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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. 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 tours and Brown Bag Series, you’ll learn about the city’s neighborhoods, historic sites and architecture. Stop by the Colorado Model Railroad Museum (3), which features more than 600 railroad-related artifacts ranging from a Virginia and Truckee Railroad switch key to a full-size Colorado and Southern wooden caboose available for examining both inside and out. Or take a swing along the Poudre Learning Center along the Poudre River Trail, with beautiful views, easy hiking trails and access to the Cache la Poudre River, catch-and-release fishing and wildlife viewing. The center has a system of barrier-free, wheelchair-accessible pathways and learning areas. 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. AFTERNOON Point your compass west to Loveland, a community committed to the arts. Spend time at Benson Sculpture Garden (1), featuring 148 sculptures. Go to cityofloveland.org/bsgtour for an audio tour of this special site. Head downtown, where charming blocks showcase historic buildings, shops and restaurants,and the beautiful art the city is known for. At Your Pace has recently launched two perfect ways to explore Loveland: Bike & Brews and Art by Bike are two tours that lead you to the city’s highlights. Or, stop by the Loveland Visitor Center to pick up the Passport to Love • Beer • Culture. Fill your passport up with enough stamps and you’ll get a free T-shirt or pint glass. EVENING Door 222 Food & Drink pairs delicious tapas with local draft beers. Or head to Mo’Betta Gumbo for some moonshine and Cajun cuisine — we recommend the Slap Yo’ Mama Loaf! Another option is Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch’s (2) dinner horseback rides (or anytime rides), which come with a trek to beautiful to Eagle Ridge. Or, back in Greeley, every summer Friday brings live music on the 9th Street Plaza, with street performers, fire spinners, face painting, balloon artistry, sidewalk chalk and more. STAY & PLAY OPTIONS Greeley (page 198), Loveland (page 200), Platteville, Johnstown (page 199), Windsor QUICK TIP The Devil’s Backbone is an essential Loveland hike. Be sure to find the keyhole, a unique arch favored by those awaiting epic sunrises and sunsets, as well as wildflowers and soaring red-tailed hawks.
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