Loveland

Not to be confused with Loveland Ski Area (west of Denver) the town of Loveland actually rests north along the Front Range near Fort Collins. Colorado's Sweetheart City, has become famous for its Valentine's Day love stamp program, but its bronze foundries and local art program are equally impressive. Each August, during Sculpture in the Park, Loveland's surprisingly large community of local sculptors (about 200) converges in Benson Park to sell their work. A month later the town hosts the nation's largest exhibit of prehistoric arrowheads at the Stone Age Fair.

There's plenty to do outside here. Just like Fort Collins, little Loveland is near the foothills and rivers, so natural pleasures from biking to fishing are close at hand. A fun bed and breakfast is the turn-of-the-century Lovelander; plush rooms and gourmet breakfast will make it a memorable stay.

A step inside the Loveland Museum and Gallery will bring you even closer to this town's unique history; period rooms and changing exhibits, plus educational classes and an art gallery round out its offerings. Dining is quite diverse: Try the Savoy, rated Colorado's best French restaurant; The Black Steer serves up tasty steaks; and Miss Atti's Tea Room specializes in light, upscale lunches.