Visit Larga Vista Ranch

Are you ready to embark on a ranch tour that promises an unparalleled milk-tasting experience?

Step into the beautiful world of Larga Vista Ranch, nestled in Boone.

Under the careful and thoughtful management of the Wiley family since 1916, this property uses traditional farming methods and eco-friendly techniques to bring nature’s finest ingredients onto your plate!

Indulge yourself with raw milk, an amazingly delicious treat packed with nutrients like vitamins and fats.

Visitors praised the meats and eggs from Larga Vista Ranch as the best in Pueblo County.

During your visit, you can also enjoy the overlooking view of the Huerfano River and the beautiful mountain ranges.

Marvel at Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

An aircraft at Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

LanceBarber at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You can find Colorado’s biggest air and space museum in Pueblo City, Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum.

Spend time exploring the 85,000 square feet of exhibits and look at the military objects dating back over a century, such as trucks and missiles.

You will see the collections of enormous civil and spacecraft.

Let your curiosity take flight and explore the wonders of the Southern Colorado Space Museum.

Marvel at half-tracks, artillery pieces, giant explosives, and more.

These fantastic artifacts can inspire kids and adults alike; see why this museum is truly out of this world!

Roam DiTomaso Farms

Vineland is home to the well-known DiTomaso Farms, a farm that looks like a tropical paradise and produces excellent goods.

Visit some agriculture-related sites significant to the county’s growing economy to discover more about Pueblo County.

DiTomaso Farms has served fresh produce crops for over a century.

You can either go on a farm tour or drop by its very own Thomas Produce, the oldest fruit market in Colorado.

You can take the Pueblo Chile Farm tour and see DiTomaso Farms if you have time.

You can also visit ten well-known Pueblo Farms that can suit your leisure activities.

Go on a Fun Adventure at Pueblo Whitewater Park

Waters of Pueblo Whitewater Park

PEO ACWA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Go out for an incredible day at Pueblo Whitewater Park in downtown Pueblo.

Eight artificial waterfalls cascade over a half-mile of the Arkansas River in Pueblo Whitewater Park.

Along the park’s eight drops, each around half a mile long, you can engage in whitewater kayaking and even river surfing, both of which are wider and slightly more challenging.

Strong current and rough water flow will keep things exciting all through!

The staff will teach you everything you must know to enjoy it safely.

Pueblo Whitewater Park is also the gateway to nearby attractions.

Extend your adventure by strolling to the world’s largest mural, which spans the entire south bank with impressive paintings.

Soak up the fantastic routes stretching for miles to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

You will enjoy every second spent exploring the park.

Don’t pass up this enjoyable and exciting experience!

Practice Your Aim at Republic Shooting Range

Head to the Republic Shooting Range at Avondale and embark on a fun adventure!

You can have an enjoyable time at this variety of ranges, including pistol and rifle outdoor ranges.

There is a Tactical Airsoft Smokehouse where you and your friends can play friendly airsoft matches.

Enjoy a more challenging experience at the clay pigeon and shotgun ranges.

Take all that stored-up energy and spend it all on the Republic Shooting Range!

Journey to the Great Outdoors at Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness

Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness offers a peaceful experience and hiking trails within 23 087 acres in Rye.

For a remarkable journey through tranquility and remoteness, make your way to the southern part of Greenhorn Mountain.

You’ll be stunned by all that it has to offer!

From its peak, you can marvel at stunning views such as the Spanish Peaks and Pikes Peak and even gaze upon the vast Sangre de Cristo Mountains plains.

For those looking for something extra special, why not spend a night camping in this peaceful location?

Explore and have fun wandering from the great outdoors of Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness.

Bring Your Kids to Buell Children’s Museum

Exterior of Buell Children's Museum

Gerald A. DeBoer / Shutterstock.com

The Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center in Pueblo, which has won numerous accolades, houses the Buell Children’s Museum.

You and your kids can enjoy the museum’s interactive art, history, and science displays.

Children and adults still have a sense of wonder and adventure that are meant to be here.

The Reilly Family Gallery, home to several well-liked exhibits, frequently changes its interactive displays, so visitors always have something fresh to see.

Along with your kids, you can have an exciting experience here with lights, music, and films at a multi-sensory display that uses technology.

Children reading in Buell Children's Museum

David Shankbone , CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At the El Pomar Magic Carpet Theater exhibit, your children will delight in writing and performing in their theatrical performance.

If they aren’t interested in acting, they can sit back and relax while they watch a cutting-edge performance with you.

Spend time at this arts and crafts studio with your kids and create an incredibly fantastic craft to take home.

Loads of fun, knowledge, and adventure await you at the Buell Children’s Museum!

Interior of Buell Children's Museum

David Shankbone , CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Final Thoughts

The vibrant neighborhoods of Pueblo County draw a lot of visitors all year long.

Experience camping, hiking, and fishing along Pueblo’s picturesque byways.

Explore the best things to do in Pueblo County, Colorado!

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