Positioned in the fertile valley of the South Platte River, near the confluence of the Cache la Poudre River, Greeley is a major city in Weld County, Colorado. Founded in 1870, Greeley was named after the New York Tribune's editor, Horace Greeley, who noted that the area would be a prime location for settlers. Greeley was incorporated in 1886, and today it serves as a trading center for agriculture, livestock, and oil and gas production.
Agriculture and education have been prominent in Greeley's economy and culture from its founding. The city houses the University of Northern Colorado, Aims Community College, and a campus of the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. Greeley has astrong Hispanic community, and it has provided a welcoming atmosphere for refugees from around the world.
Greeley has an estimated population of 105,477 as of 2020 and is the 12th most populous city in Colorado. The city has a total area of 24.5 square miles with an elevation of 4,715 feet above sea level. Greeley has a semi-arid climate with low humidity throughout the year, hot summer days, and cold winters. The city averages 18 inches of rainfall and 56 inches of snowfall annually.
Greeley is known for its numerous cultural events and attractions, including the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, the Greeley Chorale, the Greeley Theatrical Productions, the Greeley Conservatory of Dance, and the annual Greeley Jazz Festival. The city has a lively downtown area, with murals, outdoor patio seating, and entertainment. The Greeley Stampede takes place every June and features live music, carnival rides, a rodeo, and a Fourth of July parade. The Greeley Farmers' Market runs every Saturday during the summer and features local produce, crafts, and entertainment.
When in Greeley, some must-visit local attractions are the Greeley History Museum, the Greeley Downtown Historic District, and the Meeker Home Museum. Greeley is also close to several natural attractions, such as the Rocky Mountain National Park, the Pawnee National Grassland, and the Poudre Canyon. The city features a lively food scene, with local eateries serving various cuisines, including Mexican, Vietnamese, and barbecue. Greeley has two breweries, the WeldWerks Brewing Co. and the Wiley Roots Brewing Co.
In summary, Greeley, Colorado, is a thriving city with a rich history and culture. Its agricultural and educational roots have shaped its identity while offering various recreational and cultural activities for residents and visitors.