Each August, Loveland’s love for sculpture becomes even more apparent as the country’s largest outdoor juried sculpture show takes center stage at Sculpture in the Park. Set against the scenic backdrop of Benson Sculpture Garden, this signature event has drawn collectors, creators and art lovers from around the world for over 40 years and for good reason.
It all started in 1984 when five visionary local sculptors, George Lundeen, Dan Ostermiller, George Walbye, Fritz White and Hollis Williford, dreamed up an outdoor show unlike any other. That dream has since transformed into a national phenomenon. Today, the event hosts more than 160 artists and draws thousands of attendees who come to be inspired, take home original artwork and celebrate Loveland’s deep-rooted affinity for the arts. Each year, the proceeds from the event are used to purchase new sculptures for the Benson Sculpture Garden, as well as to fund park capital improvements and landscaping.
If you’re heading to Sculpture in the Park this year, happening Aug. 8 through Aug. 10, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re wondering what else to do while you’re in town, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to soak up the vibe, we’ve got you covered with a full weekend itinerary that pairs artistic immersion with outdoor adventure, local flavor and Loveland charm.
Friday, Aug. 8: Arrival and an Artful Evening
Morning: Check-In & Settle In
Start your weekend by checking into one of Loveland’s cozy, centrally located hotels or charming short-term rentals. Bonus points for finding a place with mountain views or a local art print on the wall. Loveland is full of both.
Afternoon Stroll & New Love Lock Sculpture
Kick things off downtown with a visit to the new love lock sculpture at the Loveland Museum, designed by local artist Doug Rutledge. This interactive public artwork is a heartfelt nod to Loveland’s reputation as the “Sweetheart City,” and a piece of art in its own right. Bring your own lock or purchase one at the Visitors Center inside the Loveland Museum to leave a little love behind.
Evening: Dinner & Drinks
Loveland’s downtown is dotted with restaurants and breweries that blend great food with equally memorable atmospheres. We recommend grabbing a patio seat at Verboten Brewing or Loveland Aleworks. Both offer rotating taps of locally crafted beers and there’s nothing quite like sipping a cold one as the sun dips behind the Rockies.
For VIPS
For interested buyers and those looking for a VIP experience, attend the Sculpture in the Park Patron Party. A limited number of tickets are available each year. From 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., guests can get a first look at the new sculptures, meet the artists and enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Saturday, Aug. 9: Sculpture, Trails and Local Treasures
Morning: Sculpture in the Park General Admission
Start your day at Benson Sculpture Garden, the show’s longtime home and a destination in its own right with more than 170 permanent pieces on display year-round. During the Sculpture in the Park show, the grounds transform to host the event. The show encompasses some sculpture from the garden, but some pieces, especially those on the south side of West 29th Street, are still open to the public. General admission tickets to Sculpture in the Park are only $10. Information about show hours, parking and shuttles can be found on the Sculpture in the Park website.
Afternoon: Lunch & Hike at Devil’s Backbone
Drive a few minutes downtown to Door 222, a downtown bistro offering a locally loved menu of small plates and artful presentation. If you’re feeling casual, Backyard Tap is another great option. It’s a laid-back beer garden with food trucks, community seating and live music throughout the summer.
After lunch, stretch your legs and balance your art intake with a hike through one of Loveland’s most iconic natural landmarks: Devil’s Backbone Open Space. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this rugged sandstone formation offers stunning views and several loop trails for all skill levels. The Wild Loop Trail is a solid favorite. It’s just over two miles of trail featuring the awe-inspiring “Keyhole” formation and it’s perfect for a pre-dinner outing.
Evening: Artsy Afterglow
Head back into town and unwind with dinner and more public art. Henry’s Pub offers elevated pub favorites, such as fish and chips and steak medallions, paired with local brews, all just steps from the Loveland Museum and more public art. Take a sunset stroll past Loveland’s mural-lined alleys. You might even catch an impromptu performance at the Rialto Theater or a nearby gallery event.
Sunday, Aug. 10: A Meaningful Sendoff
Morning: Brunch & Browsing
Start your last morning by picking up coffee and a pastry at Dark Heart Coffee Bar, an artsy, local favorite that roasts its own beans. Head to Art in the Park, an open-air market hosted the same weekend at North Lake Park. This arts and crafts fair features over 250 vendors offering everything from fine art and handmade jewelry to crafts, home goods and gourmet treats. It’s a great spot to find one-of-a-kind pieces at more accessible price points, whether you’re looking to decorate your home, pick up a thoughtful gift or just enjoy the creative energy. With live music, food trucks and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, it’s the perfect complement to your art-filled weekend in Loveland.
Enjoy Loveland Art Like Locals Do
Whether you came for the sculptures, stayed for the scenery or fell in love with the city’s creative spirit along the way, Loveland has a way of sticking with you. From Doug Rutledge’s new love lock sculpture to the majestic trails of Devil’s Backbone, from brewery patios to world-class artistry, this is a place where inspiration lives around every corner and where every visit leaves its mark.
So go ahead. Lock in the memories, toast to creativity and start planning your return.