As the days grow long and trees bud, locals and tourists trade in their snowboards for paddle boards. From the weather to the scenery to the Colorado Rockies signing an All-Star third baseman, it’s hard to beat springtime in the Centennial State.
For its part, Longmont knows how to keep up with the rest of the region. With open space turned outdoor grace, the area is a melodious mix of rural roots and urban adventure. It offers all sorts of wonderful places to enjoy the change in season, including the following:
Lagerman Agricultural Preserve is a go-to destination for birdwatchers, nature lovers, bicyclists, and mindfulness seekers. It’s also ideal for walkers, with 1.6-mile and 4.9-mile loops that offer easy hikes with excellent wildlife views.
Water-lovers are welcome as well, but with a catch: canoes, kayaks, inflatables, and stand-up paddle boards are allowed while sailboards and sailboats are prohibited.
The Golden Ponds Nature Area opened more than 30 years ago. Named after Vernon Golden who donated the land to Longmont citizens, it features stunning views of the area (particularly Longs Peak), 2.6 miles of trails, a fishing pier, picnic shelters, and four ponds over 56 acres of water.
The area is known as a favorite hangout of small critters and fowl, especially blue herons. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed.
Roosevelt Park covers three city blocks and has been a staple of the Longmont community for over a century. It features an activity pool (open seasonally), a playground, a senior center, picnic areas, BBQ grills and pits, public art displays, and more.
While the late, great country singer Lynn Anderson never promised you a rose garden, this park does. The Longmont Lions Club started the renowned garden on the grounds back in 1945 and it’s blossomed ever since.
Kanemoto Park is a kid-friendly and family-focused destination that offers playgrounds, multi-use fields, basketball courts, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic areas, a pagoda, sand volleyball courts, and paved trails.
The park’s land was donated by the Kanemoto family in 1966 after Goroku Kanemoto immigrated from Japan more than 50 years earlier and set down roots. It stands out for its Tower of Compassion, a tower commissioned by the Kanemoto family and built to mirror a traditional Japanese temple. Its five stories signify gratitude, love, empathy, understanding, and giving selflessly of oneself.
While Longmont was once an agricultural town that lingered in the shadow of the more boisterous Boulder, times have changed. Now, Longmont is part of the cool crowd. As a result, it’s become a bit of a mecca for foodies. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, pizza, Chinese, American, or most anything else, you can find it here.
Of course, there’s something to be said for enjoying great food in the great outdoors; the ambiance of a patio on a warm mile high night is worth leaving the house! Not every restaurant in Longmont has outdoor seating available but many do. Check out the local dining guide to find an appetizing spot to grab a bite to eat, with a side of vitamin D.
Like any proper Colorado town, Longmont offers plenty of space to enjoy the solace of nature and the fresh open air. Visit one of these places and spring into spring the best way possible.
VerraWest Apartments features large living spaces with luxurious amenities. Located in Longmont, Colorado, we offer the perfect mix of city life and outdoor adventures. Contactus today to learn about our availability.