When Friday finally hits and the week comes to a close, you can at last feel like you can breathe again. That is, until you remember all the things you have going on throughout the weekend. With the errands and household chores and the birthday parties and everything in between, Saturday and Sunday often feel practically over—before they’ve even begun. Especially in fall, there are so many things to do in the Loveland area, and the last thing we want to feel is like we’re missing out on these already-fleeting opportunities.

Since we at Taste Local are all about slowing down and making time for yourself, we’ve compiled a list of some key things to do in Loveland on the weekends. All of them can be easily completed in a morning or afternoon (or even less if time is an issue), and they all promise to be a way for you to break from routine. Take a look at what to do in Loveland this weekend, and stop by our breakfast restaurant to get the best in savory brunch options!

Devil’s Backbone

Even though fall is coming to a close sooner than we think, it’s still an excellent time to get out and do some hiking while you can. Devil’s Backbone is a gorgeous geological landmark, is just west of Loveland, and as an added bonus, has no entrance fee! There are 12 miles of trails that connect to other open spaces, meaning you can explore as much (or as little) as you’d like.

To enjoy some of the picnic areas that Devil’s Backbone has to offer, grab some friends or family and spend a morning or afternoon enjoying the autumn sunshine. Pack a picnic yourself, or make it easier and opt for our breakfast restaurant’s grab-and-go breakfast options! Check out our menu to see what’s available.

Simpson Ponds

Many Coloradans would agree—there’s no better way to relax than to go fishing. Getting a chance to enjoy the peacefulness of a pond, the serenity of a sunrise or sunset spent by the water are things that simply can’t be beat. Take some time for yourself and check out Simpson Ponds, where 66 acres of water and hiking areas meet. With opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking, this is a great chance to get outdoors while you still can—without needing to get all bundled up, of course.

For some more fishing opportunities, the Big Thompson River is another great place to check out, especially for trout fishing. You might even get to see some elk nearby as well!

Downtown Loveland

Sometimes you can have oodles of fun exploring your own backyard, and downtown Loveland is the best place to do so. With cute shops and art galleries galore, this can be a great opportunity to walk around and experience everything that our city has to offer. You might find something new, or you might simply revisit old haunts, but either is an excellent way to take in your surroundings this weekend.

Chapungu Sculpture Park

You might not guess there to be an incredible sculpture park at Centerra, but Loveland can be surprising that way! Founded in 1970 by Roy Guthrie, Chapungu Sculpture Park is an excellent place to view some incredible Zimbabwe/Shona stone sculptures. There are plenty of walking paths, a nearby stream, and if you feel like hitting the shops at Centerra later, you’re practically there already. This would be a great activity for families and friends alike to enjoy.

Taste Local

You could do any or all of these activities, and you’re certain to work up an appetite in the process. Luckily for you, you’ve got Taste Local. Our breakfast restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8-2pm, and has brunch options for the whole family to enjoy. From blueberry pancakes with lemon curd to savory breakfast burritos, to our rosemary chicken salad served on a croissant, you really can’t go wrong. An avocado chicken BLT on our toasted sourdough bread is the perfect way to indulge and recap on the amazing weekend activities you were involved in. Spend some time with family, friends, or treat yourself to brunch and a book (and some people watching, too!)

The weekends should be enjoyed, not booked, but as we all know, the latter happens more frequently than it should. Make some time for yourself, and enjoy the sustainable, seasonal, and local flavors that Taste Localhas to offer. Stop by our breakfast restaurant—we’re positive it will be a delicious addition to your weekend.