A Perfect Weekend Getaway to Grand Junction

Colorado’s wine country is becoming a popular two-day destination for both thrill-seeking adventurers and discriminating foodies…or anyone who consider themselves a hybrid of both.

 

How much unforgettable activity can you pack into 48 hours?

DAY 1

Morning

Wake up to a beautiful Colorado morning in one of the tranquil and cozy bed and breakfast inns around Grand Junction, like the Castle Creek, Two Rivers Winery & Chateau, or Willow Pond. Make sure to fuel up well, because you’ll need the energy for the day ahead. 

Start your trip off with a hike at the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction's backyard. Explore winding trails that lead to breathtaking views of red rock canyons, striking monoliths, and even waterfalls. You can easily spend the day here looking for Bighorn Sheep or counting colorful collard lizards. Be sure to bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and plenty of water and snacks.

Afternoon

Take a lunch break at Spoons Bistro & Bakery, where sales from their hearty and tasty offerings support HopeWest, a local hospice. Spoon's has a delightful menu with many local favorites like loaded baked potatoes and mountainous salads. 

Rent an ebike from Brown Cycles on Main Street. Now you’re ready to take on the scenic, 25-mile Fruit and Wine Byway along the East Orchard Mesa area.   

Orchard Mesa, like it's name, is full of orchards. It'll be tough to bike the whole way when their fruit stands, picturesque views, and friendly locals along the way.

Evening

The morning hike and challenging bike ride along with an afternoon chock-full of winery hopping has left you tired and hungry. So treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at the Bin 707 Foodbar, with its menu of creative entrees. Try the lobster pot pie or Colorado lamb tenderloin…with some local wine, of course. To cap off the evening, walk around downtown’s Main Street for some great window (or actual) shopping and people watching.

DAY 2

Morning 

Today is for relaxing. Sleep in, if you like, and leisurely enjoy your breakfast at your chosen B&B. If you’re feeling a little sore from yesterday’s intense activities, then you’re perfectly entitled to pamper yourself with a massage. After you’ve completely de-stressed, consider having something out of the ordinary for lunch at Nepal Restaurant, or Aztecas Family Mexican Restaurant.

Afternoon

You’re not quite done with your wine tasting adventures – after all, you might have only visited just a handful of the twenty-plus wineries in Grand Junction. But since this is a day to take it easy, hire a limousine or shuttle to take you to the more outlying wineries around Grand Junction and Palisade. Not only will your driver give you a tour of the area, you’ll get to safely taste more delectable wines and not worry about driving yourself. 

Today’s winery tour includes Two Rivers, and Reeder Mesa. Because of their locales, get ready to experience some breathtakingly remote Colorado scenery at these places.

Evening

Your mini-holiday in Grand Junction is almost over, so celebrate your final night with one of the area’s finest dining experiences at 626 on Rood, known for its creative interpretations of American cuisine, or drop by local Italian favorite Il Bistro Italiano. If you didn’t get to visit all the wineries and do all the activities you were hoping to, remember you can always come back for another visit soon.