Loveland

Welcome to Loveland

Loveland is an artsy and vibrant Northern Colorado community known for being the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and for its thriving sculpture community and many other artworks. Loveland was incorporated in 1881 and named after William A.H. Loveland, a railroad pioneer and president of the Colorado Central Railroad. The city's establishment is closely linked to the expansion of the railroad, which played a vital role in the early development of the area, fostering agriculture and trade.

Originally, Loveland thrived as an agricultural community, primarily known for sugar beets and cherries. By the mid-20th century, the Great Western Sugar Company had several processing facilities in the area. The cherry orchards, which peaked in the early 1900s, also became a hallmark of the region, and the annual cherry festivals were a significant part of Loveland’s cultural identity until the orchards declined after World War II due to disease and weather.

Points of Interest:

Loveland Sculpture Parks: Loveland is a hub for arts and culture, especially public art. The Benson Sculpture Garden is one of the city’s premier attractions, where currently, there are 178 pieces of sculpture on permanent display by world-renowned artists worth over $5 million. Each summer, the Loveland Sculpture Invitational attracts artists from all over the world.

Downtown Loveland: Downtown Loveland offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Fourth Street is a particular beating heart in this community, with terrific coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, bars, and boutiques. The Rialto Theater, built in 1920, is a notable historic landmark that continues to serve as a cultural venue for concerts, films, comedy and live performances.

Loveland Museum/Gallery: Established in 1937, this museum offers exhibits on Loveland's history and art, housing artifacts from Native American tribes who originally inhabited the region, as well as displays about the city's agricultural roots. It also hosts contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs. Upstairs is one of the most authoritative (if not dusty) interpretations of local water flows – a great way to get a sense of they layout of the region!

Boyd Lake State Park: For outdoor enthusiasts, Boyd Lake is a popular destination for boating, swimming, fishing, and camping. Its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a beloved spot for both residents and visitors.

Devil's Backbone Open Space: Located just west of the city, Devil’s Backbone is a striking geological formation and a great place for hiking and wildlife observation. The area offers stunning views of the foothills and is part of Loveland’s extensive network of open spaces and trails.

Loveland is also known as the “Sweetheart City” because of its unique Valentine’s Day tradition. Since 1947, the Loveland Valentine Re-Mailing Program has allowed people from around the world to send their valentines through Loveland’s post office to be stamped with a special cachet and a romantic verse. This tradition underscores the city’s reputation for warmth and community spirit. To have your valentines re-mailed from the "Sweetheart City", enclose your pre-stamped, pre-addressed Valentines in a large 1st class envelope to:

Postmaster
Attn: Valentine Re-mailing
446 E. 29th Street
Loveland, CO 80538-9998

In recent decades, Loveland has grown into a regional hub for arts, technology, and outdoor activities. The city's proximity to the Rocky Mountains and Denver provides residents with easy access to both natural beauty and urban amenities. Loveland has also seen significant growth in sectors such as manufacturing and health care, contributing to a diversified economy. Its population has steadily increased, though it retains a small-town feel.

World Population Review says, “Loveland has a 2024 population of 80,347 and is currently growing at a rate of 1.25% annually. Its population has increased by 5.21% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 76,366 in 2020. The average household income in Loveland is $97,443 with a poverty rate of 7.76%. The median age in Loveland is 40.4 years: 38.9 years for males, and 41.6 years for females.”

Loveland’s combination of history, natural beauty, and a thriving arts community make it a unique and welcoming city for residents and visitors alike. The views here are excellent and rival some of the neighboring communities! And don't miss the Corn Roast Festival!

Links of note relevant to this city:
Downtown Loveland: https://www.downtownloveland.org/

Loveland Chamber of Commerce: https://loveland.org/

Boyd Lake State Park: https://cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/boyd-lake-state-park

Carter Lake: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/49

Sculpture in the Park: https://www.sculptureinthepark.org/