Loveland, Colorado Travel Guide: Skiing, Art, and Family Fun

Just 50 minutes northwest of Denver along I-25 is Loveland, Colorado. Loveland, not to be confused with Loveland Ski Area, is a vibrant foothills city that blends outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and heartfelt traditions. Known as the “Sweetheart City,” Loveland draws visitors year-round for its postcard-perfect scenery, charming downtown, and easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a base camp for mountain adventures, Loveland has something for everyone.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventure

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking things to do in Loveland, the city offers an unbeatable assortment of options. In warmer months, the surrounding foothills and open spaces transform into a playground for hikers, bikers, and anglers. In the winter, access to nearby ski resorts and Front Range activities is plentiful.

Loveland Colorado Attractions

• Devil’s Backbone Open Space offers scenic trails with dramatic rock formations and panoramic views of the Front Range.
• Boyd Lake State Park is a hotspot for boating, fishing, camping, and swimming, perfect for families looking to enjoy Colorado’s sunshine.
• Just a short drive away, Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park provide endless opportunities for wildlife viewing, backcountry hiking, and alpine exploration.

Loveland’s Arts & Culture

Loveland has a well-earned reputation as one of Colorado’s premier arts communities.

• The Benson Sculpture Garden features more than 150 unique sculptures in an outdoor park setting — a must-see for art lovers.
• The Rialto Theater Center, a restored historic venue downtown, hosts concerts, plays, film screenings, and community events throughout the year.
• Numerous galleries and artisan studios give visitors the chance to explore and purchase original works from local and regional artists.

Each August, the Loveland Sculpture in the Park show attracts artists and collectors from around the world, further cementing the city’s creative spirit.

Food, Drink & Shopping

Loveland’s dining and beverage scene offers something for every palate.

• Local breweries such as Grimm Brothers Brewhouse and Big Beaver Brewing showcase Colorado’s craft beer culture.
• For spirits enthusiasts, Loveland distilleries and cocktail bars highlight inventive, locally sourced flavors.
• The city also offers a mix of family-owned restaurants, international cuisine, and farm-to-table dining experiences.

In addition, downtown Loveland is home to charming boutiques, antique stores, and artisan markets, making it easy to spend an afternoon shopping and strolling the walkable streets.

The Sweetheart City Tradition

Loveland holds a special place in the hearts of romantics everywhere. Every February, the city becomes the hub of one of America’s most unique Valentine traditions. More than 200,000 Valentins from around the world are sent to the Loveland Chamber of Commerce, where volunteers re-mail them with a special cachet, postmark, and “Sweetheart City” stamp. It’s a beloved custom that has made Loveland internationally famous for love.

Lover’s Alert!

Couples looking for an unforgettable experience can get married on the ice at Blue FCU Arena, just before a Colorado Eagles hockey game — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to blend romance with hometown fun.

Festivals & Events

Loveland hosts exciting festivals and events throughout the year:

• Loveland Fire & Ice Festival – a winter celebration with ice sculptures, fireworks, live music, and family fun.
• Cherry Pie Festival – honoring Loveland’s historic roots as a cherry-growing region.
• Loveland Corn Roast Festival – a quirky late-summer event with a parade, roasted corn, live entertainment, and games.
• Art in the Park and Sculpture in the Park – showcasing Loveland’s artistic side with works from national and international artists.

Why Visit Loveland?

Loveland is more than just a stop on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park — it’s a destination in its own right. With breathtaking outdoor adventures, a nationally recognized arts scene, family-friendly recreation, and traditions rooted in love, this foothills gem offers a unique slice of Colorado that is both authentic and unforgettable.

Whether you’re carving turns at a nearby ski resort, exploring sculpture gardens, sipping local brews, or mailing a Valentine from the “Sweetheart City,” Loveland promises experiences that will leave you wanting to return again and again.

by Kathleen Fitzsimmons – Blogger and SEO writer for ColoradoInfo.com. Kathleen is a passionate Colorado resident who enjoys the many aspects the Centennial State has to offer, from the outdoor extremes to the eclectic people who make up the Colorado communities.