Start on Main Street
Main Street is the heart of Downtown Grand Junction, where wide sidewalks connect locally owned shops, restaurants, gathering spaces and landmarks like the Avalon Theatre. It was even recognized as one of the top main streets in the country by USA Today.
Along the way, Art on the Corner showcases over 115 sculptures, murals and interactive installations. Trees, seasonal flowers, shaded benches and pockets of green space give Downtown its Certified Park designation and offer plenty of places to pause, relax, and take in the scene.
Families will want to make the play area at 5th and Main a stop along their Downtown stroll. Kids can race down the slide, board the pirate ship or try oversized chess and other sidewalk games. Nearby seating and shade make it easy for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids.
Shop, Eat and Spend Time Downtown
Downtown Grand Junction’s independent shops include bookstores, boutiques, galleries, record shops and outdoor outfitters. Find regional travel guides, history books and Native American titles at Grand Valley Books or browse new and used vinyl at Triple Play Records. Other shops carry locally made gifts, clothing, art, outdoor gear and plenty of unexpected finds.
The dining scene offers everything from relaxed breakfast and lunch to memorable dinners and late-night drinks. Enjoy a dish prepared by a James Beard Award nominee at Bin 707 Foodbar or stop by Pablo’s Pizza for specialty pies, salads and paninis. After sunset, sip handcrafted cocktails at SoCo Social or head to Quincy Bar & Grill for late-night music, dancing, drinks and karaoke.
Experience Events & Local History
Downtown Grand Junction hosts events throughout the year that bring visitors and locals together. Summer Thursdays come alive during Market on Main with local farm products, vendors and live music. In September, the Downtown Car Show rolls onto Main Street, followed by the two-day Downtown Art Festival in October. And don’t miss the First Friday Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. Winter brings the Downtown Parade of Lights, when illuminated floats and festive displays fill Main Street with holiday spirit.
Check the calendar for events happening the week before your trip to see which festivals, performances and community celebrations are taking place during your stay.
Make Downtown Your Home Base
Staying Downtown puts restaurants, shops, art and entertainment within an easy walk. Book a room right in the heart of downtown at the historic Hotel Melrose, a beautiful boutique property designed with the utmost attention to detail. Stop by the Melrose Spirit Co. and sip on a perfectly balanced cocktail in a chic and trendy atmosphere. There are several other Downtown Grand Junction hotels to stay at as well!
From there, venture out to the Colorado National Monument nearby, known as the “mini-Grand Canyon” and referred to by the National Park Service as the “Heart of the World.” Start the day among red rock canyons and return to Downtown for lunch, shopping or an evening out.
Explore the Grand Junction Visitor Guide for maps, itineraries and more ideas to help plan your trip.
