With so many wonderful locations to choose from, deciding where to live in the state of Colorado is no easy task! Allow us to make your decision easier by introducing you to Pueblo. Who wouldn’t consider moving to a city located 40 minutes southeast of Colorado Springs, oozing cosmopolitan character, friendly vibes and sunshine? “Steel City” has grown around its soon-to-be wind and solar powered steel mill since the early twentieth century, resulting in one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in Colorado. Need more convincing? Here are ten reasons to make the city of Pueblo your home.
The Fantastic Weather
Yes, Pueblo may be in the desert, but did you know the city experiences four, distinct seasons? Unlike many other desert climes, upwards of 300 days are sunny per year, without the extreme heat. Winter days are usually mild, snowfall usually falls in light amounts, and thanks to the high-altitude sun, rarely remains on the ground for long. Bring on the sunshine and serotonin!
The Blissfully Low Cost of Living
How can anyone ignore the great value available in Pueblo’s housing market? Of all major cities in Colorado, Pueblo has the least expensive residential real estate. Add to this the fact that the city has lower than national average rental prices, goods and services, utilities, transportation, groceries and health care and you have an extremely affordable location to live and raise a family.
Pueblo City Park
Covering a massive 157 acres of land, Pueblo City park has picnic tables and roads for walking and biking, a swimming pool open for the summer, fishing ponds, a skate park, frisbee golf course and more! The park is also home to Pueblo Zoo, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility, open year-round and home to more than 500 animals representing 125 different species from around the world. A remarkable asset for residents of Pueblo to have right on their doorstep.
The Pueblo Riverwalk
A sparkling gem in the heart of Pueblo, this 32-acre urban waterfront boasts boat rides, shopping, dining, coffees and cocktails all surrounded by beautiful scenery. Art is showcased along the river’s banks, and June to September brings the added delight of a Farmer’s Market and Movie Nights on the River. Fancy a stroll?
The Arts and Culture
If it’s arts and culture you’re after, look no further than the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center. Located in downtown Pueblo, the center features the talents of the Sangre de Cristo Ballet along with many other music, dance and arts dominated productions. Home of the Steel City Theatre Company and the Pueblo Symphony, Pueblo has a wealth of cultural shows to savor and enjoy.
A Feast of Flavours
With cultural diversity comes a plethora of delicious food! From hole-in-the-wall burger joints to the abundance of ethnic cuisines, Pueblo’s dining spots offer variety in abundance. And have you experienced the world-famous Pueblo chile? Many of the restaurants in Pueblo have integrated the locally-grown chiles into their menus, tantalising the taste buds of locals and those drawn to the heat from far and wide!
Colorado State University – Pueblo
CSU – Pueblo is the public university in Pueblo and a huge part of the local community. CSU- Pueblo has a fantastic range of academic programs along with a growing athletic reputation. We LOVE college football in Pueblo! The ThunderWolves are 2014 Division two National Championship winners and a huge influence in the local community. Go ThunderWolves!!!
The Golf
Colorado’s best golfing option is easily the 4-star rated Walking Stick Golf Course. An 18-hole par-72 course that ticks all the right boxes. Whether it’s from the tee or the restaurant, the putting green or the pro shop, Walking Stick Golf Course has something for both the budding amateur and the Masters champion. But why stop there? The city owned Elmwood Golf Course is a par-70 18-hole course with a 9-hole par-30 for those with a little less time to tread the fairway.
Lake Pueblo State Park
If golf doesn’t float your boat, how about Kayaking, fly fishing, hiking or biking across Lake Pueblo State Park? With a lake surface of over 4,600 acres, 60 miles of shoreline and 10,000 acres of land, there’s plenty of space to spend your days enjoying whatever it is you love!
The Festivals
Bring on the chile and fried beans! Loaf ‘N Jug’s Chile and Frijoles Festival (featuring live music plus 5K and 10K walks) is held annually, attracting over 100,000 fun loving chile aficionados. But it doesn’t stop there! The Colorado State Fair is held annually in Pueblo, as well as the Steel City Brew Fest and the brilliant Boats, Bands and BBQ Festival.
So, what are you waiting for? Come and join us in Colorado!
It’s Pueblo time!
Featured Image: The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo in Pueblo, Colorado. Jeffrey Beall [CC BY]