Indoor Activities

Colorado Indoors

Here in Colorado, we are lucky enough to enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year. Combined with our state’s incredible beauty, that means Colorado is comfortably in possession of some great outdoor activity options. But on those days when it’s raining, snowing, or you don’t feel like facing Mother Nature, Colorado also has some fun and exciting indoor attractions as well.

If You’re Looking for Family-Friendly Fun…

Trying to keep the little ones entertained when the weather isn’t being cooperative can be tough, but in Colorado, your options for fun are just as plentiful as if it were a sunny day. For active adventure, try an indoor ski and snowboard park, which can help kids learn to handle themselves on the slopes no matter what the time of year. Some popular ones include Shredder Urban Ski & Snowboard Park in Boulder, and Woodward at Copper Mountain Ski Resort. There’s also the tempting call of indoor amusement parks, like Bananas Fun Park in Grand Junction, or Lollipop Park in Centennial, which has indoor rides like a carousel, teacup ride, and train rides, as well as other fun attractions like a house of mirrors, a bouncy castle, and a snack bar. Look out for indoor swimming pools in your area as well, many of Rec Centers have kid-designated swimming areas and even waterslides.

If You’re Looking to Experience Nature Indoors…

So maybe you’re still trying to get on Mother Nature’s good side, even if you don’t want to be out in her backyard. Colorado has lots of indoor activities that involve nature, and you can check them out next time you’re in the mood. The Botanic Gardens in Denver have a beautiful indoor conservatory filled with tropical plants, winding walkways, and even some critters like frogs and birds. In Westminster, the Butterfly Pavilion is an incredible way to not only learn about butterflies, but also get up close and personal with them. The pavilion even offers low sensory mornings for visitors with special needs who might be overwhelmed by regular admission hours. Another great way to experience nature from the safety of an enclosed building is at the downtown Aquarium, located in Denver, where you can get up close and personal with lots of marine wildlife and learn about their habitats.

If You’re Looking for Action…

Indoor climbing and bouldering gyms can be found all over the state of Colorado, so no matter where you are and what the weather’s like, there’s an opportunity for you to train on a wide variety of routes of varying skill levels. Being stuck indoors is also no excuse not to be able to practice your moves for the ski slopes, no matter the time of year. SNÖBAHN Indoor Ski + Snowboard Center in Centennial and Woodward at Copper Mountain both offer year round indoor ski and snowboard opportunities, whether you’re looking for lessons or just need to tune up your skills before the temperature drops and the resorts open for the season. Indoor ice complexes offer a great opportunity to go ice skating or play hockey year round, and indoor swimming pools mean you can break out that bikini no matter the weather. At Spin City in Grand Junction, you can roller skate with friends or family to a loud and fun soundtrack. Looking for even more of a thrill? Try indoor skydiving at iFLY Denver, where you’ll float and soar on a column of pressurized air, or indoor go-kart racing at Unser Racing. For some all ages fun that will bring you back to your childhood (and most likely leave you breathless), check out Jump Street, where you’ll find over twenty thousand square feet of wall to wall trampolines.

If You’re Looking to Play Games…

Arcades are definitely a fun way to spend a rainy day or an otherwise boring evening. Grab a craft beer and get nostalgic as you play Pacman or Skeeball at The 1-Up in Denver, or try some new age Virtual Reality games at the VR Arcade in Breckenridge. For a little bit more of a mind workout, grab some friends and sign up for an Escape Room. These challenging puzzles test your ability to work under pressure as you work together to try and escape an enclosed space, and they’re offered all over the state, from Colorado’s biggest cities to some of our smaller mountain towns. Maybe you’re looking for a different type of game: the kind where the stakes are high and the atmosphere is electric. In that case, head on over to one of the many casinos in Colorado to try your luck.

If You’re Looking for Art and Culture…

There’s no shortage of museums in Colorado. In Denver alone, there’s the Museum of nature and Science, the Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the History Colorado Center, the Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, and the Forney Museum of Transportation, just to name a few. But there are also great museums all over the Centennial State, and they cover a huge variety of subject matter. In Durango, you’ll find the Durango Cannabis Discovery Center, which details the rise of the cannabis industry in Colorado and around the world, and educates visitors on the production and history of marijuana. In Silverton, the Mining Heritage Museum and 1902 Jail offers an insightful look at the lives of miners during the Colorado Gold Rush. For a different look at history, try the Summit Ski Exhibit in Breckenridge or the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame in Vail to learn about the Rockies as a ski destination and the rise of snow sports in general. And we haven’t even mentioned the art galleries in Colorado, where you can find incredible souvenirs and look at art, ceramics, jewelry, and other amazing visual creations made by both local and nationally recognized artists. Who knows? Looking at all these exhibits and art might even spark some creativity in you, in which case you might want to check out some of the painting and ceramics studios in Colorado, where you can create your own.

If You’re Looking To See How It’s Made…

Some of the incredible products and resources you use every day are made right here in Colorado, and many of those facilities offer tours so you can get a good look at exactly how they do it. Visit the US Mint in Denver to learn about the production of coins and money, or check out the Celestial Seasonings factory in Boulder to learn about how they make their world famous herbal tea. At the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour in Silverton, you can learn about production from a more historical standpoint, and see how miners searched for gold in the caverns they dug through the mountains. Then, of course, there’s the booze. Colorado is a major destination when it comes to craft beer, and many of the breweries throughout the state offer detailed tours of their brewing facilities. There’s Coors in Golden, which is undoubtedly the largest of Colorado’s breweries, but also other options like New Belgium in Fort Collins, which makes the popular Fat Tire amber ale, and other, smaller breweries which offer tours as well. (Most offer samples of their product, too!) Also make sure to check out some of the distilling operations in Colorado, like Breckenridge Distillery, or Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery, both of which offer great tours.

If You’re Looking to Relax…

Check out some of the amazing spas in Colorado, many of which are conveniently located in resort towns, so if you’re already on vacation and looking for a day away from the cold of the slopes, you’ll have easy access. Treat yourself to a massage, a facial, body scrub, or other treatment to rejuvenate yourself and feel like a whole new you. If you were hoping to check out some of the hot springs in Colorado, then you’re also in luck, because the weather doesn’t need to get you down. There are several indoor hot springs options, like the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center, which boasts the largest indoor hot springs in North America. For another unique way to relax, try a float studio, where you’ll float weightless in salt water with complete sensory deprivation to allow your mind to fully relax in a way like no other.

If You’re Looking to Watch a Game…

Colorado happens to be home to several professional sports teams, and some of those teams play indoors. The Denver Nuggets (basketball) regular season usually runs from October through April, and tickets to their games at Pepsi Center are pretty easy to come by. Also playing at Pepsi Center are the Colorado Avalanche, the NHL hockey team, and the Colorado Mammoth lacrosse team. But if you’re not in Denver, there’s also plenty of college and regional sporting events that take place indoors. For an exciting way to spend an evening, check the local calendar for events and tournaments, or seek out your area’s local roller derby team.

If You’re Looking to be Entertained…

Catch a live show, whether it’s from the Colorado Symphony or a nationally touring musical theatre production, from one of the many great performing arts centers in Colorado. Colleges, high schools, and community theaters put on some stellar productions throughout the year that won’t break the bank. On a similar note, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t check out some of the live music opportunities in Colorado; we have tons of great music venues, from dive bars to stadiums, that bring the absolute best in both local talent and internationally-known artists. For something a little more low key, take in a movie at one of Colorado’s theaters, where you can sit back with a big tub of popcorn and watch the latest blockbuster or independent film.

If You’re Looking to Shop…

While there are places to shop in every corner of Colorado consider a trip the the expansive Cherry Creek Mall where the indoor space is filled with a variety of shops. For those looking for antiques there are a number of different locals that have a concentrated series of antique stores making for a day of shopping around.

If You’re Looking to Enjoy a Meal or a Drink…

Restaurants in Colorado offer a wide variety of delicious food options. Foodwise, we’re particularly well known for the spicy green chile that is served both as a soup and also smothered over practically everything, as well as for Colorado lamb and bison, but restaurants in the Centennial state are much more diverse than that. You’ll find amazing burgers, steakhouses, seafood, and international offerings on the table, in a variety of environments from casual to fine dining. And make sure you wash that meal down with a fantastic drink. Colorado is an absolute mecca when it comes to craft beer, with more than three hundred individual breweries including four of the top 50 breweries in the country. We’ve also got some prime distilleries, so make sure to add those to your list as well. Relaxing with friends over a flight of beer, or savoring the taste of a mixed drink handcrafted from the best Colorado-made whiskey, is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend an evening, especially when it’s accompanied by a great meal and better company.

So this year when the temperature drops, or in the spring when the rainy season’s got you down, take heart in the fact that your day doesn’t have to be ruined. Colorado has so many great and fun indoor activity options just waiting for you to discover them.

South Park

South Park, Colorado

Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, South Park Colorado is a microcosm of Western history. From deep canyons to vast grasslands to snowy peaks and alpine meadows, this compelling basin is home to the nation’s highest incorporated town, gold mines, cattle ranches, and mountain passes. As one of only 49 National Heritage Areas in the United States, South Park offers a rare glimpse of pioneer life at high altitudes during the settlement of the American West.

This region is a landscape rich with heritage and attracts individuals who value Western authenticity. Some ranches have been operated for five generations by the same family. As they have for centuries, residents still depend on the land for their livelihood, recreation, and quality of life. As other places lose their inherent charm, South Park becomes a more engaging destination.

South Park Heritage

South Park boasts an array of nationally significant artifacts that reflect different aspects of this country’s heritage. The basin’s high peaks, clear streams, and copious wildlife embody the resources that sustained the native people and attracted settlers west. Hundreds of historic sites and structures still remain 150 years after the development of early mining, railroading, and ranching at 10,000 feet. Local events celebrate the lives of early pioneers in this area. Together, these resources and traditions evoke images of the struggle for prosperity that played out within the ring of mountains that define Colorado’s largest mountain park.

Park County Courthouse

Seven years after Fairplay became the county seat in 1867, the old Park County Courthouse was built of native sandstone in the Italianate style. Along with the adjacent stone jail, this building witnessed a parade of the famous, the notorious, and the ordinary. Known as the “hanging court,” decisions made here had a profound impact on Colorado case law. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it now serves as a public library and is one of 12 properties showcased in the Fairplay Historic Walking Tour brochure.

Boreas Pass Section House

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the Boreas Pass Section House was built in 1882 to house railroad workers on the Denver, SP & Pacific Railroad Highline Route between Como and Breckenridge. Next to the Section House, the 1860s Wagon Cabin was built when this route was a mere wagon trail over the Continental Divide. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these structures now serve as a visitor center and museum during summer and a backcountry ski hut during winter.

More About South Park Colorado

Perhaps you’re curious about the more modern attraction, the cartoon South Park. What does this area of Colorado have to do with the cartoon anyway? One can really only speculate on the subject. Perhaps these two places (one real, the other fictional) have nothing to do with one another. It’s just a mere coincidence that they bear similar names. However, it’s also possible that there’s more to it than mere coincidence. One similarity that stands out is that the historical South Park was outlandish, full of ironies and scandal. This is also true about the cartoon. Learn more about South Park, Fairplay, and Conifer, Colorado. Some interesting connections between them might satisfy your curiosity.

Highway US 24 Corridor

Transcontinental Highway of 1926 – US 24

U.S. Hwy 24 or Route 24 is one of the original transcontinental highways of 1926. Initially, it started at Pontiac, Michigan in the east and headed west, and terminated at Kansas City, Missouri. Today US 24 runs from Independence Township, Michigan at an intersection with I-75, and terminates at Minturn, Colorado at an intersection with I-70.

When the US highway system was started in 1926, US Route 24 in Colorado was called US 40S. This highway started in Grand Junction and proceeded west along the current I-70 route to Minturn. Then proceeded to the current route to Limon. From Limon, it proceeded to the Kansas border and was called US 40N. The US 40S and US 40N, west and east of Limon respectively received US 24 designation in 1936; however, in 1975 when US 24 was extended west from Kansas City, Missouri. The stretch between Grand Junction and Minturn was decommissioned.

Looking back on the naming and development of US Route 24 and how this transitioned into other major highways is confusing, to say the least; however, it does let us know that US 24 was an important highway in terms of western migration and the development of west/central United States.

Telegraph Road

Dixie Highway in Pontiac, Michigan, and Laskey Road in Toledo, Ohio, denote a section of highway that was known as Telegraph Road. This telling name came about before the highway even existed after the telegraph wires which ultimately ran parallel to the route. US Route 24 was the western edge of Telegraph Road that ran through Detroit. Mark Knopfler of the Dire Straits even wrote the song “Telegraph Road”, which is the story of the development and decay of this highway.

Fruita

Visit Fruita, Colorado!

Surrounded by dramatic mountain cliffs and gorgeous desert landscapes, this fun little town is dream come true for many adventure seekers. Mountain biking, hiking, Jeep and dirt bike trails cover the thousands of acres of public lands surrounding Fruita.

The historic downtown of Fruita has a laid-back feel and an easy walk-able core with many shops and restaurants to choose from. With convenient access from I-70 anyone driving past on the highway should consider a stop in Fruita for a bite to eat or just to break up the journey.

Fruita is just one of many West Slope Travel Destinations that are waiting for you!

Berthoud

Visit Berthoud, Colorado

Historically rich and Americana-steeped Berthoud, 45 minutes north of Denver, is nicknamed the “Garden Spot of Colorado” with good reason – a small community surrounded by rich farmland, it hosts annual events such as “Berthoud Day” in early June for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate family-style with a parade, music, and picnic.

The Annual Quilt Show

The town’s persona comes through in its annual quilt show and in its expanding sculpture exhibit in Fickel Park. Wildlife and outdoor themes mix with contemporary designs in a wonderful way.

While conveniently providing a gateway to mountain fun in the nearby Rockies, Berthoud also offers the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere of farmer’s markets, a town swimming pool, and vibrant arts community that includes dance and live theater – truly something for everyone!

Berthoud’s Location

If you’re looking for a smaller-town vibe, try visiting Berthoud. The cost of living is higher than the national average by 25.7 points. This is mostly reflected in housing costs. However, it does have a desirable location. Access to Estes Park and RMNP is just 35 miles away. If you like access to mountain lakes and reservoirs, this location is ideal. With over 20 lakes and reservoirs nearby and twice that amount a little further away. Deciding where to go will be the greater problem.

Berthoud has easy access to several state parks and nearby campgrounds. If you’re passing through or just want to get away for a few days. There is a large selection of state parks and campgrounds to choose from.

Vacation Planning Ideas

Colorado Vacation Planning Ideas

You're ready to do some vacation planning. You could use a break, and you've seen pictures of Colorado's majestic landscapes reaching 2 miles into the American sky. This is someplace you'd like to see and experience. It would take a few lifetimes to see, enjoy, experience, feel, and reach what Colorado offers. So, we're here to help you with your Colorado vacation planning and the best way to maximize your time while in Colorado.

Create Your Vacation Plan

With so much going on in Colorado, it’s best to identify your vacation passion and the passions of the group or other person you are traveling with. Here is a list of considerations to help you get the best Colorado vacation experience.

Summer Vacation Planning

What summer Colorado activities are a priority for you and your group? Start by identifying the primary activity and prioritizing from there.

- Perhaps your bucket list includes visiting an adventure park, a scenic train ride, a hot springs visit, zip lining, getting a hike or two in, and rafting. Wow, that’s ambitious but it can be done. Once again, staying in a region like the Royal Gorge area can serve this up. If you look closely, you will find companies that even sell combinations of experiences in one day.
- Suppose you're planning a backpacking trip. You would want to select a region, such as Rocky Moutain National Park, and stay there.
- If day hiking is more your thing, you will get the most hiking in by exploring a region rather than trying to travel all over the state, but some travel is realistic.

Are you planning to tour the state? Will you need lodging, or will you be camping along the way?

- Summer tourist season in Colorado is popular. If you’re planning on camping, whether in a tent or RV, you will need to plan ahead. Reservations at public campgrounds are necessary, especially during “peak season.”

Identify what “other” activities are important.

Check in with your travel companions and find out what activities they have in mind. You might find mutual interests or complete diversity. Knowing this will help you map your route and where to find lodging. Below are some activity suggestions.

- Check the Colorado Events Calendar.
- Consider a historical tour.
- Find a Farmers Market.
- Whitewater Rafting and Adventure Packages
- Jeep tours.

Winter Vacation Planning

Will your winter vacation be at a ski resort?

- There are 25 ski areas in Colorado and 32 Nordic Centers to choose from. First, understand your group's expectations. Then, explore the resort options for what they offer, the type of terrain, the expense, apres-ski activities, and more.
- There are other resort options besides ski resort towns. Many neighboring mountain towns have excellent lodging and dining choices and even more alternative things to do. Consider more out-of-the-way natural hot spring resorts.

Are all members of your group skiers, or are there snowboarders too?

- Suppose you’re vacationing with a mix of skiers, snowboarders, and ability level. It’s best to closely examine the resorts with terrain parks and a mix of blue and expert-level ski runs. The larger resorts will have the most options.

Does your group want to travel to different resort destinations or stay at a specific resort?

- If you want to check out different resorts, staying in the Central part of Colorado is the most efficient option, as all these resorts can be reached by car in a few hours. Or, skip the winter driving around, stay at a designated resort, and focus on your fun there.
- Download the Summit Stage app and ride the FREE Summit Stage bus in Summit County. This bus services the entire area of Summit County, including Silverthorne, Dillon, Keystone, A-Basin, Breck Transit Center, Frisco, and all places in between.

Is vacationing on a budget a concern?

- If budget-mindedness is part of your vacation, try planning your trip during the “off-season” or not “peak-season” times. Check out these every day, more affordable resorts. In either case, you should be able to find deals on lift tickets and lodging.

Are off-slope activities appealing, such as shopping, dining, spas, events, or alternative activities?

- If your group needs alternative activities, the bigger resorts will have the most varied selection. However, popular attractions like winter scenic train rides, natural hot springs, and guided tours such as snowmobiling or sleigh rides are not necessarily at the resort. Check out “other attractions” first and then decide on the resort to stay at.

Colorado's Endless List of Vacation Options

Colorado offers an almost endless list of vacation options. The first step is to understand if you want to tour around or stay in one place. Either has much to offer. However, touring the state will require more vacation planning. Please use our free vacation planning itinerary tool. This will help you keep track of the sights and experiences you don’t want to miss. Plus, organize your lodging and travel routes along the way.

Staying put at that special place in Colorado is also a good way to spend your vacation. With so much to explore in any given region of the State, it might make more sense for you just to find lodging in a favorite place and base all your activities on that location. In either case, feel free to request some of our free visitor guides, and use our free itinerary tool to help organize all the activities, keep the dates and times handy, and make your vacation more relaxing.

Lake George

Visit Historic Lake George, Colorado

The first Colorado Midland passenger train from Colorado Springs reached the settlement of “Rocky” in 1887. A manufacturer from Boston named George Frost constructed a dam at the mouth of Granite Canyon (now Elevenmile Canyon) and platted the nearby town of Lake George.

County Road 96 now follows the old Colorado Midland Railway grade through Elevenmile Canyon where locomotive residue can still be seen around railroad tunnels that were blasted through solid granite. Along the way are public campgrounds, picnic areas, bird watching pullouts, rock climbing routes and world-class trout fishing.

About Fairplay

Discover Fairplay, Colorado

The discovery of gold in 1859 brought thousands of prospectors to Fairplay, once South Park. Latecomers pushed west and established mining camps in the area called South Park. After several prosperous years, Fairplay became the county seat in 1867.

If your curious about how Fairplay relates to South Park and the modern-day sitcom cartoon South Park.
There are some interesting historical relationships and parallels that help shed light on the topic.

Today, Fairplay is the center of commerce for Park County, with a thriving business and vibrant local arts community. The many lodging, dining, and retail options reflect the unique character of this quaint mountain town. Surrounded by majestic peaks and pastoral beauty, Fairplay calls out to artists of all media, many of whom have made Fairplay home.

Fairplay Year-Round

Seasonal Events

True to its quaint mountain character, a variety of fun and colorful events are hosted, such as the signature Burro Days race, the Bead & Fiber Show, the free summer concert series and the one-of-a-kind South Park Arts Celebration. This four-day open-air celebration of nature, history, and art, capitalizes on the unusual abundance of scenic and historic sites that make South Park, including Fairplay, so captivating.

Winter

At almost 10,000′, Fairplay is an outdoor enthusiast paradise in the winter. Embraced by the Mosquito Mountain Range and minutes to world-class skiing, boarders and skiers alike can explore pristine backcountry or groomed resort trails. Diverse and interesting ice climbing terrain welcomes beginners and challenges experts. Additionally, snowmobiling and snowshoeing provide travel access to remote back-bowls and rolling terrain. Hunters thrive on a nearly year-round season, as do anglers, with fly-fishing in summer and ice-fishing in winter. Named the “Fly-Fishing Capital of Colorado,” anglers can expect to experience a thrill a minute. Fairplay is home to the award-winning Fairplay Beach, where one can cast a line, pan for gold, and even camp overnight – all less than a minute from Main Street and historic Front Street, where dining, wine-tasting, local art galleries, South Park City Museum and shopping entice.

Spring – Summer

Summer comes alive with bright wildflowers, lush meadows, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Outdoor adventures abound, from mellow strolls through the forest to challenging climbs—beginner trails to extreme single-track calls out to mountain bikers of all levels. Rock climbers and hikers can summit a myriad of 14,000-foot peaks. Take a horseback ride, ATV or off-road vehicle along 100-year-old mining trails. while in town a custom skate park is ready to put even a seasoned skaters to the test.

Alma

The settlement of Alma sprang up in 1873 when the Boston and Colorado Smelting Company built an operation there. At 10,578 feet, Alma currently is the highest incorporated town in the U.S. Listed on the State Register of Historic Properties, the 1925 Alma School is a rare local example of Mission-style buildings. It now serves as Alma’s Town Hall and is open to the public during regular business hours.

Also listed on the State Register, the 1936 Alma Community Church is a well-preserved stone church of the Rustic style. The 1871 Clesson Cabin was one of the first permanent residences in Alma. Contact Town Hall (719-836-2712) to arrange group tours of the town’s historic buildings.

Things to Do in Loveland, Colorado: Outdoor Adventures & Sweetheart City Attractions

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.

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