Grand Junction Attractions

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com

Grand Junction, on Colorado’s Western Slope, sprawls across the Grand Valley. Many of the things to do in the Grand Junction area are outdoors activities, so book a stay in one of the fantastic Grand Junction hotels- you’re going to need the sleep!

Road cycling near vineyards just outside of Grand Junction. (Colorado Tourism Office)

This section of northwest Colorado has a plethora of outdoors activities, no matter what time of year you visit or which direction you take. Read here for a few ideas to start planning your trip today!

Skiing near Grand Junction
Powderhorn Ski Resort is just 45 minutes outside of Grand Junction, making even a half-day of skiing possible if staying in town. They receive over 250 inches of the legendary Colorado powder each year on this Grand Mesa resort. It is a mostly intermediate level 1,600 acre resort, with 50% of its terrain classified as such. 20% is rated beginner, 15% is advanced and 15% is considered for experts only.

Grand Mesa
This geological formation is the world’s largest flat top mountain. It is covered with stream fed lakes. The Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway is a recommended drive, on which you can admire hundreds of lakes, great high vistas, pretty wildflowers in the summer, and enjoy a cool mountain breeze. Full of lakes and forests, this area is the perfect place to see the change of the aspen trees during autumn. Hiking and trout fishing are also popular ways to spend the day.

Colorado National Monument Park
Explore the beautiful canyons and desert-like landscape either on a bus tour, or with your own car. Every turn will reveal a new gorgeous view! Rimrock Drive is especially recommended for its awesome high vantage points.

Redlands Mesa Golf Club
This course was designed by landscape architect Jim Engh. It has a U.S.G.A. rating of 71.7 and a slope rating of 135. The greens are fast and run true. Some call it a “thinkers” course, so you should talk to a member before teeing off. It will save you a few shots!

Dinosaur Discovery Museum
Life-size robots of dinosaurs and an earthquake simulator are two features at this dinosaur museum. Real dinosaur digs have taken place close to Grand Junction, so theres a lot of local inspirtation!

Grand Junction Motor Speedway
This go-cart course is fun for the whole family! They have carts for children as young as four and their manual shifts go-carts for adults can go up to 125 miles per hour! The speedway is between exits 31 and 37 on I-70 in Grand Junction. Call them at 970-216-6600 for more information.

Wine Tasting in Grand Junction
The Grand Valley in which Grand Junction sits has long been a fruit-growing region, but has begun growing grapes for winemaking. Visit one of the area wineries for a different view of western Colorado! A few popular ones include Graystone Winery, Grand River Vineyards and Whitewater Hill Vineyards.

Western Colorado Center for the Arts
A visit to this museum is a nice activity to contrast with all the outdoors activities you’ll be partaking in while in Grand Junction. It is a non-profit art gallery and studio where you can check out one of their current exhibits or even take an art class!

Western Colorado Botanical Garden
This is a must-see in Grand Junction. It is a 15 acre sit along the Colorado River and includes a tropical greenhouse, a butterfly house, rose garden and orchid display. All are maintained by local gardening organizations.

Rattlesnake Canyon
Red rock has been formed into arches here that echo those found at Utah’s Arches National Park. Don’t forget to bring your camera to record this alien landscape!