Sterling is a trade center for the extensive farming and ranching operations in northeastern Colorado and southwestern Nebraska. It is also headquarters for much of the oil and gas activity in this part of the state. Fishing and other water sports are available at three area reservoirs.
The City of Living Trees, located in various spots throughout town, are carved tree sculptures that include five giraffes looking upward, a clown in the park, a minuteman guarding the armory, and a butterfly on a vine. Brochures are available at the information center on I-76.