In Larimer County of Colorado, Loveland is the perfect vacation spot for a laid-back getaway.
It has Denver to the south and Wyoming to the north.
The lovely community and laid-back lifestyle make it one of the most popular choices for a romantic getaway or a family trip.
Although you can visit Loveland throughout the year, the winters here are fierce.
The best time to visit is from April to August, with July as the warmest month.
Breathtaking natural attractions, fascinating museums, and restaurants serving mouth-watering dishes are some things that await you at this destination.
These are the best things to do in Loveland, Colorado:
In 1937, local author, curator, and mountain guide Harold Dunning founded the Loveland Museum.
It is an accredited art and history museum, one of the only three in the Northern Colorado region.
The museum has a brilliant collection of historical artifacts and exhibits that Dunning started in 1919.
Moreover, the Loveland Museum holds various art events that are extremely interesting and engaging in nature.
It also hosts classes for adults and youth and organizes events like poetry readings and programming opportunities for locals and tourists.
Montanabw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This beautiful park is the best place for a post-breakfast morning stroll.
Benson Park Sculpture Garden holds a collection of 172 sculptures by various artists.
The collection is worth $5 million and is permanently displayed year-round.
Montanabw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Since 1985, the Loveland High Plains Arts Council has organized the famous Sculpture in the Park event during the summer.
So, if you plan to visit Loveland during those months, do not miss this event at the Benson Park Sculpture Garden.
There is no admission fee to enter the park apart from the weekend of the show in August.
Tours are also provided to groups of ten members, but one has to contact them and book it beforehand as they are limited in number.
marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com
If you are looking for a day with fun outdoor activities with your family, Boyd Lake State Park is the place for you.
It is situated on the northern side of Loveland and is a favorite among locals.
As a family-oriented park, it is best suited for a day-long picnic.
marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com
You can go fishing and play water sports at Boyd Lake State Park.
The area also has 148 campsites and a 1,700-acre reservoir.
It has a swimming beach where you can relax on a natural sand beach.
Nature’s Charm / Shutterstock.com
Several facilities are provided to visitors, including food and beverage services, laundry facilities, handicapped parking, restrooms, and showers.
The site offers activities that include hunting, nature trails, ice skating, water skiing, and swimming.
Moreover, they also allow pets here as long as they’re kept on their leashes.
marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com
Melissa A. Woolf / Shutterstock.com
Hiking through the Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail should be on your list when you visit Loveland.
This iconic 6.9-kilometer trail is suited for hikers of all levels of expertise.
Rexjaymes / Shutterstock.com
Although it starts with a steep uphill climb, most of the trail is light, and one can take it with small children and pets on their leashes.
The view at the end of the hike will be worth all your efforts.
Rexjaymes / Shutterstock.com
Although drinking water is available along the main trail, it is advised that one carry their water in reusable containers.
There is no entry fee to enter the Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail.
Rexjaymes / Shutterstock.com
Hustvedt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
When the Rialto Theater was constructed in 1919, it was declared the finest in Colorado.
While it started with screening silent films, it is now the sole location for everything related to performing arts in Loveland, Colorado.
The theater has a total of 446 seats and features a state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment setup.
It also boasts a group of 100 volunteers who are constantly working to make it a finer place.
The Rialto Theater hosts different kinds of programs and events throughout the year.
You should not miss watching at least one performance while visiting Loveland.
If you are considering a romantic vacation with your partner, Loveland is the best place.
Sweet Heart Winery & Event Center is necessary for your couple’s trip to Loveland.
The winery on the West Highway hosts weddings and personal events.
They brew their wine locally and export the grapes mainly from California.
Their wine-tasting room is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Sweet Heart Winery’s world-renowned red and white wines are loved for their rich flavors.
If you are a wine lover, this place will be a slice of heaven for you.
Mehaffey Park is best suited for a family outing.
It has a pond overlooking the area, which adds to this attraction’s beauty.
If traveling with a big group, you must call them in advance and book a place.
There are only two areas for group picnics for parties with over 50 people.
These areas are only open for reservations only from Friday to Sunday.
The park also has two areas for dogs: the East is for small and shy dogs, and the West is for friendly and active dogs.
Mehaffey Park is also suitable for children as it contains a lawn with a climbing wall exclusively for kids, along with water fountains and a waterfall.
There are 244 parking spaces and restrooms, easily accessible and near both reservation spots.
Can you imagine a vacation without beer?
In Loveland, you don’t have to.
Colorado natives Aaron and Don started Grimm Brothers Brewhouse in 2010, the oldest in the area.
With a team of other natives and expert brewmasters, the Grimm Brothers specialize in German-inspired beers.
The taproom is open every day of the week, but their schedules vary.
They are famous for their collection of beers, the laid-back seating arrangements and ambiance, and the staff’s hospitality.
Grimm Brothers Brewhouse also holds small weekly events, such as Grimm Trivia on Mondays and Grimm Bingo Wednesdays.
Located in Centerra in Loveland, Chapungu Sculpture Park was built in 2007.
The park covers an area of 26 acres and has natural and picturesque gardens.
It features a collection of 82 monumental stone sculptures by Zimbabwean artisans.
The space is situated on the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and has stunning scenic beauty.
You can visit the park with your friends, partner, and family.
Although it is famous for its sculptures, flora and fauna around the area also intrigue nature lovers and people who love the great outdoors.
The authorities are known to host annual summer concerts and organize fundraising events.
Chapungu Sculpture Park can also be booked for weddings.
Situated at an elevation of 6580 feet, Pinewood Reservoir is located towards the west of Carter Lake.
This is the best place for planning an overnight camp with your family in Loveland.
At its center, you’ll find 100 acres of water; around it is 327 acres of public land.
The reservoir area has been recently remodeled, and it has both walk-in tents for the campers and electric sites.
Activities allowed on the premises include fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and non-motorized boating.
Pets are allowed at Pinewood Reservoir, and the area has ample parking spaces.
Tourists longing for some good coffee in Loveland can take it easy.
Their local coffee roaster, Loveland Coffee Company, is at 620 East 29th Street.
This place serves the best coffee in town and some of the best dishes.
Their caramel macchiato and quiche are among their top must-try menu items.
Visit Loveland Coffee Company for breakfast and enjoy locally roasted coffee.
If you are an art and architecture enthusiast, this place is for you.
Columbine Gallery offers its visitors various sculptures and other art forms.
The gallery has a team of painters, sculptors, and architects who work enthusiastically and collaboratively to make the gallery even more interesting for visitors.
Spend an afternoon at Columbine Gallery!
While in Loveland, you cannot miss a delicious meal at the local favorite Nordy’s BBQ and Grill.
They are widely famous for their hickory-smoked ribs and brisket.
The seating and ambiance offer a fantastic vibe, and the servers are amicable.
Your dining experience will quickly be enhanced when you notice that one of the best meals in town won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Satisfy your appetite at Nordy’s BBQ and Grill!
Doug’s in Loveland is a family-owned place that boasts a lot of local experience and history.
Every dish they serve is handmade and created with the utmost love and care.
Check out their breakfast menu while you’re there, and you’ll fall in love with the place immediately.
They have a wide variety of omelets and scramblers alongside some breakfast burritos and avocado toast.
Doug’s in Loveland also has a lot of sandwiches and burgers, so pick the one that best suits you.
Sharing a meal is a very transformative experience, so do it somewhere you’re sure you’ll have a great time.
Henry’s Pub is an excellent example of a traditional pub where people can meet while traveling or head after work to relax and mingle with others.
Everyone is welcome, and you’ll be greeted by a warm and lovely atmosphere and some fantastic dishes to keep you full and satisfied.
All the dishes in this pub are prepared from scratch daily, promising that everything is freshly made and delicious.
Visit Henry’s Pub and see what it offers a traveler like you.
Door 222 Food & Drink is located on 4th Street, and you’ll find some of the best dishes in Loveland there.
They have various pizza flavors, including mushroom, meat lover’s, and bacon.
Regarding the entrees, you can try out black Angus beef short ribs, fish and chips, or some seared salmon.
For dessert, go for their vanilla creme brulee or tiramisu.
Door 222 Food & Drink also boasts an extensive drinks menu with various cocktails and beers on tap.
It is a great destination to have fun during happy hour.
Loveland Chophouse, located on East 4th Street, is a 1930s-style restaurant.
It provides its patrons with a sophisticated and intimate dining experience.
The place has a traditional menu but also provides weekly specials to mix things up.
Some of their best dishes include the sea scallop, blackened tuna, and lobster ravioli, served with your choice of sides.
Make a reservation at Loveland Chophouse for a satisfying meal.
Pourhouse Bar and Grill is best known for their extensive menu containing dishes worldwide.
In addition to the delicious dishes, live music performances are held every night to make the experience more enjoyable for all patrons.
Their starters include fiery cordon bleu peppers, a nachos grande, and deep-fried cheese curds.
However, their top must-try dishes are specialty butter steak, barbecue ribs, and cowboy ribeye.
Once you’re finished with your meal, check out the drinks and dessert menus at the Pourhouse Bar and Grill.
Loveland Sports Park takes fun to another level.
This is one of Colorado’s best sports parks, featuring several amenities.
It has vast soccer fields and a spacious skate park that attracts visitors from other cities.
Likewise, its splash pad is perfect for families.
Shoot some hoops at Loveland Sports Park along North Boyd Lake Avenue.
Golfing in Colorado is a terrific experience, thanks to its unique geography.
Experience the beauty of Loveland and challenge yourself at the Olde Course at Loveland.
The well-maintained course has an exciting layout with many challenges for seasoned golfers.
However, it remains accessible to beginners.
Bring your friends to the Olde Course at Loveland for a golf day.
Fairgrounds Park is one of Loveland’s biggest attractions because it hosts various events and activities.
The park hosts festivities such as local fairs, farmers’ markets, and festivals.
For example, you can join the Corn Roast Festival, showcasing the community’s agricultural heritage.
Outside of these events, Fairgrounds Park is a vast recreational space famous for riverfront access to the Big Thompson River.
This park is along South Railroad Avenue.
Travelers to Loveland shouldn’t miss Loveland Laser Tag, one of the community’s best attractions.
Many visitors from other cities in Larimer County go there for fun like no other.
Loveland Laser Tag features arcades, bumper cars, climbing walls, and a laser maze.
The well-equipped amusement center also serves flavorful pizza and beer to heighten the experience.
This spot is along North Denver Avenue.
You can do many things at Boyd Lake Marina, such as trying water sports, relaxing, or taking photos.
Boyd Lake Marina is a famous marina in Loveland featuring boat and jet ski rentals for exploring the lake.
Besides, the marina affords visitors a scenic lakeside view.
People go there to socialize with the amiable locals.
Check out Boyd Lake Marina along North Country Road in your spare time.
olekinderhook, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located in northern Colorado, Fort Collins is also known as the area’s cultural hub.
Perfect for a side trip from Loveland, this city is only a 25-minute drive away.
Take a day trip to the locality, meet the locals, and explore Fort Collins’s beautiful attractions.
Page Light Studios / Shutterstock.com
The area has several museums for the art and history geeks in you.
It also boasts terrific scenery along the Cache La Poudre River Canyon, offering peace and serenity.
Several breweries have sprung up in Fort Collins, serving world-class craft beers visitors must try.
marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com
Greyrock is the most famous hiking trail in the region, and the view at the end of it is something to die for.
However, the most exciting and culturally significant part of Fort Collins is the Birney Car 21 Trolley.
A three-mile ride on the trolley from City Park to Old Town will take you back to 1919 when it was inaugurated.
Page Light Studios / Shutterstock.com
Relaxed and laid-back are great words to describe Loveland.
It’s a great getaway when the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life start to feel like a bit too much.
See the beauty of nature, take some time for yourself, and eat some good food.
Discover the best things to do in Loveland, Colorado!
Discover the world.
© All rights reserved.
