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Colorado Vignette - Historic Riverwalk of Pueblo

In 1842, El Pueblo Trading Post was built next to the Arkansas River. Within a few blocks of this original trading post is the new Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. You may relive some of this history at the El Pueblo Museum, just 3 blocks west of the Riverwalk. The El Pueblo Museum combines traditional exhibits with an opportunity to witness an actual ongoing archaeological dig.

In 1921 Pueblo suffered a catastrophic flood of the Arkansas River. This threat of flooding was eliminated with the construction of the Pueblo Reservoir in the 1970‚s. The river no longer ran through the heart of town. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk brings the beautiful Arkansas River Channel back to its original location providing a cultural and economic center for Pueblo.

The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo is a 26 acre waterfront park located in the heart of Historic Downtown Pueblo. Walking trails surround the restored river channel and bike trails lead all the way to Pueblo Lake. At the West end of the Riverwalk is Lake Elizabeth, a unique waterfront park and lakeside promenade. It is a natural for family fun, environmental education and home to waterfowl. fish and other water wildlife. The finishing touches are being made on several more special places. The boathouse is scheduled to open soon with water taxi service. Paddleboat rentals will be available on Lake Elizabeth. The high quality craftsmanship employed in the construction of this beautiful new project may be observed from the masonry work to the intricate ironwork on Victoria Ave., Main St. and Union Ave. bridges. The unity of design flows with the river channel from the natural area to Lake Elizabeth. World class signature projects include Kelly Falls located at the Victoria Ave. Bridge and the Farley/Reilly Fountain just west of the Union Ave. Bridge. The Riverwalk is open every day, all year and is free to everyone. You may shop the Historic Union Avenue District and dine at one of many unique downtown restaurants.

This is a beautiful addition to a Historically unique city and area. For more information visit www.puebloharp.com or call 719-595-0242.

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