Photo By: @lilyapakova
6 Minute Read
Grand Junction is known as a premier outdoor recreation destination; however, it is also known for being the fruit capital of Colorado. Apricots, cherries, grapes and apples are just a few of the fruit varieties that thrive in the area thanks to the temperate climate. Grand Junction’s unique combination of warm days, cool nights, mineral rich soil and high elevation creates some of the juiciest fruit in the world. The most famous crop is the Palisade Peach - juicier and sweeter than the Georgia Peach. You can harvest these delicious delicacies starting in mid-August and ending around mid to late September.
Pick Your Own Peaches
While it’s common to find peach stands lining the streets in Grand Junction, some would argue that biting into a fresh peach picked off the tree is the true Palisade Peach experience. Fruit Basket Orchards in Grand Junction is one of the few farms in the area where you can pluck a peach yourself. This family-owned orchard and farm store some of the freshest and most flavorful fruits you can imagine. The best part is they also grow cherries, plums, apricots, nectarines, apples, and berries on their 7.5-acre property – all of which you can pick yourself!
Peachfork Orchards & Vineyards in Palisade is another orchard where you can pick your own peaches. Make a peach-filled day of it and pack some homemade sandwiches from The Hog & The Hen or 7th Street Community Cafe for a picnic in the peach orchards or on their breezy outdoor patio. Complement your picnic with a bottle of their semi-sweet peach wine. Not only is it made with Palisade Peaches, all of the peaches used to make the wine are grown onsite and crafted into the perfect semi-sweet vino. You can also learn more about Peachfork’s history at one of their free tours!
Market on Main
Every Thursday from July 11 to September 26, 2024, Market on Main in Downtown Grand Junction is the place to find the freshest produce in the area, including the prized Palisade Peach. The farmers market includes art vendors, entertainment, yard games, makers’ products, and one-stop-shop produce stands. You will find the popular Palisade Peach and other locally grown fruits and vegetables such as cherries, tomatoes, celery, apples, apricots, carrots, and much more! Taste-testing is encouraged throughout the farmer’s market, and if you are still hungry, check out Food Truck Alley or relax at one of the restaurants, many of which have outdoor patios. For inspiration on delicious ways to use Palisade Peaches, check out this Palisade Peach Recipe blog.
Bin 707 Foodbar
Bin 707 Foodbar in Downtown Grand Junction embraces the seasons with a menu that evolves throughout the year and highlights ingredients at their peak. During Palisade peach season, the region’s signature fruit often finds its way into thoughtfully crafted dishes and drinks that showcase both creativity and local flavor. Whether stopping in for dinner, cocktails, or dessert, Bin 707 delivers a dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the season and the area’s agricultural roots.
Bistro 317
Downtown Grand Junction’s French inspired Bistro 317 is serving up the sweets with freshly baked peach tarts made from scratch using Palisade Peaches. If you’re looking for something to sip on, consider the Palisade Peach Mule. It is refreshing and delicious and is best enjoyed in their relaxing lounge area or outdoor patio. Bistro 317 also has an extensive wine and martini menu, so sit back and enjoy quality time with friends while sipping a cocktail before diving into authentic French cuisine.
Tacoparty
Tacos, peaches, and a “party”—what more could you ask for? Tacoparty in Downtown Grand Junction brings a playful approach to seasonal flavors, with a menu that changes throughout the year to highlight ingredients sourced from around the region. When Palisade peach season arrives, keep an eye out for peach-inspired specials and don’t miss the seasonal soft serve—one of the most anticipated treats of the summer.
Carlson Vineyards Downtown Tasting Room
Among the dozens of antique stores, boutique shops, and trendy local restaurants in Downtown Grand Junction, sits Carlson Vineyards Downtown Tasting Room. Stop by and enjoy a wine flight in a relaxing setting while friendly staff shares interesting information about the winery. Be sure to include the famous Peach Wine to your flight. It has a bright, peachy nose full of fruit flavors. The Tree Ripe White is another popular selection, which is a refreshing blend of peach and Gewürztraminer.
Clark & Co.’s Distillery
Clarks Orchards was one of the first orchards in the Grand Junction area, so it is no surprise they offer a wide variety of peach products. They have expanded their offerings and recently opened a Clark & Co.’s Distillery on site, inspired by Grandpas moonshine recipe from decades ago. Located on the bank of the Colorado River, you can sit back and enjoy a Pebble on the Beach made with Grandpa Larry’s Peach Moonshine, Colorado River Rum, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and a splash of lime. For a refreshing and caffeinated cocktail, check out Larry’s Peach Tea made with Palisade Peach Moonshine and Iced Tea. For a non-alcoholic option, the Sweet Peach Tea is the perfect option. You can even take these peachy spirits home with you by buying a bottle of their Palisade Peach Moonshine or their new Peach Whiskey.
There is no better place to sink your teeth into a Palisade Peach than Grand Junction, Colorado! Whether you visit for the fruits of the season or for your next thrilling outdoor adventure, make Grand Junction the destination for your next vacation!
Plan your peach-centered visit using the personalized itineraries on pages 34-40 of the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide!