Loveland is the jewel of Northern Colorado, possessing all the amenities of an urban population center, yet it still has its small town charm, friendliness and welcoming atmosphere. Loveland has long been known as the “Sweetheart City” because of its Valentine Remailing Program. Every year, thousands of valentines are sent to the city where volunteers stamp them for remailing to sweethearts worldwide. However special this program is to our city, it’s the residents of Loveland who truly make Loveland “the Sweetheart City.”
There are many things to do in our Sweetheart City – everything from the arts, shopping, outdoor activities and many more.
Loveland is one of the top arts communities in our country. Receiving the Governor’s Outstanding Arts Community Award in 2008, and being highly rated in articles in national publications, legitimizes this claim.
With the Rocky Mountains as a majestic backdrop, Benson Sculpture Garden is unique in that it provides 130 sculptures for viewing in one location. Art prevails throughout the entire community and can be enjoyed while shopping and dining in our downtown or strolling along Lake Loveland’s scenic shoreline. The Chapungu Sculpture Garden at Centerra provides a different art opportunity where you can enjoy African Sculpture.
The second weekend in August is a must for art lovers as the City hosts the “Sculpture in the Park,” “Loveland Sculpture Invitational” and “Art in the Park” for a three-day event that brings artists and crafters from around the world to display and sell their works. Loveland is also thrilled to have many outstanding performing groups in dance, music, opera, and theatre with performances scheduled throughout the year.
Loveland provides many fine opportunities for recreation enthusiasts. Two world-class golf courses and a nine-hole golf course are available to the public. The Big Thompson River provides fabulous fly fishing. Rocky Mountain National Park is a short drive through the scenic Big Thompson Canyon. And we have more than 16 miles of biking paths that traverse along the Big Thompson River and through Boyd Lake State Park.
As a thriving community in Northern Colorado, we strive to provide a positive atmosphere where businesses can prosper. And a talented and dedicated city staff works to provide outstanding service to the business community.
We are strategically located in the triangle between three major universities, Colorado State University, University of Colorado, and the University of Northern Colorado. In addition, Front Range and Aims Community Colleges help to provide an outstanding post- secondary education. And, the Thompson School district is a leader in the state in K-12 education.
(source: City of Loveland website 2011)
