Colorado Longmont, Colorado
Moving to Longmont, Colorado
Longmont, Colorado is emerging as a top destination for professionals, creatives, and families who want the perfect mix of innovation, community, and outdoor living. Located between Boulder and Fort Collins, Longmont offers a high quality of life with a more relaxed pace and better affordability than its neighbors. It’s one of the first U.S. cities to offer gigabit-speed internet citywide through its municipally-owned NextLight network, and it leads in sustainability with clean energy initiatives, water conservation programs, and preserved open spaces. The city is also deeply connected—featuring a growing network of bike paths and greenways, regional transit access, and a vibrant, walkable downtown filled with local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries.
With stunning views of the Rockies and quick access to hiking, paddleboarding at Union Reservoir, and over 40 city parks, Longmont supports an active, outdoor lifestyle. Its cultural scene is just as lively, anchored by public art, community festivals like Rhythm on the River and ArtWalk, and a diverse population that brings global flavor and energy to local events. Longmont continues to grow as a hub for tech, aerospace, and remote work, offering small-town charm with big-city potential—making it one of Colorado’s most dynamic and livable cities.
Longmont by the numbers
City population
City Rank Cost of Living
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Discover Longmont: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Longmont offers a refreshing mix of natural beauty, creative energy, and community charm, making it a perfect destination for those who love to explore locally.
Outdoor Exploration
Surrounded by stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and home to over 1,500 acres of parks and open space, Longmont is a playground for outdoor lovers. Spend a day paddleboarding or kayaking at Union Reservoir, biking along the St. Vrain Greenway, or hiking nearby trails in the foothills. The city’s extensive trail network and well-maintained parks make it easy to stay active year-round.
Culinary Delights
Longmont’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. From food trucks and casual spots to award-winning restaurants, local chefs take pride in crafting dishes with fresh, regional ingredients. The city is also a hotspot for craft beer lovers, with a thriving brewery scene that includes names like Left Hand Brewing and Wibby Brewing—perfect for tasting local flavor in a laid-back atmosphere.
Cultural & Creative Life
Art and creativity thrive in Longmont. Explore local galleries, public murals, and the Longmont Museum, which hosts exhibitions, concerts, and family-friendly events. Cultural festivals, farmers markets, and the city’s lively downtown district bring people together to celebrate the arts, music, and heritage that make Longmont unique.
Whether you're into kayaking at sunrise, sampling craft beer, or browsing handmade art downtown, Longmont invites you to dive into a local experience that’s authentically Colorado.
Sports and Recreation
Sports and Recreation
Active Living in Longmont, Colorado
Longmont is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and active families, offering a blend of scenic beauty, recreational amenities, and community-centered facilities that support year-round exploration and wellness. While Longmont doesn’t host major professional sports teams, its proximity to Boulder and Denver makes it easy to catch a game, while its own offerings provide plenty of ways to stay active and connected.
Outdoor Recreation and Parks
With over 1,500 acres of parks, open spaces, and natural areas, Longmont delivers diverse environments for outdoor play and relaxation. Locals flock to places like Union Reservoir for kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics, or enjoy hiking and birdwatching at Golden Ponds Park and Nature Area. The scenic St. Vrain Greenway connects neighborhoods to nature with miles of multi-use trails ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. Dog parks, playgrounds, disc golf courses, and skate parks round out the city’s well-designed and family-friendly outdoor spaces.
Recreation Centers and Community Sports
Longmont’s rec centers are central to its active lifestyle. The Longmont Recreation Center and Centennial Pool offer state-of-the-art amenities including fitness equipment, swimming pools, gymnasiums, climbing walls, and group fitness classes. Seasonal programs, youth leagues, and sports camps encourage participation at all ages, while senior centers and wellness programs ensure that everyone in the community has access to health and recreation opportunities.
Trails and Natural Escapes
Outdoor adventurers will find easy access to both in-town trails and nearby mountain escapes. The city’s robust network of greenways and paths connects to regional open space systems, allowing hikers and bikers to venture toward Boulder County trails and beyond. Whether you're taking a morning run through McIntosh Lake or planning a weekend hike in the foothills, Longmont offers a seamless balance of convenience and nature.
Proximity to Colorado’s Best
Situated just a short drive from Boulder and Denver, Longmont residents enjoy easy access to professional sports, concerts, skiing, and Rocky Mountain exploration. The city serves as a perfect home base for those who crave adventure, but also appreciate the charm and ease of a close-knit, active community.
In every season, Longmont makes it simple to live well and stay moving, with its blend of open space, modern facilities, and a lifestyle that prioritizes wellness and connection to the outdoors.
Adventures
Adventures
Longmont is a city where small-town charm meets boundless outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for those craving connection with both nature and community. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by sweeping plains, Longmont offers the perfect blend of recreation, local flavor, and cultural exploration—all with stunning views and a relaxed Colorado vibe.
Outdoor Adventures
With over 1,500 acres of parks and open space, Longmont invites year-round exploration through its scenic trails, peaceful lakes, and easy access to the nearby foothills. Popular spots like McIntosh Lake and Union Reservoir provide opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and wildlife watching with Longs Peak towering in the distance. The St. Vrain Greenway connects neighborhoods to natural spaces with miles of trails ideal for walking, biking, or jogging. Just a short drive west opens up endless options for hiking, rock climbing, or snowshoeing in Roosevelt National Forest and the Indian Peaks Wilderness.
- McIntosh Lake Nature Area
- Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland
- Indian Peaks Wilderness
Cultural and Historical Experiences
Longmont’s rich heritage shines through in its vibrant downtown and local landmarks. The Longmont Museum & Cultural Center hosts rotating exhibits and family-friendly events that explore regional history, art, and science. You’ll find creative energy in the city’s public art installations, galleries, and venues like the Firehouse Art Center and the Longmont Theatre Company, where performances and community-driven events bring people together.
Local Flavors and Community Events
From farm-to-table eateries to award-winning craft breweries, Longmont’s culinary scene is rooted in authenticity and local pride. Sample artisan cheeses, enjoy wood-fired pizza at a local food truck, or sip your way through the city’s famous beer trail with stops at Left Hand Brewing and Wibby Brewing. Weekly farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and seasonal events like Rhythm on the River or the Longmont Lights festival keep the calendar full and the community connected.
Unique Shopping and Urban Exploration
Historic Downtown Longmont is a walkable haven of boutique shops, bookstores, cafes, and cozy spots to discover something new. Whether you're browsing handmade goods at a local artisan market or catching live music at a neighborhood brewery, the city’s creative spirit and small-business heart are always on display.
Whether you're here to explore nature, enjoy a concert under the stars, or connect with the community at a local festival, Longmont offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm that makes every visit feel like coming home.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Longmont, Colorado, celebrates every season with events that showcase its creative spirit, strong sense of community, and love for the outdoors. From cultural festivals and holiday lights to local markets and live music, there’s always something happening that brings people together.
Spring: Nature and Neighborhood Gatherings
As the city bursts into bloom, spring in Longmont kicks off with events like Arbor Day celebrations and the annual Clean-Up Green-Up campaign, encouraging residents to beautify their neighborhoods. The Longmont Farmers Market opens for the season at Boulder County Fairgrounds, featuring local produce, artisan goods, and live music.
Summer: Music, Food, and Riverfront Fun
Summer shines with events like Rhythm on the River, Longmont’s signature outdoor festival with live music, art booths, environmental education, and riverfront activities. The Downtown Summer Concert Series brings lively performances to the heart of the city, while Fourth of July fireworks light up the skies over Fox Hill. Foodies and craft beer fans flock to summer block parties and brewery-hosted events across town.
Fall: Harvest Celebrations and Cultural Traditions
Fall in Longmont is full of festive energy, from Oktoberfest celebrations at local breweries to pumpkin patches and corn mazes at nearby farms. One of the region’s most beloved events, Día de los Muertos, brings the community together to honor loved ones through altars, art, music, and dance. Seasonal markets and autumn hikes through colorful landscapes round out the experience.
Winter: Holiday Cheer and Downtown Magic
Winter transforms Longmont into a festive wonderland. Longmont Lights in Roosevelt Park features a tree lighting, fireworks, and a lighted parade, while the Winter Walkabout Music Showcase fills downtown venues with live music from local artists. Holiday markets, ice skating, and neighborhood light displays bring warmth and joy to the colder months.
Each season in Longmont offers its own unique charm, blending local flavor with community pride in ways that make the city feel welcoming year-round.
Community Resources
Longmont offers a strong, community-centered healthcare system supported by top-tier hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics. Residents benefit from access to both local care and nearby world-class facilities in the greater Boulder and Denver metro areas, ensuring a wide range of services—from primary care and emergency medicine to advanced specialty treatments.
Hospitals and Medical Centers:
UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital
The flagship medical facility in Longmont, delivering high-quality, comprehensive care close to home. This modern full-service hospital offers a 24/7 emergency department, surgical services, women’s and children’s care, orthopedics, and advanced imaging technology. As part of the UCHealth network, Longs Peak Hospital connects patients with leading specialists and research-based treatments across Colorado.
Longmont United Hospital
Part of the CommonSpirit Health network, Longmont United has served the community for decades with a focus on whole-person care. It provides general medical and surgical services, maternity care, heart and vascular care, rehabilitation, and outpatient therapies. Known for its personalized approach and community involvement, it’s a trusted healthcare provider for families in and around Longmont.
Children’s Hospital Colorado – Outpatient Care Longmont
Extending world-class pediatric care to the region, offering specialty clinics in fields like cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology, as well as rehabilitation services. This facility is designed to serve children and teens with the same expertise and compassionate care found at the main Children’s Hospital campus in Aurora.
Mental Health and Specialty Services:
Longmont supports mental wellness through a network of behavioral health providers, counseling services, and integrative care programs. UCHealth and Mental Health Partners offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment options, including therapy, substance use services, and crisis intervention. Longmont also features specialty practices in oncology, pulmonary care, sports medicine, and chronic disease management—ensuring patients receive the focused care they need close to home.
UCHealth and Mental Health Partners
With its combination of local hospitals, regional healthcare partnerships, and accessible specialty care, Longmont offers a comprehensive healthcare experience rooted in innovation, compassion, and community connection.
Longmont offers a dynamic and inclusive educational environment that supports learners of all ages—from early childhood through advanced degrees and career training. With access to top-rated public schools, specialized charter and private institutions, and nearby colleges and universities, Longmont is deeply committed to lifelong learning and academic excellence.
Public and Charter Schools:
Longmont is primarily served by the highly regarded St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD), one of Colorado’s most innovative and forward-thinking school systems. SVVSD serves more than 33,000 students across Longmont and surrounding communities, offering a wide range of programs including STEM academies, arts integration, International Baccalaureate (IB), and bilingual education. Standout schools include Silver Creek High School, Flagstaff Academy, Altona Middle School, and Timberline PK-8. The district’s Innovation Center provides hands-on experiences in robotics, aerospace, computer science, and biosciences, preparing students for 21st-century careers.
St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD)
Silver Creek High School
Altona Middle School
Timberline PK-8
Longmont also features several public charter schools such as Flagstaff Academy and Twin Peaks Classical Academy, which emphasize academic rigor, character development, and personalized instruction.
Flagstaff Academy
Twin Peaks Classical Academy
Private and Faith-Based Schools:
Families seeking alternative education models will find a number of private and faith-based schools throughout the area. Institutions like Boulder Country Day School and Blue Mountain Christian Academy offer small class sizes and values-based instruction in supportive environments.
Boulder Country Day School
Blue Mountain Christian Academy
Higher Education & Workforce Training:
Longmont is within close proximity to some of Colorado’s premier higher education institutions. Front Range Community College – Boulder County Campus, located right in Longmont, offers associate degrees, transfer programs, technical certifications, and continuing education options. The college is also a key provider of workforce development and professional training, helping students prepare for high-demand careers in healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and more.
Front Range Community College – Boulder County Campus
Nearby, University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University offer nationally ranked undergraduate and graduate programs, while University of Northern Colorado in Greeley provides access to top-tier education in fields such as education, business, and health sciences.
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Northern Colorado
Lifelong Learning:
Longmont encourages learning at every stage of life. Organizations like the Longmont Public Library offer enrichment programs, workshops, and events for all ages. Community learning initiatives and adult education programs provide accessible paths to skill-building, career advancement, and personal growth.
With its strong public school district, diverse educational options, and pathways to higher education and workforce readiness, Longmont is a community that values and invests in the power of education.
Longmont offers a comprehensive suite of public services and regional resources designed to support the city’s vibrant, diverse, and growing population. Known for its strong civic infrastructure and commitment to sustainability, Longmont ensures a high quality of life for residents through effective governance, dependable utilities, and a forward-thinking approach to community well-being.
City Government & Public Services:
Government & Safety
Longmont operates under a council-manager form of government, with a mayor and seven city council members representing both wards and at-large constituencies. City operations are led by the city manager, who works alongside elected officials to implement policies, strategic planning, and community programs.
City Manager
Mayor and City Council
Longmont Police Department
Committed to community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and public safety, the Longmont Police Department provides a range of services including patrol, investigations, and school resource officers. The department prioritizes transparency and engagement with programs such as Coffee with a Cop and neighborhood watch initiatives.
Longmont Fire Department
The department offers fire suppression, emergency medical response, hazardous materials management, and public education programs. Fire stations are strategically located across the city to ensure rapid response times.
Emergency Communications Center
Longmont's 911 dispatch center coordinates police, fire, and EMS responses citywide, using advanced technology to enhance communication and response efficiency.
Emergency Communications Center
Municipal Court
Handles traffic violations, municipal ordinance cases, and code enforcement. The court promotes restorative justice programs that focus on community accountability and rehabilitation.
Utilities & City Services:
Water & Sustainability
Managed by Longmont Water Utilities, the city provides high-quality drinking water sourced from the St. Vrain watershed. Longmont has a robust water conservation plan, public education initiatives, and a growing emphasis on drought resilience.
Sewer & Storm Drainage
The city maintains modern wastewater treatment facilities and stormwater infrastructure designed to protect public health and local waterways, with ongoing investment in green infrastructure.
Trash, Recycling & Composting
Longmont offers weekly trash and recycling collection and an optional curbside composting program. The city is committed to waste diversion through educational outreach and sustainability incentives.
Trash, Recycling, and Composting
Street & Infrastructure Maintenance:
Year-round services include street resurfacing, pothole repair, snow removal, and sidewalk maintenance, supported by seasonal alerts and citywide improvement plans.
Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship:
Longmont is a leader in municipal sustainability. The Sustainability Office drives programs focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate action, and open space conservation. The city has adopted a Sustainability Plan that aligns with regional and global climate goals.
Transportation & Mobility:
Local Transit
Operated through the Regional Transportation District (RTD) and Via Mobility Services, Longmont offers local and regional bus routes, including FlexRide and service to Boulder and Denver.
Regional Transportation District (RTD)
Via Mobility Services
FlexRide
Bikeways & Trails
Longmont boasts an extensive trail and bikeway network, including the St. Vrain Greenway—a scenic, multi-use path that runs across the city. Longmont’s Envision Longmont plan supports active transportation and future mobility innovations.
St. Vrain Greenway
Envision Longmont
Highways & Road Access
Highways like US-287 and State Highway 119 connect Longmont to nearby communities, with access to I-25 and the Denver metro area within a short drive.
Air Travel
While Longmont does not have a commercial airport, Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 45 minutes away, offering extensive domestic and international flights. Vance Brand Municipal Airport supports general aviation and business travel.
Denver International Airport (DIA)
Vance Brand Municipal Airport
County & State Services:
Longmont residents benefit from services provided by Boulder County, including public health programs, human services, voter registration, and motor vehicle services. Nearby state facilities support driver's licensing, tax assistance, and other government services.
Wellness
Human Services
Longmont DMV
Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, Longmont's public services are rooted in a spirit of community collaboration, smart planning, and resilience—making it a truly livable and well-connected city in the heart of Colorado.
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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.