Cara Siegel is the marketing and engagement coordinator for Visit Pueblo and the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. We chatted with her to learn more about what makes Pueblo, Colorado, perfectly equipped for group tours seeking leisure and sporting experiences.
Q: How would you describe Pueblo to someone who has never visited before?
A: From the cultural diversity of food to the historic nature and urban development of new and past traditions, Pueblo continues to be known as the melting pot of Colorado. Nestled in the front range of the Rocky Mountains, the city thrives—not only on its year-round mild temperatures but also on its locally grown Pueblo green chiles.
Q: What makes Pueblo a great place for group tours?
A: Located just 30 miles south of Colorado Springs, Pueblo is located conveniently along Interstate 25, making travel easy no matter which direction you may be coming from. Whether it’s a stop at one of our local breweries to quench your thirst or a weekend escape to visit one of our countless museums, Pueblo offers a wide range of attractions for visitors year-round.
Q: How does your destination help tour operators plan their group tours?
A: Visit Pueblo can help tour organizers plan their trip by offering aid in terms of itinerary and agenda preparation, hotel blockings, welcome materials, and fantastic recommendations for food and drinks.
Q: Are there areas, themes, or activities you would like to promote to group tours?
A: The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk Downtown, Lake Pueblo State Park, Riverwalk boat rides, gravel trails, whitewater water sports, chile farm tours, and everything else green chile-related!
Late summer is when the city really thrives as it hosts two of its biggest events: the Colorado State Fair and the Chile & Frijole Festival. In late August, you can always expect the State Fair to kick off with an annual parade, then enjoy 11 days of rides, food, a rodeo, concerts, and so much more! The annual Chile & Frijole Festival is held the third weekend of September and celebrates the harvest season. The event revolves around rich agriculture and influence from fresh farm products, as well as live entertainment and over 180 vendors!
Connect directly through the Pueblo Visitors Center or the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce and we will put you in contact with who we see best fits your group’s interests.
Q: What’s your long-term outlook for group tours coming to Pueblo?
A: As we grow, I see the group tour industry growing! Day by day, there is more opportunity surfacing for Pueblo, and as we take care of and invest in the existing things that make us so great, the future is looking bright for our group tour industry!
Q: Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about Pueblo?
A: It’s no secret Pueblo packs some spice into every cuisine that the city has to offer. From your everyday lunch spots like Milberger’s to your 5-star steakhouses like 21 Steak, expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients and, of course, Pueblo green chiles. Groups can also follow our 2023 Spice Up Spring winner’s board. In this annual contest, we ask local restaurants to create their most iconic green chile-inspired dish in one of four categories: appetizer, entrée, dessert, and cocktail.
Being home to Colorado’s most visited state park has its perks, especially when it’s only 5 miles from Pueblo’s downtown! Lake Pueblo State Park remains the front-runner for best outdoor recreation and adventure in southern Colorado. Whether it be boating, camping, paddleboarding, fishing, birding, or trails you are after, this state park is sure to please. If your quest for major trails is still left unfulfilled, find your way to over a thousand miles of trails and paths throughout the city and county, including our most recent addition—the Levee and Mural Project. Don’t forget to reward yourself by finishing off the day at Brues Alehouse’s newly renovated beer garden. Enjoy a scenic view of the sunset over Pueblo’s Historic Arkansas Riverwalk while sipping a personalized craft beer flight or signature cocktail.
The Creative Corridor area is packed with galleries, museums, street sculptures, fountains, cafes, live music, and street performers that are all ready to challenge your imagination and inspire your visit. The Creative Corridor is focused around the three historic city centers of Pueblo: Downtown Main Street, Union Avenue Historic District, and the Mesa Junction. Each area retains its own uniqueness while providing an enjoyable stroll from one end to the other.
