Loveland loves dogs, which is why it’s easy to eat, play and stay in the Sweetheart City. From dog-friendly parks and trails to pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, Loveland is a destination that makes sure that our four-legged companions are just as welcome as their human counterparts. Here are nine reasons to book a pup-cation in Loveland this spring, summer, or fall.
Where to Stay
Dog-friendly accommodations are easy to find in Loveland, Colo: The Embassy Suites Loveland is one of the top Embassy hotels in the world. One reason? It’s a dog-friendly property. Additionally, La Quinta by Wyndham, Candlewood Suites Loveland, and Courtyard by Marriott all accept dogs as well. For a fun and eclectic (and pet-friendly!) home, check out The Oasis on Eisenhower, a historic home turned “Museinn” with five one-of-a-kind themed rooms.
Where to Play
Delightful dog parks abound: Don’t miss Mehaffey Park, which includes TWO dog parks – including one that caters to shy and small dogs on the east side. Fairgrounds Park has an easily accessible dog park and boasts beautiful views thanks to its location along the Big Thompson River.
Dogs love time at the lake: Sure, humans love Loveland’s lakes – but boy do pups love lake livin’ in Loveland! 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.
They will beg for the Backbone: 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).
Stroll through the sculptures: 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 our great Dane for a ‘high five. Hint: it’s at Benson!
What to Do
Fido-friendly festivals: Many of Loveland’s downtown festivals are open to well-behaved pets. For example, Thunder Mountain Harley Davidson hosts its Pooch Party on April 22, 2023, with a dog costume contest, dog-friendly vendors, a photo booth, adoptable dogs on site and more.
Rover is welcome at Loveland shopping areas: 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.
Where to Eat/Sip
Canines and craft beer just go together: 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. Many of Loveland’s 10 craft breweries are dog friendly, including:
- Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, Loveland’s first brewery, is also dog friendly and is even known to host fundraisers and adoption events to benefit canine rescue organizations.
- Enjoy Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project’s refreshing 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.
Dog-friendly dining is easy: There are lots of dog-friendly restaurants in Loveland where well-behaved canines are welcome to dine on the patio with their humans, including Slice N’ Roll, Sweet Heart Winery, CJ’s Patio Grill, McGraff’s American Grill, Betta Gumbo and Loveland Tap & Tavern.
So there are nine of the many reasons Loveland loves dogs. We like to think dogs love Loveland as well, so grab fido and head to the “Sweetheart City” for your next adventure!
P.S.: Don’t care for canines? 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 $15 fee to enter the café and the money funds rehoming the cats.
