Quick Info
Best area: Near I-25 and downtown for convenience. Options: Chain hotels, some boutique options, camping at Lake Pueblo. Peak demand: State Fair (late August), Chile Festival (September). Budget: Generally more affordable than Denver or Colorado Springs.
Pueblo's lodging scene consists mainly of chain hotels along I-25 and near the highway exits. It's not a boutique hotel destination, but accommodations are clean, affordable, and practical. For most visitors, location near downtown or the interstate offers the best convenience.
Best Areas to Stay
Downtown/Riverwalk Area: Closest to the Riverwalk, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Walking distance to dining and nightlife. Limited hotel options but the most convenient for exploring on foot.
I-25 Corridor (North Pueblo): Most hotels cluster near I-25 exits. Easy highway access for day trips. Restaurants and services nearby. Best for drivers who want convenience.
Near Lake Pueblo: Fewer traditional hotels but good for those focused on outdoor activities. Lake Pueblo State Park has camping options.
Lodging Types
Chain Hotels: The majority of Pueblo's accommodations. Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta, Best Western, and similar brands line the I-25 corridor. Reliable, predictable, and often the best value.
Budget Motels: Several budget options exist for travelers watching expenses. Quality varies - check recent reviews.
Vacation Rentals: Some Airbnb and VRBO options are available, particularly useful for longer stays or groups.
Camping: Lake Pueblo State Park offers campsites with reservoir views. Reserve well ahead for summer weekends.
Peak Times
Hotels fill up and prices rise during major events:
- Colorado State Fair (late August through Labor Day) - book months ahead
- Chile & Frijoles Festival (September) - high demand weekend
- Major events at the fairgrounds or convention center
Book early for these periods or consider staying in Colorado Springs (45 minutes north) as a backup.
Tips for Booking
Check event calendars: Pueblo hosts events that can unexpectedly fill hotels. Verify nothing major is happening on your dates.
Book direct or compare: Chain hotels sometimes offer better rates when booking directly. Compare with aggregator sites.
Consider Colorado Springs: For more hotel variety or if Pueblo is booked, Colorado Springs is 45 minutes away with many more options.
Read recent reviews: Some properties have changed management or quality. Recent reviews tell the current story.
Ask about parking: Most Pueblo hotels offer free parking - confirm before booking.
Camping Options
Lake Pueblo State Park has over 400 campsites ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer weekends. The camping puts you right at the lake for early morning fishing or beach access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pueblo affordable compared to Denver?
Yes, hotel rates in Pueblo are typically lower than Denver or Colorado Springs, except during major events.
Should I stay in Pueblo or Colorado Springs?
Stay in Pueblo to experience the city fully, especially for food and local culture. Colorado Springs offers more hotel variety if Pueblo is booked.
Are there any boutique hotels?
Options are limited. Pueblo is primarily a chain hotel market. Some historic buildings have been converted but selection is small.
Is it safe to stay downtown?
Yes, the downtown and Riverwalk areas are safe for tourists, particularly during daytime and evening hours.