Grand Junction Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of Colorado, Grand Junction is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa, this charming city is a gateway to an array of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities.

Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as they explore the stunning Colorado National Monument. Towering red rock formations, deep canyons, and panoramic vistas await hikers and bikers along the miles of scenic trails. For a truly awe-inspiring experience, a drive along the Rim Rock Drive is a must, showcasing the mesmerizing beauty of the monument.

Just a short drive from Grand Junction lies the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. Known as the "Island in the Sky," this majestic destination offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. From fishing in pristine mountain lakes to hiking through lush forests, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility and serenity of this natural wonderland.

Back in the city, Grand Junction boasts a vibrant cultural scene that surprises and delights. The Downtown area is a treasure trove of art galleries, boutique shops, and local eateries. Stroll along the tree-lined Main Street and discover unique sculptures, colorful murals, and live music performances that showcase the city's creative spirit.

Wine enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Grand Junction is also a part of the Colorado Wine Country. With over 20 wineries dotting the picturesque landscape, visitors can embark on a wine tasting journey like no other. From award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons to crisp Chardonnays, the region's unique microclimate produces exceptional wines that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

For history buffs, a visit to the Museum of the West is a must. Delve into the rich heritage of the region as you explore exhibits that showcase the Native American cultures, pioneer history, and the impact of mining on the area. The museum also hosts various events and educational programs that provide a deeper understanding of the captivating history of Grand Junction.

Alternative names: Population: 60.4 thous.Area: 39.64 mi²Elevation: 4587 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 39°4'3"N, 108°33'50"W

Location

ColoradoUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Grand Junction Top Attractions

Grand Junction Attractions - What to See and Explore

Grand Junction offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Mount Garfield, Western Colorado Botanical Gardens, Cross Orchards Historic Site, Western Colorado Center for the Arts. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

39°7'28"N • 108°24'37"W
Mount Garfield
Mt. Garfield is the high point of the Book Cliffs, east-northeast of Grand Junction, and overlooking the town of Palisade. Two classic hiking trails ascend the mountain. The mountain was named after President James Garfield a year after Garfield's death. The mountain is composed of Mesaverde Group overlaying Mancos Shale.
Botanical garden • Hiking trail • Park
Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
The Western Colorado Botanical Gardens and Butterfly House is located at 15 acres cite on the bank of Colorado River at the southern end of 7th Street in Grand Junction, Colorado, United States.
Museum • Historical place
Cross Orchards Historic Site
Cross Orchards Historic Site is a living history museum located in Grand Junction, Colorado. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The Orchards are known for showing how life was on an orchard at the turn of the twentieth century and is considered living history as it is still worked and cultivated regularly.

Museum • Art museum • Art gallery
Western Colorado Center for the Arts
The Western Colorado Center for the Arts, also known as The Art Center, is located at 1803 North Seventh Street in Grand Junction, Colorado. Founded in 1953, the art center features four galleries, a gift shop, two enclosed courtyards, and several working studios and classrooms.
Library
Mesa County Public Library District
The Mesa County Public Library District is based in Mesa County, Colorado. The Central Library is located in Grand Junction, Colorado and the other branches are located in Clifton, Fruita, Orchard Mesa, Palisade, Collbran, and De Beque.
39°4'1"N • 108°33'54"W
The Palette
Museum • Paint and pottery studios • Classes and workshops
39°2'57"N • 108°33'29"W
Western Colorado Math & Science Center
Museum • Orchard Mesa Heights
39°6'38"N • 108°36'14"W
Canyon View Park
Hiking trail • Outdoor activities • Park
Church
Handy Chapel
Handy Chapel is the only original church building still standing in the original square mile of Grand Junction, Colorado.
39°4'1"N • 108°33'47"W
Aspen Photo Art Gallery
Museum • Art gallery
39°4'3"N • 108°34'1"W
Hummel Real Estate
-
39°4'36"N • 108°33'43"W
Bray Real Estate
-
Neighbourhood
North Seventh Street Historic Residential District
The North Seventh Street Historic Residential District, in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a 14.4 acres historic district which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. It included 27 contributing buildings.
Universities and schools
Colorado Mesa University
Colorado Mesa University is a public university in Grand Junction, Colorado. The university's other locations include Bishop Campus, which houses Western Colorado Community College in northwestern Grand Junction, and a regional campus in Montrose, Colorado.

Day trips

Grand Junction – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Grand Junction, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Grand View Spire (Colorado National Monument), Coke Ovens (Colorado National Monument), Pipe Organ (Colorado National Monument).

8.7 miW
Rock
Grand View Spire, Colorado National Monument
Grand View Spire is a 5,821-foot-elevation sandstone pillar located in Colorado National Monument, in Mesa County of western Colorado, United States.
8.6 miW
Rock
Coke Ovens, Colorado National Monument
Coke Ovens is a 5,962-foot-elevation linear set of pillars located in Colorado National Monument, in Mesa County of western Colorado, United States. This iconic landmark is situated on the west side of Monument Canyon, two miles south of the monument's visitor center, and 9 miles west of the community of Grand Junction.
9 miW
Rock
Pipe Organ, Colorado National Monument
Pipe Organ is a 5,731-foot-elevation sandstone pillar located in Colorado National Monument, in Mesa County of western Colorado, United States.
6.1 miW
Rock
Terra Tower, Colorado National Monument
Terra Tower is a 5,790-foot-elevation sandstone pillar located in Colorado National Monument, in Mesa County of western Colorado, United States.
9 miW
Rock
Sentinel Spire, Colorado National Monument
Sentinel Spire is a 5,500-foot-elevation sandstone pillar located in Colorado National Monument, in Mesa County of western Colorado, United States.

Show all

Best Time To Visit Grand Junction

Learn when is the best time to travel to Grand Junction weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in March, April, June, July, August and September.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in February, June and December. Most of it rains in October.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Grand Junction?

The top attractions to visit in Grand Junction are:

What is the best time to visit Grand Junction?

May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in March, April, June, July, August and September. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.