Loveland

What began in 1984 with a group of five Loveland sculptors has since turned into a cherished local destination. The Benson Park Sculpture Garden, founded by George Lundeen, George Walbye, Fritz White, Hollis Williford, and Dan Ostermiller alongside representatives of the City of Loveland and Chamber of Commerce. After the first Sculpture in the Park show was held in 1984 with over fifty local artists participating, the city knew this local feature would be a hit considering that $50,000 worth of art was purchased. Guests are invited to walk through the park, enjoying works in bronze, stone, ceramic, glass, wood, and other materials.

Address: 1125 W 29th St, Loveland, CO 80538

Being home to one of the most iconic trails in Loveland, the Devil's Backbone Open Space is a great place to get out for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and generally just spending time outdoors. This 2,198 acre Open Space offers unparalleled views of Loveland, and hosts over 12 miles of connected trails between Rimrock and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. There is conveniently located drinking water available at the main trailhead, and outdoor enthusiasts who are visiting the park are heavily encouraged to bring plenty of water on their adventures. The park is open from dusk until dawn and has no entrance fee.

Address: County Road 38E, Phone: 970-679-4570

The Loveland Museum/Gallery is the only American Alliance of Museums accredited museum in the entirety of Northern Colorado, a prestigious recognition that less than 5% of museum nationwide receive. The Loveland Museum and Gallery was originally founded in 1937 by Harold Dunning, a local author, curator, mountain guide, and author. What began with Dunning collecting pioneer artifacts quickly grew into the collection that is showcased at the museum today. Aside from exhibits the museum offers poetry readings, programs for both adults and children, and historical exhibits focusing on the local area.

Address: 503 N. Lincoln Avenue Loveland, CO 80537, Phone: 970-962-2410

If you are traveling with kids:

Located at the most western edge of the regionally famous Longs Peak, Boyd Lake State Park is in the plains near Loveland and offers plenty of recreational opportunities to visitors. For lovers of water, there is boating, fishing, and swimming, while those who prefer to keep their feet dry can enjoy hiking, biking, hunting, and picnicking.

On the lake itself guests can use all types of watercrafts, from ski boats to canoes, sailboats, and more. There is a sandy beach that can be used for relaxing and recreation, and there is also a modern campground featuring 148 paved pull through sites.

Address: 3720 N County Road 11-C Loveland, CO, 80538-2307, Phone: 970-669-1739

The Chapungu Sculpture Park spans 26 acres and have over 80 different stone sculptures on display.

It is a permanent outdoor exhibit that showcases a traditional African family perspective, and throughout the park guests will experience eight universal themes. All of the sculptures were made by hand using stone from Zimbabwe and are all designed to help the viewer appreciate the importance of family in African culture. The park is free of admission prices and is open from 6am until 10pm, daily. The pathways are wheelchair and stroller friendly, and there are various events held throughout the year to highlight the importance of the Chapungu Sculpture Park.

Address: Sky Pond Dr, Loveland, CO 80538, Phone: 970-962-0011

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

Steeped in rich local history, the Rialto Theater Center is the perfect place to visit for theater and movie buffs.

The theater was originally built in 1919 and opened in 1920 with a showing of the silent film Zane Grey’s Desert of Wheat. Around the time of opening, ticket prices for the theater were a meager 10-35 cents per show, something that has certainly changed with time. In modern day, the theater boasts 446 seats in addition to disabled seating, as well as a state-of-the-art lighting and sound system. The theater likes to showcase its history, and every month guests are invited to watch an independent film. In addition to movies, the theater is available for rent, and often hosts nationally touring performers.

Address: 228 E. 4th Street, Loveland, CO 80537, Phone: 970-962-2120

As the name would suggest, Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is well known for its sightings of bobcats, as well as many other wild animals such as elk, mountain lions, wild turkeys, and more.

Visitors to the park are encouraged to use the natural land features to overlook the valley, and it is always a good idea to bring binoculars to the natural area to enhance viewing experiences. In addition to wildlife spotting, there are several historic homesteads that are scattered throughout the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area.

There is a large parking lot that is easy to access from the highway and a network of trails that wind their way through the area.

Address: 10184 Co Rd 32C, Loveland, CO 80538

A local favorite, the Grimm Brothers Brewhouse often finds its taproom full of beer lovers from both Loveland as well as the greater Colorado area.

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse sets themselves apart from other local breweries by getting back to the roots of beer making, taking their inspiration from the ancient beers that once filled taverns in historic Germany and Europe. They are a 10 barrel brewhouse that specializes in German beers, and guests to the establishment can take beer home in 22oz bombers, kegs, and even 12oz cans.

Address: 815 14th St. SW B100 Loveland, CO 80537, Phone: 970-624-6045

For quick access into the Rocky Mountains nearby to Loveland, the Pinewood Reservoir is a great choice for both day trips as well as overnight excursions.

The Pinewood Reservoir is located just west of Carter Lake and contains about 100 acres of water that is encompassed by nearly 330 acres of public land. The reservoir is at an elevation of 6,580 feet and offers access to fishing, boating, camping, biking, hiking, and more. Guests should be aware that camping spots often fill up fast, so reserving ahead of time is highly recommended, this can be done by phone or through the provided website.