The city of Greeley, Colorado, is a home rule municipality in the state of Colorado. It is the county seat and most populous municipality in Weld County, Colorado. As of the 2020 census, the population of Greeley was 108,795. This number represents a 17.12% increase since the 2010 census. In the last five years, Greeley has experienced a strong economy, fueled by its strong educational system and excellent job opportunities.
The city is 70 percent white and 30% Hispanic, with a small percentage of Spanish-speaking residents. While Greeley has a university and community college, most of its students leave for better nightlife in larger cities. Nevertheless, the city has a friendly, good-ol’boy feel to it that many visitors find appealing. Locals welcome visitors with a smile and are more than happy to help. The population is incredibly diverse and welcoming.
If you’re looking for culture and events, Greeley has you covered. Greeley is home to world-class museums, buzzing markets, and phenomenal viewpoints. If you have time, you can also check out one of the numerous free cultural events and attractions. Whether you are looking for a family activity or a romantic getaway, you’re sure to find something to please your taste buds in Greeley. You’ll be able to spend the day at one of the many breweries, wineries, and restaurants in the city.
If you’re looking for something to do with the kids while in Greeley, check out the Adventure Island Indoor Waterpark. The facility is open all year round and offers several thrilling attractions. The indoor waterpark has towering waterslides, wave pools, a basketball court, and a playground. There’s even a zero-depth pool where the kids can enjoy lazy river tubing. The best part? The water park is relatively inexpensive!
Although agriculture has long been a mainstay of the Greeley economy, the town benefited from increased demand during the Dust Bowl years of the 1930s. Increased demand for agricultural products and expanded access to markets helped the local economy rebound. Sugar beets and potatoes were the staple crops of early Greeley farmers. However, sugar beet production decreased and corn-based sweeteners took over. Today, farmers around Greeley also grow alfalfa, wheat, barley, dry beans, and feed corn.
While the temperatures are relatively mild in Greeley, there is still a risk of being a victim of crime. According to the FBI, the city has a slightly higher crime rate than 76% of other Colorado cities and towns. Even though winter temperatures are relatively mild, they can still reach a high of 15 degF (-32 degC). The first freeze typically occurs in October while the last one occurs on May 4.
The town’s name is a nod to its storied past. In 1869, it was called the Union Colony and was a “dry town” that prohibited alcohol. As part of the city’s Utopian vision, alcohol was not allowed, leading to the formation of neighboring Evans and Garden City. As a result, the town’s name was changed from Union Colony to Greeley in honor of the editor of the New York Tribune, Horace Greeley. During this time, the city thrived and prospered as a city centered around agriculture.