front yard
1 / 10

Loveland Museum

4.7
·461 reviews·Loveland, United States

Discover Loveland's rich past and vibrant art scene, from sugar beet history to rotating galleries. A gem for families and history buffs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
front yard

Loveland Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Loveland's rich past and vibrant art scene, from sugar beet history to rotating galleries. A gem for families and history buffs.

4.7
(461 reviews)

"A deep look into the art and history of the wild west and Loveland Colorado specifically."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check for Free Days

:ticket: Many local history exhibits are free! Check their schedule for special free admission days for art galleries too.

Engage with Staff

:bustsinsilhouette: Staff are knowledgeable and great with kids, offering insights into history and art.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Local History Exhibit

Local History Exhibit

Main historical gallery

Discover Loveland's past, from sugar beet production to electricity development. A captivating look at community growth.

Rotating Art Galleries

Rotating Art Galleries

Main art gallery

Experience diverse and unique art displays that change periodically. Always something fresh and inspiring to see.

Ansel Adams Photography

Ansel Adams Photography

Special exhibit space

Powerful photos capturing life at the Manzanar internment camp in 1943. A must-see historical and artistic collection.

Kids' Art Gallery

Kids' Art Gallery

Downstairs area

A charming and engaging space designed for younger visitors to explore and create art.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free vs. Paid Exhibits

While the local history exhibits, including the fascinating sugar beet industry story, are free, the art galleries often have a small admission fee. Check ahead to plan your visit and budget accordingly.

Exhibit Rotation

The Loveland Museum features rotating art exhibits in its main gallery, so there's often something new to discover. Check their website for current displays before you go to make the most of your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During free exhibit days
Why
Save money, enjoy history
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I am traveling to Fort Collins in a few weeks with my husband for a work trip. He will be busy during the day, I am looking for recs of things to do while he is at his conference. Best places to eat, shop, do. I’m specifically interested in visiting an art museum or two??

Check for Free Days

:ticket: Many local history exhibits are free! Check their schedule for special free admission days for art galleries too. Reddit

Engage with Staff

:bustsinsilhouette: Staff are knowledgeable and great with kids, offering insights into history and art. Reddit

reddit.com

Locals! What are your favorite things to do?

Plan for Rotations

:calendar: Exhibits change, so check the website before visiting to see what's currently on display. Reddit

Kid-Friendly Exploration

:child: The downstairs kids' art gallery is a hit! Great for families looking for interactive fun. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Free Days

:ticket: Many local history exhibits are free! Check their schedule for special free admission days for art galleries too. Reddit

Engage with Staff

:bustsinsilhouette: Staff are knowledgeable and great with kids, offering insights into history and art. Reddit

Plan for Rotations

:calendar: Exhibits change, so check the website before visiting to see what's currently on display. Reddit

Kid-Friendly Exploration

:child: The downstairs kids' art gallery is a hit! Great for families looking for interactive fun. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(461 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Loveland Museum for its engaging local history exhibits, particularly the detailed story of the sugar beet industry, and its diverse, rotating art displays. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with the dedicated kids' art gallery, make it a great destination for families. While some art galleries have a fee, the free historical sections offer significant value.

"Went on a free day. It's a cool museum. They had an exhibit featuring a local artist sculpture, very impressive. Also saw an exhibit called The Art of Death showing different photos of various cemeteries in Colorado. Also featured is the history of Loveland including sugar and beet production and the development of electricity and the Big Thompson river."

Armando Provencio

"We love to visit the museum for their new exhibits. The exhibits in the main gallery are quite varied and unique and they rotate every several months so there's usually something new to see. The core exhibit does an excellent job highlighting the local sugar beet industry history which is an amazing story of what contributed to the community's growth.

We return frequently and would highly recommend the exhibit that opened just recently - Ansel Adams photos at Manzanar interment camp in 1943. Just excellent work that truly captures life in the camp! A must see!"

Chuck Baumgart

"Despite its location and size this museum provides a deep look into the art and history of the wild west and loveland Colorado specifically. The knowledge and experience of the staff is wonderful, especially if you have children as it is really engaging to have them go over the historical way people lived and mountain men operated. A really delightful experience and a great family or class activity"

Delorado Review

What People Like

Fascinating sugar beet history
Diverse rotating art exhibits
Engaging and friendly staff

What People Dislike

Art gallery admission fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Loveland Museum is located in downtown Loveland, Colorado. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the Loveland Museum gallery. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available in the vicinity of the Loveland Museum. Street parking and nearby lots are common options for visitors to the Loveland Museum Loveland CO. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the Loveland Museum directly for specific accessibility details regarding ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities. Reddit

If you're coming from Denver or other surrounding areas, major highways like I-25 North will lead you towards Loveland. Follow local signage for downtown Loveland and the museum. Reddit

Loveland has a growing network of bike paths. If you're local or staying nearby, biking can be a pleasant way to reach the museum, especially during good weather. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Loveland Museum hours vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Typically, they are open Tuesday through Saturday, with some variations on Sundays and Mondays. Reddit

Admission to the local history exhibits at the Loveland Museum is often free. However, there is usually a small admission fee for the art galleries. Check the Loveland Museum gallery pricing online. Reddit

For general admission to the free exhibits, advance booking is usually not required. For special ticketed exhibitions or events at the Loveland Museum, it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak times. Reddit

While the history section is free, discounts for the art galleries might be available for students, seniors, or children. Inquire at the ticket counter or check their website for details on the Loveland Colorado art museum. Reddit

Yes, the Loveland Historical Society Museum's collections and exhibits are integrated within the Loveland Museum, focusing on the rich history of the area. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Loveland Museum features rotating art exhibits, a permanent local history exhibit detailing Loveland's growth (including sugar beets!), and a charming kids' art gallery. Reddit

Absolutely! The downstairs kids' art gallery is a highlight, and the historical exhibits are often presented in an engaging way that appeals to children. Staff are also noted for being great with younger visitors. Reddit

You can spend anywhere from an hour to a few hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits. If you plan to see both the history and art galleries, allow at least 1.5-2 hours. Reddit

While not always advertised, inquire at the front desk about potential guided tours or if staff are available to offer insights, especially for the historical sections. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibit. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use in the historical sections, but it's best to check signage or ask staff about specific art exhibits. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Loveland Museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, there are many dining options available in the surrounding downtown Loveland area. Reddit

Downtown Loveland offers a variety of eateries, from casual cafes and breweries to more formal dining establishments. You'll find options to suit different tastes and budgets. Reddit

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to enjoy your meal at a nearby restaurant or park before or after your visit. Reddit

Yes, the downtown area has several family-friendly restaurants. Look for places with diverse menus that cater to children's preferences. Reddit

Several coffee shops are located within walking distance of the museum in downtown Loveland, perfect for a pre- or post-visit pick-me-up. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historical exhibits, especially the topographical map, offer unique visual elements. The art galleries can also provide striking compositions, depending on the current exhibition. Reddit

Photography rules for special exhibits like the Ansel Adams collection can be strict. Always check for signage or ask museum staff before taking any photos. Reddit

Generally, flash photography is prohibited inside the museum to protect the artwork and historical artifacts. Always adhere to posted signs or staff instructions. Reddit

The architecture of the museum building itself and the surrounding downtown Loveland area can offer nice backdrops for portraits. Reddit

Mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting if you're taking photos of the exterior or nearby areas. Inside, lighting is controlled by the museum. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Loveland Museum is a fantastic spot for families. The downstairs kids' art gallery is a major draw, offering a hands-on creative space for children. Reddit Beyond that, the museum staff are known for being incredibly engaging with younger visitors, making the historical exhibits come alive. Reddit It’s a great way to introduce kids to local history and art in a fun, accessible way. Consider visiting during weekdays for a less crowded experience. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will appreciate the rotating art exhibits featured in the museum's main gallery. These displays are varied and often highlight impressive local and regional artists, as well as significant collections like the Ansel Adams photography. Reddit While there's a small fee for these galleries, the quality and uniqueness of the exhibitions make it a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in contemporary and historical art. Reddit

📚 History Buffs

For those fascinated by local history, the Loveland Museum offers a rich and detailed look into the area's past. The permanent exhibit on the sugar beet industry is particularly noteworthy, providing a deep understanding of its impact on Loveland's development. Reddit You'll also find exhibits covering other key aspects of Loveland's heritage, making it an educational and insightful visit for anyone interested in the 'wild west' and Colorado's unique history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sugar Beet Story

One of the most consistently praised aspects of the Loveland Museum is its deep dive into the history of sugar beet production in the region. This exhibit isn't just about agriculture; it tells a compelling story of how this industry was instrumental in the growth and development of Loveland. Visitors often express surprise at the significance of sugar beets to the community's past and present. It's a unique piece of local heritage that sets the museum apart. Reddit

This exhibit provides a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the hard work and innovation that shaped Loveland. From the agricultural processes to the economic impact, the museum effectively brings this vital part of local history to life. It’s a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving and sharing the stories that define the area. Reddit

Artistic Exploration

The Loveland Museum is not just about history; it's also a vibrant space for art appreciation. The museum features rotating art exhibits in its main gallery, ensuring that repeat visitors will always find something new and engaging. These exhibits showcase a diverse range of styles and artists, offering a dynamic cultural experience. Reddit

Past exhibitions have included impressive local sculptures and thought-provoking photography, such as the highly recommended Ansel Adams collection. This commitment to showcasing varied artistic expressions makes the Loveland Museum a significant cultural hub. The small admission fee for these galleries is widely considered well worth the experience, providing access to high-quality art. Reddit

Family-Friendly Fun

For families visiting the Loveland Museum, the downstairs kids' art gallery is a definite highlight. This dedicated space is designed to be interactive and engaging for younger visitors, making art accessible and fun. It’s a thoughtful addition that caters specifically to children, ensuring they have a memorable experience. Reddit

Beyond the dedicated kids' area, the museum's staff are frequently commended for their ability to engage children with the historical exhibits. Their knowledge and enthusiasm can transform a museum visit into an educational adventure, making it a great outing for families or school groups looking for a delightful and informative experience. Reddit

You may also like