Rich in history, beauty, and entertainment, the Pueblo Riverwalk is the cultural cornerstone of downtown Pueblo, Colorado. The mile-long channel runs through the center of town along the Arkansas River.
Restaurants, bars, and shops line the streets around it, providing an opportunity to eat, drink, and rest before exploring the 54 pieces of art that dot the Riverwalk’s paved walkways. It’s open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, and is always free to the public. Walk your dog, take a stroll, and see everything downtown Pueblo has to offer.
History
Pueblo was founded in the mid-1800s near the confluence of Fountain Creek and the Arkansas River. Bolstered by the emerging steel industry and railroad expansion, Pueblo was renowned for its saddle-making and was considered a well-developed city on the rise.
The floods of 1921 changed all that. One-third of the downtown buildings were lost, and the river was diverted to Pueblo Reservoir to prevent future flooding. In recent years, the riverbed was excavated, the river again rerouted, and downtown Pueblo refurbished to the beautiful city it is today.
A trip to the Pueblo Riverwalk might only last a day or a weekend, but the memories made here will last a lifetime.
Shop and Dine
From sushi bars to pizza palaces to drinks-only lounges, downtown Pueblo has something for everyone. Enjoy a quick snack on an outdoor patio, or stop in for a steak at a fine dining restaurant before heading back out to the Riverwalk.
Discover boutique shops selling one-of-a-kind handmade goods from Pueblo locals, pick up a laser-engraved gift for your special someone, or get your nails painted at a salon just blocks from the river. Whatever your tastes or budget, Pueblo has something that will make you smile.
Attractions
The Pueblo Riverwalk offers year-round attractions and events that are fun for the whole family. 54 outdoor sculptures decorate the walkway, adding dramatic beauty to the natural surroundings. More are being added all the time, giving the Riverwalk the feel of an outdoor art museum.
Boats are common on the river during warm weather months. Enjoy a 25-minute excursion boat tour complete with narrated history of the Riverwalk. Prefer something more private? Book a gondola ride for two and serenade your sweetheart down lazy waters.
Pedal boats hold up to 4 people, making it the perfect group outing for friends and family. Dinner cruises and private boat tours are available upon request. Canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards are welcome with a small registration fee.
Events
Scheduled events take place throughout the spring, summer, fall, and winter. Movies on the River begin in June and go through August. Their July 4th Celebration draws huge crowds, providing a spectacular fireworks display along with family entertainment.
Trick-or-treating and holiday light shows begin in October and carry through the holiday season. There are plenty of events to choose from, and most of them are free.
Veterans’ Bridge
Conceived in 2005, the $1.6 M Veterans’ Bridge did not reach completion until 2010. It is the only monument in the United States to recognize all branches of military service in one place. Over 7,000 names are displayed on the bridge, honoring the men and women who have served our country so well.
Also included are the names of Pueblo’s 4 medal of honor winners, the state flag of Colorado, the United States flag, and the seals from each of the 5 military branches. Walk the bridge with your family and pay your respects to America’s veterans.
Details
Address: 101 N Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: 719-595-0242
Season: Year round
Length: 1 mile
Cost: Free
Website: puebloriverwalk.org