Loveland, Colorado, is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers but also a paradise for pet owners who want to enjoy a day out with their furry friends. Whether you’re strolling through a sculpture park, sipping a craft beer at a dog-friendly brewery, or enjoying a relaxing hike with your pup, Loveland offers plenty of pet-friendly spots where your dog can join in the fun. If you’re planning a visit to this charming city and want to include your four-legged companion, here are seven pet-friendly things to do in Loveland that are sure to make your visit memorable!
#1: Breweries
Canines, craft beer and sunny patios were just made for each other. Here are four dog-friendly breweries in Loveland:
- Backyard Tap, with its giant backyard and dog bowls aplenty, will keep four-legged friends happy while mom and dad sip away and nosh on pizza, tacos and more from the rotating food trucks that visit.
- Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, Loveland’s oldest brewery is also dog friendly and is even known to host fundraisers and adoption events to benefit canine rescue organizations. It has a relatively new location at 815 14th St. SW, B100. Bonus: Dog treats are free!
- This spring, enjoy Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project’s refreshing TOSO – Thinking of Something Orange – wheat beer on the patio while your dog lounges by your feet.
- At Loveland Aleworks, dogs are allowed on the patio and one of the brewery’s awesome sour beers is best sipped alongside your four-legged companion.
#2: Shopping
Loveland’s many outdoor shopping venues allow patrons to shop and stroll – with their pooch! You will often see dog bowls and pick-up bags at The Promenade Shops at Centerra (merchants that permit dogs have a sticker on the door) and in Loveland’s charming downtown shopping district.
#3: Hiking
The trails at the Devil’s Backbone are even more fun with your pup. Plus, the rocks behind the keyhole provide some nice shade and a great resting spot for water, snacks and “attaboys.” Other hiking trails around the city offer up dog-approved experiences as well, like the easy trails at River’s Edge Natural Area, a 163-acre natural area that includes fishing access at the five ponds in the area, and great wildlife viewing opportunities (just remember to keep your dog leashed). Read about more great hikes here.
#4: Strolling
Not quite feeling a hike? No problem! There are some beautiful, peaceful spots to walk in Loveland thanks to its three sculpture parks. Chapungu Sculpture Park, McWhinney-Hahn Sculpture Park, and Benson Sculpture Garden are great for a quiet stroll with fido. As a bonus – Loveland’s love for dogs can be seen in several sculptures around town. Find the Great Dane sculpture at Benson for a ‘high five.
#5: Lakes
Looking ahead to warm spring and summer days, dogs sure love Loveland’s lakes and there are some lakes in Loveland that are dog friendly. Boyd Lake, Carter Lake and Lake Loveland are all dog friendly, just remember dogs must remain leashed (no more than 6-foot leash). While they are allowed to be in the lakes, they are not allowed on shore or in the water on or near the swim beaches.
#6: Parks
For super social dogs, don’t miss the delightful dog parks in town. Mehaffey Park includes two dog parks (on the east side, you’ll find one that caters to shy and small dogs). Fairgrounds Park has an easily accessible dog park and boasts beautiful views thanks to its location along the Big Thompson River.
#7: A Cat-friendly Cafe
Not a dog person? No worries! Go cuddle the cats at NoCo Cat Cafe (121 E. 5th St.) where you can sip coffee or tea while cuddling adoptable cats. As the first cat café in the region, their mission is to provide a safe, friendly environment for cats and community members to socialize. To that end, adoptable cats and kittens are brought in from nonprofit partner Colorado Kitty Coalition cat rescue to roam free and – hopefully – be adopted. Note: There is a $12 fee to enter the café and the money funds rehoming the cats.
