Free & Cheap Things to Do in Grand Junction

Parks & Nature

A 23-mile rim drive winds past sheer red-rock canyons, towering sandstone monoliths, and overlooks where bighorn sheep and golden eagles roam. Hiking trails range from easy overlooks to backcountry routes — it's the marquee scenic draw of the Grand Valley.

Address: 1750 Rim Rock Dr, Fruita, CO 81521

Tip: Ten fee-free days in 2026 (including June 14 and July 3–5). Mesa County library cardholders can borrow an entry pass. Drive Rim Rock Drive at sunrise or sunset for the best light; allow 1–2 hours one-way.

Museums & Culture

The flagship of the Museums of Western Colorado tells the Grand Valley's story through Indigenous artifacts, Old Spanish Trail history, uranium-mining relics, historic firearms, and a one-room schoolhouse. Climb the 75-foot Sterling T. Smith Observation Tower for 360-degree valley views.

Address: 462 Ute Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Tip: Bundle with Dinosaur Journey and Cross Orchards on an Experience Pass to save. The observation tower alone is just $2. Open Tuesday–Saturday; ask the front desk about free-admission days.

Museums & Culture

In nearby Fruita, this hands-on paleontology museum brings Western Colorado's prehistoric past to life with real fossils, robotic dinosaurs, a simulated earthquake, and a working fossil-prep lab you can watch. Kids can even join a real dig through the museum's programs.

Address: 550 Jurassic Ct, Fruita, CO 81521

Tip: About 15 minutes west of Grand Junction off I-70 Exit 19. Part of the Museums of Western Colorado Experience Pass. Hours vary by season — check before you go. A must for dinosaur-loving families.

Parks & Gardens

A green desert oasis on the Colorado River, these gardens pack a tropical butterfly house, cactus and rose gardens, and riverside paths into a compact, family-friendly space. A peaceful, low-cost stop with plenty for kids to discover.

Address: 641 Struthers Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Tip: Open Monday–Saturday (closed Sundays); late-week hours run to 7pm in summer. The butterfly house is the highlight. Riverfront Trail access is right alongside, so pair the two.

History & Culture

Once part of a 243-acre apple orchard, this living-history site preserves early-1900s Western Slope farm life with restored packing sheds, vintage farm equipment, heirloom gardens, and original orchard trees. Seasonal demonstrations and a Saturday farmers market bring it to life.

Address: 3073 F Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81504

Tip: Open Thursday–Sunday, 9am–3pm, May through December. The Saturday farmers market (late June–September) adds train rides and live music on select dates. Part of the Experience Pass.

Museums & Culture

Over 100 hands-on STEAM exhibits fill this kid-focused science museum on the CMU campus — land a space shuttle, explore a phosphorescent geology cave, hold a bearded dragon, and experiment with bubbles and physics. Built largely by volunteers, it's pure science fun for families.

Address: 1400 N 7th St, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Tip: SNAP EBT and military get 50% off through Museums for All. Hands-on and energetic — best for younger kids. Hours vary seasonally, so confirm before visiting.

Arts & Culture

One of the country's first outdoor public-art exhibits lines downtown Grand Junction's walkable Main Street with nearly 100 permanent sculptures plus a rotating temporary collection. Strolling the shaded, pedestrian-friendly blocks to discover the art is completely free.

Address: Main St, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Tip: Pick up a sculpture map downtown or just wander Main Street between 1st and 7th. Some pieces are made to be climbed on by kids. Pairs perfectly with downtown's shops and cafes.

Parks & Nature

A wide paved path follows the Colorado River for 28 scenic miles through the Grand Valley, linking parks, wetlands, and wildlife areas all the way toward Loma. Perfect for walking, biking, e-biking, or rollerblading, it's the free backbone of Grand Junction recreation.

Address: Riverfront Trail, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Tip: Several access points around town, including Las Colonias Park, a 130-acre riverfront destination with a lake, playground, and skate park. Watch for the Audubon section where e-bikes aren't allowed. Bring water in summer heat.