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While these two historic towns have their roots in agriculture, visitors will discover much more today. Greeley has fascinating museums and was recently named a Certified Colorado Creative District, and Loveland is one of the most vibrant arts communities in the nation. BENSON SCULPTURE GARDEN, EFRAÍN M. PADRÓ MORNING Like any good college town, Greeley has a colorful selection of coffee shops, serving residents and University of Northern Colorado students. Hit the streets, where, as part of a Historic Preservation Commission walking tour, you’ll learn about the city’s East Coast-inspired layout with wide, tree-lined avenues and central parks. Greeley’s museums offer glimpses into the lives of the town’s celebrated historical characters, such as Rattlesnake Kate, who hunted 140 rattlesnakes and then sewed a rattlesnake-skin outfit, complete with headband and shoes. See the strangely fascinating rattlesnake dress at the Greeley History Museum. COLORADO MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM, CITY OF GREELEY. Peek into the lives of more average settlement-era citizens at the Centennial Village Museum, an eight-acre outdoor living history museum with more than 30 vintage homes and structures. Get friendly with cowboys and miniature farm animals in the interactive atmosphere. Nearby, railroad buffs can marvel at more than 600 railroad artifacts, 20 scale miles of track and hundreds of miniature buildings at the Colorado Model Railroad Museum (2) at the Greeley Freight Station. Throughout your visit, you’ll find more than 50 pieces of public art sprinkled around Greeley, as well as lovely parks that feature lakes, small streams, bridges, waterfalls and islands. Homestead Park and Open Space has walking paths, a playground and public art, including artist Joshua Wiener’s Rain Symphony sculpture inspired by the city’s sophisticated water system. AFTERNOON Point your compass west to Loveland, a community committed to the arts. Spend time at Benson Sculpture Garden (1), featuring 148 sculptures. The park’s annual shows are two of the largest outdoor art exhibitions in North America. LOVELAND MUSEUM AND GALLERY, FLICKR/JEFF MEYER Head downtown, where charming blocks showcase historic buildings, shops and restaurants, and the beautiful art the city is known for. Visit the Loveland Museum/ Gallery (3) to see all of the stamps used in the Loveland Valentine Re-Mailing Program; stop by the famous post office from where all of those love letters are forwarded, an Art-Moderne style edifice built in 1937. EVENING Door 222 food & drink pairs delicious tapas with local draft beers — don’t miss the chicken and waffles. Next door, see what’s going on at the Rialto Theater, built in 1919 and once hailed as “the finest theater north of Denver.” Or check out NoCo Short Bus Tours to experience the exclusive beers that northern Colorado breweries have to offer. For a fitting end to the day, admire Mother Nature’s contribution to the town’s public art program: The splendor of the sun setting over Lake Loveland, right in the middle of town. STAY & PLAY OPTIONS Greeley (page 206), Loveland (page 208), Platteville (page 211), Windsor QUICK TIP For a low-key evening of food, cocktails and first-run and indie movies, head for Greeley’s all-in-one Kress Cinema & Lounge.
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