Grand Junction, Colorado is the town that I grew up in. Set in between the Grand Mesa, the Bookcliffs and the Colorado National Monument, the area is beautiful and draws in thousands of tourists each year. Unfortunately, it is a trend among the young locals of Grand Junction to constantly complain about the lack of activities the valley has to offer. Although Junction is not a large city, it does offer many fun and exciting activities for young people, no matter what they are looking to do. Many of these activities are unique to Grand Junction, fueling the eccentricity of the town. I've put together a list of 30 activities that young people can do Grand Junction. I hope this can help clear the boredom epidemic that has struck the valley.
1. Visit the Colorado National Monument for a day. Hike, take pictures, and enjoy the beauty.
2. Get your jump on at the Get Air Silo. There is also a "Ninja Warrior" course that is awesome.
3. Get some gelato at Gelato Junction.
4. Play laser tag, mini golf, bumper boats and more at Bananas Fun Park.
5. Go taste some free wine out in Palisade (only if you're 21 of course).
6. Climb Mt. Garfield. Try not to die.
7. Responsibly float the Colorado River. Remember, the river can be deadly so please wear a life jacket.
8. Bike, run, or walk the Palisade Rim Trail. This is gorgeous all year round.
9. Go to the Junction Farmer's Market on Thursday nights.
10. Go to the Palisade Farmer's Market on Sunday mornings.
11. Go ice skating at Glacier Ice Arena. This is great on a hot summer's day.
12. Go frolf-ing on the CMU campus. The new course runs directly through the center of campus.
13. Go rock climbing at the Grand Valley Climbing Gym.
14. Swim and tan at the Lincoln Park and Palisade Pools.
15. Visit the Fruita Rec Center. They have a cool water slide.
16. Drive out to the desert with friends at night and stargaze.
17. Have a picnic at Canyon View Park (and maybe play on the playground).
18. Get some ice cream at Graff Dairy. I suggest chocolate-vanilla swirl.
19. Drive up to the Mesa and take a hike or go fishing.
20. Have a fancy dinner date downtown. Or a casual one.
21. Get good food and good music at The Warehouse 2565.
22. Paint a masterpiece at The Palette.
23. Go see a movie at Regal Cinemas.
24. Witness a theatrical performance at the Avalon. They also show movies!
25. Get your race on at the Grand Junction Motor Speedway.
26. Turn up at Thunderstruck Valley (again, you have to be of age).
27. Visit the downtown library. They have everything.
28. Go bowling at Freeway Bowl.
29. Support the local university and go watch a sporting event.
30. Visit the animals at Roice-Hurst and give them some love.
If you do happen to be a GJ native, I hope this list reminds you of how entertaining this town can be. If you are new to Grand Junction, now you know that you will never get bored while in the valley. Try new things, get involved, and get active!
