Pueblo Celebrates Culture History and Culinary Scene with Colorado Tourism Office Funding Driving Visitor Growth

Published on November 26, 2025

The Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a $20,833 grant from the Colorado Tourism Office to boost tourism marketing and attract visitors to Southern Colorado. This funding comes from the state’s Tourism Marketing Grant program, which helps communities develop initiatives that highlight local culture, heritage, and attractions while promoting responsible travel and supporting economic growth.

The grant will help fund Pueblo’s involvement in the CTO’s “250/150” initiative, a statewide digital passport program celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood in 2026. The program invites residents and travelers to explore towns and cities across Colorado through themed events, cultural activities, and interactive experiences. By combining history, culture, and travel, the initiative encourages exploration while giving participants a unique way to engage with local communities.

With the funding, the Chamber will launch a comprehensive marketing campaign to highlight Pueblo’s distinctive cultural and historical offerings. The campaign will spotlight the city’s historic architecture, museums, art galleries, music events, and culinary scene. By emphasizing the combination of Pueblo’s heritage and contemporary cultural experiences, the initiative seeks to attract first-time visitors and encourage returning tourists to experience the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

Pueblo’s rich history and evolving cultural scene make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and diversity. Its historic districts and landmarks tell stories of the city’s past, while local festivals, music performances, and culinary events showcase modern community creativity. The marketing campaign will leverage these assets to encourage visitors to engage with the city’s culture, explore its neighborhoods, and take part in activities that celebrate its identity.

The Tourism Marketing Grant program supports projects that have the potential to increase visitor spending and strengthen local tourism economies. Grants this year, ranging from $20,000 to $49,000, were awarded to 15 organizations across 24 Colorado counties, reflecting a broad effort to elevate tourism statewide. By supporting Pueblo’s initiatives, the program ensures smaller cities can highlight their unique attractions and participate in statewide tourism efforts.

The “250/150” passport program adds an interactive dimension to Pueblo’s tourism strategy. Visitors can collect digital stamps by attending events, visiting local attractions, and participating in themed experiences across the state. This approach encourages travelers to explore multiple destinations, connecting them with communities and promoting cultural awareness. Linking Pueblo’s campaign to this statewide initiative helps expand its reach and emphasizes the city’s importance as a cultural and historical hub in Southern Colorado.

The grant also has clear economic benefits for the region. Increased tourism is expected to boost local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, retailers, and cultural institutions, while encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. By promoting Pueblo’s combination of history, arts, festivals, and culinary experiences, the campaign positions the city as a destination offering both authenticity and modern amenities.

Beyond economic growth, the initiative allows Pueblo to play a prominent role in Colorado’s statewide celebrations in 2026. By highlighting the city’s heritage and contemporary culture, the marketing campaign strengthens its visibility as a vibrant, must-visit destination. Digital promotion, strategic partnerships, and event programming will help attract diverse visitors and encourage them to explore the city and its surroundings.

Through this grant, Pueblo is set to elevate its tourism profile by combining heritage, arts, cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. The campaign will allow the city to attract new audiences, highlight its unique offerings, and reinforce its reputation as a destination that blends history with modern vibrancy. As part of Colorado’s broader tourism efforts, Pueblo is poised to showcase its cultural richness, drive visitor engagement, and contribute to sustainable economic growth across the region.