Sarah Kuta wrote: "Grand Junction is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets, even over busy holiday weekends. Situated at the far western edge of the state, this mid-sized town offers unparalleled access to the surrounding high-desert wilderness—more than 1.5 million acres of public lands, to be exact. Whether you hit up a mountain bike trail, go off-roading, paddle the Colorado River, or hike around, you’re likely to have acres of nature all to yourself.
And if sipping a glass of wine on a patio and indulging in fine dining are more your style, Grand Junction has that, too. It’s surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and farms, which have given rise to an off-the-charts food and beverage scene. We recommend Bin 707 Foodbar and Tacoparty—both owned by pro-snowboarder-turned-pro-chef Josh Niernberg—as well as 626 on Rood, Two Rivers Winery & Chateau, and Highlands Distillery. Book a room at The Maverick, a boutique hotel with tasteful collegiate decor situated on the campus of Colorado Mesa University."