Historic Arkansas Riverwalk - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. It is a great place to walk, run, or just enjoy the scenery. The Riverwalk is a part of the city's history, and it is a great place to learn about the area's past. The Riverwalk runs through the heart of downtown Pueblo, and it is a great place to people watch. There are also many restaurants and shops along the Riverwalk, so you can stop and grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs.

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Things to Do at Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk in Pueblo County, Colorado is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in some history. The riverwalk stretches for over five miles along the banks of the Arkansas River, and there are plenty of things to do along the way. Visitors can go for a walk or bike ride, fish from the riverbank, or paddle down the river in a kayak or canoe. There are also several museums and art galleries to explore, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous day out, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk has something for everyone.

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History of Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a project that began in 1987 to revitalize downtown Pueblo. The project created a 12-footwide pedestrian walkway along the Arkansas River, from 3rd Street to the confluence of the Fountain and Arkansas Rivers. The Riverwalk features scenic views, public art, fountains, statues, plazas, intuitive gardens, an amphitheater, and several restaurants. It is also home to the children's museum and the Steelworks Museum of Industry and Culture. The Riverwalk has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and has helped to revitalize downtown Pueblo.

Best Time to Visit Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is particularly popular in the summer months when its many gardens are in full bloom. However, it is truly a beautiful place to enjoy any time of year. 

Tips for Visiting Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

  1.  The Spanish Colonial Revival style Visitor Center is worth a visit itself and has interactive exhibits on the area's history and culture.
  2.  From the Visitor Center, take a leisurely stroll along the RiverWalk past themed gardens, sculptures, and public art installations.
  3. Stop by the El Pueblo History Museum to learn about the early days of Pueblo when it was a trading post on the Santa Fe Trail.
  4. For a bite to eat, there are several restaurants with outdoor seating overlooking the river. Or pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic parks along the way.
  5.  For something truly unique, try your hand at Wakeboarding at Lake Elizabeth - one of only two in-town lagoons in the U.S. with this activity! 
  6.  To get active, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waterway up close. You can also go fishing if you have a license (catch and release only).
  7. Take a guided tour. Guided tours are available for a small fee and provide an enlightening look at the Riverwalk and its history.
  8. Eat at one of the many restaurants. There are over 30 restaurants along the Riverwalk, so there is sure to be something to everyone's taste.
  9. Plan your visit in advance. Check the Riverwalk website for hours of operation and special events.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

  1. Completed in 2002, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a linear park that follows the Arkansas River through downtown Pueblo. The Riverwalk spans over 4 miles and features a number of attractions, including an amphitheater, museums, and gardens.
  2. A key feature of the Riverwalk is its multi-use trail, which is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists.
  3. The Riverwalk is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including the chokecherry festival and the holiday lighting ceremony.
  4.  In addition to its many public amenities, the Riverwalk also provides important environmental benefits.
  5. By creating a green space along the river, the Riverwalk helps to reduce water pollution and improve water quality.
  6.  The Riverwalk has also been credited with revitalizing downtown Pueblo, attracting new businesses and residents to the area.
  7. In 2015, a section of the Riverwalk was transformed into an art gallery featuring works by local artists. 
  8. The site of the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk was once used as a dumping ground for trash and sewage. Today, it is home to diverse species of wildlife, including herons, ducks, geese, and bald eagles. 
  9. There are several event spaces located along the Riverwalk, making it a popular venue for weddings and other celebrations.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

With so much to see and do, four hours is just enough time to get a taste of everything the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk has to offer.

How to Reach Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

 For those coming from Denver, take I-25 south to exit 102. From Santa Fe, take I-25 north to exit 114. Both exits will lead you onto US Highway 50, which crosses the Arkansas River into Pueblo. Once in Pueblo, follow signs to the Riverwalk. There is also a free shuttle that runs between downtown Pueblo and the Riverwalk during the summer months. 

Entrance Fee of Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

There is no entrance fee to explore this location. parking is available at metered spots along the Riverwalk or in the nearby garage. 

Opening Hours of Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is open from sunrise to sunset every day, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. during the winter months (November-February), the hours are slightly shorter, from 10 AM until 4 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Riverwalk is also open for special events from 6 PM until 10 PM. 

Attractions Near Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Union Avenue Historic Commercial District

Union Avenue Historic Commercial District

0.16km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Union Avenue Historic Commercial District in Pueblo, is a collection of over 60 commercial buildings that were constructed between 1880 and 1950. The district includes a variety of architectural styles, including Italianate, Art Deco, and Neo-Classical. Many of the buildings in the district are still in use today, housing businesses such as restaurants, shops, and offices. The Union Avenue Historic Commercial District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

El Pueblo History Museum

El Pueblo History Museum

0.24km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

El Pueblo History Museum is a history museum in Pueblo County, Colorado. The museum chronicles the history of the area from the early 1800s to the present day. Exhibits includes a variety of topics such as the American frontier, the American Indian Wars, and the expansion of the United States westward. The museum also has a research library and archive that contains a wealth of information on the history of Pueblo County and the surrounding region.

Veterans' Bridge

Veterans' Bridge

0.29km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Veterans' Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Arkansas River. It was built in 1932 and is named for the veterans of World War I. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, with an average of 2 million visitors each year. The bridge has a total length of 1,550 feet and a width of 20 feet. The main span of the bridge is 876 feet long, and the towers are 200 feet tall. The Veterans' Bridge is open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic only.

Neon Alley

Neon Alley

0.4km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Neon Alley is located in the Steelworks Center of the West in Pueblo County, Colorado. The alley is home to a number of local businesses, including a boutique, a coffee shop, and a bar. The businesses in the alley are illuminated by a number of colorful neon signs, which give the area its name. Neon Alley is also home to a number of art installations, including a mural by artist Phillip K Christopher. The mural depicts scenes from the steel industry in Pueblo County.

Pueblo Railway Museum

Pueblo Railway Museum

0.51km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Pueblo Railway Museum is a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon in Pueblo. The museum is located in the historic Union Depot, and it features a variety of exhibits on the history of railroads in the American West. Visitors can learn about the construction of the transcontinental railroad, see a replica of a steam engine, and even take a ride on a real locomotive. The museum also has a gift shop, and it is situated near several other attractions in downtown Pueblo.

Buell Children's Museum

Buell Children's Museum

0.68km from Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

The Buell Children's Museum is a place where children can explore, discover and learn. The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including science, art, history, and culture. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of hands-on activities, such as painting, pottery and crafts. It also offers a variety of educational programs for children of all ages. Whether they are exploring the exhibits or participating in a program, children will have plenty to do at the Buell Children's Museum.

Discover More Attractions in Pueblo County, Home of Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Pueblo County

Pueblo County

25 attractions

Pueblo County is located in southern Colorado, about an hour's drive from both Denver and Colorado Springs. The county seat is the city of Pueblo, which is home to the state's largest steel mill. The county is also home to a number of historic sites, including the site of the Battle of Glorieta Pass and the San Carlos Apache Prison. Pueblo County is a popular tourist destination, due to its wide range of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy hiking and camping in the county's many parks

Location of Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

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