How to Live Like a Local in Pueblo, CO

Thinking about living in Pueblo? A longtime resident dishes on what it's like to live and work here.

By Rebecca Treon on April 25, 2024

Kevin Malella

Pueblo is a city that is experiencing a revitalization. For those who are thinking about living in Pueblo, this city offers access to the great outdoors, but it also offers a wealth of events throughout the year and boasts a vibrant downtown district, where locals can enjoy everything from authentic Italian food to the best green chile in the state. 

Daniel Minich, director of alumni relations and engagement at the CSU Pueblo Foundation, grew up in Pueblo and says he doesn’t have plans to leave anytime soon. In this conversation, Minich gives newcomers a run-down of the best spots to eat, drink and enjoy on an idyllic Pueblo day. 

What are some of your favorite things to do locally? 
I think one of the local hidden gems is the carnival-style rides at City Park. There’s a historic carousel, a train and some others. We have one of the oldest authentic working carousels in the country, and the rides are only 25 cents. It’s a great, inexpensive, family outing. 

I also love the Italian restaurant, La Forchetta da Massi. When I was in the culinary program at Pueblo Community College, I had the opportunity to intern there. The food is world-class for a smaller town like Pueblo, Colorado. 

I love Pueblo’s culture. There’s always something to do here, whether it’s the Chiles & Frijoles Festival, craft fairs or bar trivia nights. If you say you’re bored, the reason is that you’re not looking up what you could be doing that weekend. 

How about family-friendly activities? 
We have Movies in the Park during the summer. Pueblo has something like 70 parks and outdoor spaces, so you can go have a picnic in the park, go ride the rides and go to the movie (There’s always a theme, like superhero night). 

The Pueblo City-County Library has its summer reading program, All Pueblo Reads. They’re always doing family events, and they’re free. 

There is almost always a concert at Memorial Hall – they’ve really stepped up the acts they’re bringing in – and the Broadway Theatre League brings traveling productions to Pueblo. And, of course, we have the Colorado State Fair & Rodeo. 

What would you suggest for outdoor recreation? 
The Pueblo Reservoir is obviously amazing, to have access to such a big place locally. The reservoir is great for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, and there are a lot of trails out there. I love Beulah Mountain Park, too. There’s one road that connects over to Bishop’s Castle. The Pueblo Athletic Club is a locally owned gym that has a pool.