Whether you are on a budget or not, finding free things to do is always a bonus and makes the experience a little more fun! Grand Junction offers a wide range of free ways to stay entertained. From riverside trails and city parks to scenic drives, public art and a walkable downtown, the area's diverse landscapes make it easy to add sightseeing, outdoor recreation and local culture to your itinerary throughout the year.
Explore Outdoor Activities
Outdoor recreation is one of the best ways to experience Grand Junction. While the Nature's Trifecta, comprising Colorado National Monument, Grand Mesa and Rattlesnake Canyon Arches, includes some attractions and areas with fees or access requirements, you'll also find plenty of parks, trails and outdoor spaces free of cost.
Walk, Bike & Explore on Land
The Colorado Riverfront Trail offers a readily accessible, no-cost way to enjoy Grand Junction. This 28-mile paved path follows the Colorado River, creating opportunities to walk, bike, rollerblade, run or simply appreciate the sights and sounds of the river while watching the variety of birds and other wildlife that thrive along its cottonwood-lined banks. Whether you're looking for an active outing or a peaceful escape, the trail connects parks, lakes, public art, and scenic viewpoints throughout the city.
Las Colonias Park combines open space, river access and connections to the Riverfront Trail all in one location. A long water channel, two standing wave water features, bike trails, ponds, a beach and wading areas make it a convenient stop if you’re looking to spend time outside without committing to a lengthy hike.
Canyon View Park has playgrounds, jungle gyms, athletic fields, trails and open space that give kids room to burn off energy while you enjoy a relaxed outdoor setting.
Columbine Park is another free place to stretch your legs on over 12 acres of beautiful grass and courts. Its playground, basketball and sand volleyball courts provide plenty of room for a quick break between other activities.
Hikers can hit the trails in the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, while experienced mountain bikers can tackle rides across the Lunch Loops trail system.
Splash Into River & Water-Based Activities
The Colorado River, ponds and nearby waterways add another dimension to a Grand Junction visit. Bringing your own equipment can turn several activities into no-cost outings.
Paddling is always a popular option. Anyone with their own kayak or paddleboard can access public areas such as the Butterfly Pond at Las Colonias Park, giving you a free way to spend time on the water while taking in views of the surrounding landscape.
Floating is a great option for cooling off in the Colorado River during the warmer months. Just bring your own kayak or canoe and float a scenic section of the river. Before heading out, review these Colorado River tubing tips and reference U.S.G.S Colorado water conditions.
Fishing is an affordable opportunity to enjoy the region. Colorado fishing regulations apply, and anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license. Additional licensing may be required for non-residents. Once licensed, visitors can find fishing spots throughout the Grand Junction area, including on the Colorado River.
Wildlife viewing highlights a quieter side of the region's waterways. Areas like the Audubon Nature Preserve on the Audubon Trail attract a variety of birds and other wildlife during the year, offering a rewarding experience for anyone interested in photography and birdwatching. Colorado National Monument is abundant with wildlife as well, the most famous being bighorn sheep.
Enjoy Scenic Drives & Sightseeing
Some of the best sightseeing in Grand Junction unfolds through the car window. Scenic byways and mountain roads allow you to view dramatically different landscapes at your own pace.
The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway travels through red-rock passages, geologic formations and remote stretches of western Colorado. The drive passes through unspoiled, dramatic canyon country, with numerous points of interest along the way.
The Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway offers a different perspective. Split into three routes, driving or biking this byway gives you a chance to encounter orchards, lavender fields, vineyards, wineries and agricultural areas. The route itself remains free, while stops for food, wine or produce are optional.
Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway delivers another top sightseeing drive. Across 63 miles, you'll travel through four ecological zones as you climb to 6,000 ft. Admire lakes, meadows, aspen foothills and alpine forests.
Discover Free Art & Culture
Downtown Grand Junction pairs public art with walkable streets and local culture.
Art on the Corner turns a stroll through Downtown Grand Junction into a self-guided open-air art show. More than 115 sculptures are displayed throughout the area, giving you a free way to take in public art as you explore the city center.
You can spend a few minutes viewing individual works or dedicate an afternoon to exploring the collection. While downtown, squeeze in some window shopping and browse a few local shops. There are no franchises in Downtown Grand Junction, so the boutique shops are filled with unique items and gifts.
Museum of the West offers Free First Fridays every first Friday of the month, allowing you to explore the observation tower and permanent exhibits, where you can learn more about the history of Western Colorado. It’s the perfect stop to learn more about the people, cultures, and history that shaped western Colorado.
Events & Community Experiences
Many of Grand Junction's events are free to attend, making them an easy addition to a budget-friendly itinerary.
Market on Main occurs every Thursday from July to late September. This farmers market brings together local vendors, food producers, entertainment and community gathering space in the heart of downtown. You can browse the market, enjoy the atmosphere and delight in one of Grand Junction's seasonal traditions without purchasing a thing. Stop by the Visit Grand Junction booth at 6th and Main Street for free popsicles, Enstrom Toffee and lawn games.
On the first Friday of every month, First Friday Art Walk is another free chance to connect with the local arts community. Galleries, studios and participating venues welcome guests to view exhibits while spending an evening downtown and at the Art Center of Western Colorado at 1803 N 7th St.
Beyond Market on Main and First Friday Art Walk, no-cost social events take place throughout the week. Handlebar Tap House hosts free trivia every Tuesday evening. Additionally, live music performances regularly take place at breweries, bars and gathering spaces in the area, often with no charge.
The Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park occasionally hosts free community events and gatherings, and you can catch well-known acts for a reasonable ticket price.
Browse the events that are happening during your visit to discover additional no-cost things to do.
Plan Your Getaway to Grand Junction
Grand Junction offers a mix of free outdoor recreation, sightseeing drives, downtown public art and community events that make it a breeze to build an itinerary on almost any budget.
Explore all local activities and attractions to continue planning your Grand Junction getaway and make the most of your time with us.