Hey there, it’s Lensworth, diving into the art-soaked scene of Loveland, Colorado’s sculpture gardens! You’re probably wondering about that “5000 pieces” whisper, whether it’s free to wander, and if these factoids are legit. Let’s cut through the noise and get to the good stuff, my way—sharp, curious, and a little cheeky. OK, not a “little.” 

Sculpture: Deacon Photo by Lenny Lensworth Frieling

First off, Loveland’s a bronze-casting mecca, like a Hollywood for statues. The star of the show is Benson Sculpture Garden at 2908 Aspen Drive. It’s not packing 5000 pieces—more like 188 jaw-dropping sculptures by world-class artists, valued conservatively at over $5 million. Think whimsical frogs, kids playing ring-around-the-rosie, and a roller-skating  ripe banana. This 10-acre gem is free to visit year-round, except during the second weekend in August when the Sculpture in the Park event charges a $10 entry fee for its massive show-and-sale (over 2000 pieces on display then, but not permanently). It’s got accessible paths, picnic spots, and a lagoon that’s a birdwatcher’s dream. TripAdvisor ranks it Loveland’s #1 attraction, and it’s been called one of the top 20 contemporary art sites in the USA. Respected? Hell yeah, it draws tens of thousands globally.

Sculpture by Mary Regat. Photo by Lenny Lensworth Frieling.

Then there’s Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra, off Hwy 34. Not 5000 sculptures either, but 82 massive stone pieces by Zimbabwean artists, spread over 26 acres. It’s free, open daily, and weaves Shona culture into its trails—think family, love, and spiritual themes carved from solid rock. It’s a tranquil vibe, perfect for a reflective stroll or a wedding backdrop. Respected for sure, it’s the largest collection of its kind worldwide.

Photo by Lensworth.

The 5000-piece rumor might be a mix-up with the Sculpture in the Park event, where thousands of works (not permanent) pop up annually. Loveland’s got other art spots too, like downtown murals and smaller parks, but Benson and Chapungu are the heavy hitters. Both are free outside event times, wheelchair-friendly, and dog-welcoming. The art world bows to Loveland’s foundries and these gardens, so yeah, they’re as legit as it gets.

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Leonard Frieling Pen Of Justice

• Multi-published and syndicated blogger and author.
• University lectures at University. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels. Numerous lectures for the NORML Legal Committee
• Former Judge
• Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee, Distinguished Counsel Circle.
• Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
• Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML, and prior chair during legalization, as well as pre and post legalization
• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
• http://www.Lfrieling.com