Just south of Fort Collins, Loveland — not to be confused with Loveland Ski Area — delivers all the wonders of nature and town. From rushing rivers to peaceful lakes and craft breweries to a charming downtown, there’s numerous ways to explore Colorado’s Sweetheart City. Rest up at the end of your day at The Oasis on Eisenhower, a local hidden gem.
The Oasis is anything but cookie-cutter. From nostalgic diner-scene murals and portrait-filled walls to memorabilia-packed rooms, everything about this inn gives off cool, eclectic vibes. All the guest rooms are themed and feature one-of-a-kind art installations. In The Enchanted Forest room, you’ll be wowed by the artificial tree with leaf-covered limbs that touch the ceiling and stretch across the space. The Sci-Fi Zone room has a giant UFO that looks like it came crashing through the roof.
Outside the inn, stroll along winding dirt paths that weave through verdant gardens with secret hideaways and ever-evolving displays. Discover the concrete couch tucked away amid the mirrors and windows of the Reflection Garden — a perfect place to contemplate the world or snap a few photos. Or search the backyard for the mini Stonehenge-esque statues in the Citadel exhibit.
At The Oasis, you can refresh after a day of outdoor adventure and explore exhibit rooms filled with museum-worthy collections. Some pieces you’ll find here include a functional 1950s TV set in a polished, light-wood frame, a record-covered juke box, an antique Pepsi machine and an old-fashioned arcade game. With a growing list of artifacts, you never know what new additions you’ll find with each visit.
It’s gotta be The Colorado King room. As you walk in, the wood-paneled ceiling, floor and walls transport you to a cozy log cabin nestled among majestic slopes. Paintings of natural landscapes and an electric fireplace complete the mountain-home atmosphere. Flick the fire on for a romantic vibe and snuggle with your sweetheart beneath thick, faux-fur blankets. Gaze together out the window at the Centennial peaks and rest beneath the painted state flag above the bed.
It’s the complimentary snacks provided in each room, like granola bars, rice crispies, cookies and candies. They’re perfect for quieting grumbling tummies as you settle in or for taking on your daily explorations around Loveland.
Take a relaxing dip in the heated swimming pool with attached hot-tub area. While it’s not deep enough for diving, it is perfectly situated to admire the bright yellows, burnt oranges and soft pinks of the blooming garden or outstanding views of the mountains. Enjoy a soak as the sun sets and watch as hundreds of glittering stars come out to play.
“Couldn't have been happier with our one-year anniversary stay. The room was spectacular, with great service — the perfect romantic getaway. Beautiful views and art structures around the grounds. A great attraction is their hot tub-and-pool combo with a great view of the mountains and skyline. We’ll definitely return to experience the other themed rooms.” — Lety Z., Google
Close to The Oasis, you’ll find several noteworthy food and drink options. Sample international flavors with crunchy tacos and cheesy enchiladas at El Pueblito or spicy curries and flaky samosas at Durbar Bistro. Stroll over to Ziggi’s Coffee for a whipped-cream-topped latte or waffle breakfast sandwich. In the evenings, enjoy traditional German-style suds and artisan root beer at Big Beaver Brewing Co.’s taproom down the street.
A little farther down the road is the Oxbow Natural Area, where you’ll have access to an extensive system of trails through open meadows around the canal known as Big Barnes Ditch and the Big Thompson River.
Photos courtesy of The Oasis on Eisenhower