Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Johnstown, Colorado

Johnstown is a modest community of approximately 11,000 inhabitants situated within Weld and Larimer Counties in Colorado’s north-central region, nestled between Denver to the south and Fort Collins to the north.

Although its rural character and small geographical area result in a limited number of attractions within the town limits, those willing to venture further will discover a range of unique sites in the nearby towns and cities, including Loveland, Greeley, and Fort Collins.

To the west of Johnstown lies a wealth of state and national parks, as well as some of the premier ski resorts in North America.

Below are 15 activities to enjoy in and around Johnstown, Colorado.

1. B’s Coffee

B’s Coffee is situated on Johnstown Center Drive and provides an assortment of hot and cold coffee selections, alongside smoothies, shakes, tea, and freshly baked items such as cookies, pastries, and brownies.

They also offer a selection of indulgent hot chocolates, as well as almond and soy milk alternatives for those with lactose intolerance, and protein powder for fitness enthusiasts.

Frequent visitors appreciate B’s inviting and modern atmosphere, attentive personnel, and complimentary Wi-Fi. It serves as an ideal early morning stop for travelers seeking caffeine and nourishment prior to their exploration of the Rocky Mountain State.

2. Mad Russian Golf Course

The Mad Russian Golf Course, located near Milliken, has repeatedly been recognized for having the most unique name among American golf courses.

This 18-hole, par-71 course ranges from 5,400 to 5,900 yards in length, depending on the tee selection.

This slightly shorter course is an excellent choice for those wishing to fit in a round of golf while leaving ample time for additional activities.

With gently rolling hills, strategically positioned sand dunes and water hazards, and fast greens, the course is both enjoyable and challenging, and the greens fees are quite reasonable by Colorado standards.

3. Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Colorado boasts countless majestic mountains, stunning vistas, and a plethora of local, state, and national parks, offering both residents and visitors numerous outdoor activities.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space, located a short drive from Johnstown in Loveland, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, biking, and bird watching.

This expansive area spans over 2,000 acres and features an extensive network of multi-use trails that create an illusion of being far removed from urban life.

The park is free to enter and welcomes visitors daily from sunrise to sunset.

4. The Loveland Museum and Gallery

The Loveland Museum and Gallery has been operating since the 1930s, founded by a local author, historian, and professional guide named Harold Dunning.

Although the collection began modestly, it has expanded over the years to include significant works of art and historically relevant artifacts and memorabilia.

Exhibits showcase the region’s Native American heritage, the pioneer and gold rush periods, and a variety of local and regional artworks in different media.

The facility also frequently hosts engaging and educational programs for adults and children alike.

5. Sweet Heart Winery

In the realm of adult beverages in Colorado, beer remains the dominant choice; however, wine and distilled spirits have been gaining recognition in recent years.

Located in Loveland at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Sweet Heart Winery offers guided tours and tastings in its scenic tasting room, providing remarkable views of the river and mountains.

Sweet Heart features a diverse selection of wines—red, white, and hybrids—many of which have received prestigious regional and national accolades.

Specific areas of the facility are available for rental for special events such as weddings, family gatherings, and corporate functions.

6. Rialto Theater

The Rialto Theater in Loveland has served as an entertainment landmark for nearly a century.

Upon its opening in 1920, tickets were merely a few cents, featuring popular black and white western films.

The historic theater has experienced numerous ups and downs over the years, and recent renovations have provided modern seating along with state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology.

The theater now accommodates nearly 500 patrons and primarily showcases vintage and independent films that are typically unavailable in larger cinema chains. Additionally, it hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year.

7. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

During certain times of the year, Colorado’s weather can be quite severe, and having a few indoor activity options can be particularly valuable for families traveling with children.

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, established in 1941 under a different name, has since relocated and developed an impressive permanent collection containing tens of thousands of artifacts.

The museum primarily focuses on preserving the history of the Native Americans and settlers who inhabited the Cache La Poudre River region centuries ago, and its grounds also include several historic buildings.

8. Kress Cinema & Lounge

Throughout much of the early and mid-20th century, many small towns in the United States boasted independent theaters. While numerous establishments fell into disrepair, several have been restored to showcase their former charm.

The Kress Cinema & Lounge, located in Greeley, serves as both an independent movie theater and a full-service restaurant, complemented by a speakeasy-style bar in the basement known for its wide selection of beers and wines, as well as craft cocktails, many crafted from locally sourced spirits.

This unique venue presents an excellent alternative for romantic evenings and date nights for couples without children.

9. Fort Collins Municipal Railway

The public transport system of Fort Collins once featured traditional streetcars that operated for over forty years during the early to mid-20th century.

The Fort Collins Municipal Railway continues to operate a few restored streetcars for weekend tours throughout the summer months, specifically on West Mountain Avenue.

For those interested in taking a refreshing step back in time and seeing the city from a distinctive viewpoint, the tours provide a joyful experience lasting approximately 30 minutes and are particularly popular among children.

The service runs from May to September, making it an ideal time to visit if your itinerary allows.

10. Benson Park Sculpture Garden

The Benson Park Sculpture Garden was established in the mid-1980s through the collaboration of local sculptors and the chamber of commerce to create a distinct artistic attraction.

The inaugural annual art show took place in 1984, featuring dozens of artists who ultimately sold artworks worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Since its inception, the sculpture garden has expanded to include numerous striking works of art crafted from various materials such as wood, glass, bronze, stone, and ceramics.

Paved paths connect the park’s individual sections, offering an enjoyable experience on sunny days.

11. Big Beaver Brewing Company

Located on West Eisenhower Boulevard in Loveland, Big Beaver Brewing Company features a rotating selection of over a dozen beer options, many of which feature clever names inspired by anatomical references.

The brewery’s owners and brewers emphasize the importance of scientific principles in crafting excellent beer, utilizing only the finest ingredients, many sourced locally.

Big Beaver operates daily from the early afternoon until 9 or 10 p.m., making it an excellent venue for visiting craft beer enthusiasts to connect with locals, who can provide valuable insights into the area.

12. Avery House

Avery House in Fort Collins was originally constructed in the 1870s by a distinguished local figure who established the First National Bank of Fort Collins.

The house served as the family residence for generations, and in addition to his banking contributions, Mr. Avery played a vital role in community initiatives, including the development of infrastructure like roads, parks, and water systems.

This property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring unique architectural characteristics such as a Victorian tower, a fountain, and an ornate gazebo.

Guided tours led by knowledgeable local docents in period costumes provide an enriching experience at this captivating historical venue.

13. Gardens on Spring Creek

Occupying nearly 20 acres along Center Avenue in Fort Collins, the Gardens on Spring Creek is a valuable community resource often overlooked by those seeking more commercial attractions.

This garden’s location along the Rocky Mountain Front Range offers breathtaking views throughout the year. Besides its a variety of uniquely themed cultivated areas, the garden hosts several annual events, including art walks, seasonal celebrations, and historical tours.

A children’s garden encourages young ones to engage in hands-on activities, while culinary and botanical workshops cater to adult visitors.

14. White-Plumb Farm Learning Center

The White-Plumb Farm was owned and operated by the same family for over a century before it was transferred to the city of Greeley.

Settled in the 1880s by a returning Civil War veteran, this farm has undergone several renovations while still retaining a significant amount of its original historic appeal.

The interactive learning center provides visitors with a range of historical and cultural exhibits, offering unique insights into the lives of individuals who worked the land nearly 150 years ago. This location typically proves to be one of the most engaging and educational experiences for families traveling together.

15. Greeley History Museum

The Greeley History Museum houses multiple permanent exhibits, predominantly focused on the area’s pioneer-era history, spanning back to when the western plains underwent a transformative agricultural shift leading to the well-known Dust Bowl in the early 20th century.

The collection encompasses farm tools, clothing, household items, photographs, and firsthand accounts. Additionally, the museum curates temporary exhibits borrowed from various institutions and private collections throughout the year.

Many exhibits are designed to be interactive, enhancing the visitor experience and providing a deeper connection compared to traditional static museum displays.