By Randy Robinson
A blue-collar, working class town like Pueblo is bound to have some of the most down-home, friendly watering holes in Colorado. After cruising around the area, get your fill of beer, wine, or spirits at some of these favorite spots.
Eiler’s Place
For the locals’ bar experience, complete with bar games, but with an ever-inviting atmosphere, Eiler’s Place is it. They’ve been in business in Pueblo since 1933 for a reason: the coldest brews in town. Whether just passing through or staying a while, this bar will make just about anyone feel right at home. And I mean that literally, as Eiler’s Place is located on a corner smack-dab in the center of a suburb.
326 E Mesa Avenue
Pueblo, CO 81006
(719) 583-0540
Smitty’s Green Light Tavern
Another drinking hole that’s been around since 1933, Smitty’s is equal parts bar and nightclub, one of Pueblo’s most hoppin’ spots during the weekends. They’ve got live DJs, bands, and some of the most bangin’ holiday parties. Check out their Panic Hour for killer drink specials.
227 N Santa Fe Avenue
Pueblo, CO 81003
(719) 543-2747
www.facebook.com/GLtavernf
Gray’s Coors Tavern
Where the heck else in Colorado can you get Tex-Mex food served with Indian appetizers and an assortment of beers and mixed drinks? You’ll find sopapillas, tamales, and fried naan at Gray’s Coors Tavern, though they’re best known for their sloppers, a messy but scrumptious dish that draws visitors from all over the state.
515 W 4th Street
Pueblo, CO 81003
(719) 544-0455
www.facebook.com/grayscoorstavern/
J. Michael’s Union Avenue Pub
J. Michael’s is the quintessential jam pub: throughout the week, they host live performances from Pueblo’s most talented local musicians. The beers and spirits are fairly standard fare, but folks come to J. Michael’s for more than just the drinks; they come for the atmosphere, for the music, and for the experience.
325 S Union Ave
Pueblo, CO 81003
(719) 696-9703
jmichaelspueblo.com
Wine Down by the River
An assortment of great wines, cheese plates, and other food stuffs made to match with cask-aged vino. Wine Down by the River offers a pleasant riverside environment while enjoying glasses of some of the best merlots, chardonnays, syrahs, sauvignons, and pinots Pueblo has to offer.
105 S Union Ave
Pueblo, CO 81003
(719) 696-8909
winedownbytheriver.com