For my 30th birthday, I went on an epic trip with Escape Campervans to help me dive into my 30s.
The last stop of my trip was in Grand Junction, where I went to visit my Aunt and Uncle, who live just near the Colorado National Monument.
First off, Grand Junction is FLIPPING GORGEOUS. Even in November, the area was outstandingly beautiful. I can’t even imagine what this place might look like in the summertime (I’ll be going back there this summer, just FYI).
Although it looks like there isn’t much to do in Grand Junction if you are just arriving and don’t know much about the area, it is a wonderful place to be outdoors and experience some things you might not experience anywhere else in Colorado.
So below are some things to do in Grand Junction if you are in that area.
*Note: Before your travels, be mindful of COVID-19 regulations and preventative measures being taken at all areas you plan to visit. Be sure to check in with the locations you are visiting or staying at.
1. Take a Drive or a Hike in the Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument isn’t a National Park, and the locals like it that way because it keeps the population down. No matter the weather, this is a fun place to go on a quick drive. You can start in Fruita, Colorado or Grand Junction, Colorado to enjoy this drive. Within the Colorado National Monument, there are also tons of hikes you can take if you are looking for a little activity. Many of them can lead to overlooks where you can admire the rock formations unique to the area.
2. Marvel at the Bookcliffs at Sunset
This particular photo was viewed from the Colorado National Monument. The sunset was PERFECT as we drove through and finished our day. With the snowy clinging to the Bookcliffs. Can you imagine what these look like in the summertime?? Make sure to take a side trip from your journey through the Colorado National Monument and take a moment to enjoy the sunset on these mountains.
3. Visit Sage Creations Organic Farm and Lavender Field
If you didn’t already know, there is a pretty spectacular organic farm and lavender field not far from Grand Junction in Palisade (home of the peaches). In the summertime, they have full bushes of lavender that you can pick yourself. Not to mention that have a lavender festival as well. Sage Creations Organic Farm has a wonderful store full of lavender creations that you can purchase as well, plus you’ll feel instantly relaxed upon walking in through their purple front doors. Totally worth the visit.
4. Visit the Enstrom Toffee & Confectionary
Photo Credit: Enstrom Toffee & Confectionary
The history of this delightful “candy” store started around 1919, creating delicious toffee treats. Enstrom Toffee & Confectionary was started by Chet Enstrom, who perfect the art of creating toffee. He started making toffee for his friends as gifts, but in 1960, his toffee creations gained a reputation and has been thriving ever since. Their toffee is a perfect little treat after walking downtown or a wonderful gift to bring home to your family and friends.
5. Visit Downtown Grand Junction
Photo Credit: Two Rivers Convention Center
This is a given if you’re pretty much anywhere in any town. There are a pretty spectacular art scene and a variety of cute shops, book stores, thrift stores, and restaurants to see while you are visiting.
6. Have a Bagel at Main Street Bagel
Photo Credit: Main Street Bagels
Main Street Bagel started back in 1995 with the intention of being a bakery that was ahead of its time. They make excellent bagel sandwiches and choose whichever masterfully made baked good you would like to make it happen. They also have a pretty splendid coffee menu to help you wash that delicious bagel down.
Grand Junction is an amazing place to visit and has so much to offer to visitors.
7. Places to Stay in Grand Junction
There are many places you can stay, including some corporate motels. However, I’m encouraging you to visit boutique hotels or mom and pop’s. Small businesses need your love too! Here are some good places to stay.
- Spoke and Vine Motel – Palisade, Colorado
- Two Rivers Winery and Chateau – Grand Junction, Colorado
- Willow Pond – Grand Junction, Colorado
- Castle Creek B & B – Grand Junction, Colorado
