Neon Alley - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

If you're looking for things to do in Pueblo County, look no further than Neon Alley and the Steelworks Center of the West! Neon Alley is a vibrant community art space that hosts a variety of events, from local artist markets to live music performances. The Steelworks Center of the West is a museum dedicated to the history of the steel industry in Pueblo. Visitors can explore exhibits on the steelmaking process, the working conditions of steelworkers, and the impact of the steel industry on the city of Pueblo. And if you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy a bite to eat, both Neon Alley and the Steelworks Center of the West have on-site cafes serving up delicious food and drinks. So whether you're interested in art, history, or just want to relax with a good cup of coffee, be sure to check out Neon Alley and the Steelworks Center of the West!

Neon Alley is a historic district in Pueblo County, Colorado. The district is located in the Steelworks Center of the West, a former steel mill that is now being redeveloped into a mixed-use community. The name "Neon Alley" comes from the Neon signs that were installed in the district in the early 20th century. The district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2016. Neon Alley is home to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, bars, shops, and offices. The redevelopment of the Steelworks Center of the West is providing new opportunities for businesses in Neon Alley to grow and thrive. Thanks to its central location and unique history, Neon Alley is quickly becoming one of Pueblo County's most popular destination spots.

The best time to visit the Neon Alley and Steelworks Center of the West in Pueblo County, Colorado is in the summer. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the outdoor exhibits. Plus, the longer days mean you'll have more time to enjoy all the center has to offer.

1. Get there early if you want to avoid the crowds. Neon Alley opens at 10am, but if you get there closer to opening time, you'll have a better chance of getting a parking spot and avoiding the lines.
2. Start your visit at the Steelworks Museum. This is a great place to learn about the history of the steel industry in Pueblo County. The museum is free to enter, and it's a good way to get oriented before exploring the rest of the center.
3. Take a walking tour of the grounds. There are several self-guided walking tours available, or you can join a guided tour led by docents. These tours are a great way to learn about the different buildings and exhibits on the property.
4. Be sure to visit the Blacksmith Shop. This is one of the most popular exhibits at Neon Alley, and it's especially popular with kids. You can watch blacksmithsdemonstrate their craft, and even try your hand at forge welding.
5. Don't miss the Furnace Tower. This towering structure was once used to blast furnace gases from the smelting process. Today, it's open for tours, and it offers stunning views of Pueblo County from its observation deck.
6. Make sure to visit all of the shops on site. Neon Alley is home to several unique shops selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to locally made goods. It's fun to browse through all of the different shops, and you're sure to find something special to take home with you.

1. Neon Alley was founded in 2011 by entrepreneur David Pike.The name "Neon Alley" refers to the colorful neon signs that adorn the exterior of the buildings.
2. The centerpiece of Neon Alley is the "Pike's Peak Saloon." This historic building was originally constructed in 1859 and has been beautifully renovated.
3. The Pike's Peak Saloon is home to a variety of businesses, including a restaurant, bar, and museum.
4. The bar at Pike's Peak Saloon is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The bar offers a variety of craft beers, as well as locally-made spirits.
5. The Steelworks Center of the West hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including educational workshops and tours.
6. Neon Alley has been featured in several TV shows and movies, including an episode of CBS's "The Twilight Zone."
    

Neon Alley can be comfortably explored in 1-2 hours, while the Steelworks Center of the West will take at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy. 

The easiest way to reach Neon Alley is to take Interstate 25 to Exit 102 (Pueblo Boulevard/Belmont Avenue). From there, follow Pueblo Boulevard west for 0.4 miles and turn left onto West 11th Street. After another 0.4 miles, turn right onto Main Street. Neon Alley will be on the left-hand side after 0.2 miles. Parking is available on the street or in the lot behind the building.

There is no entrance fee to explore Neon Alley. However, there are fees for parking and for some of the exhibits and attractions. 

 Neon Alley is open from 10 AM to 10 PM Monday through Saturday, and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Sundays.