Western Colorado’s largest city, Grand Junction, is a sunny “high desert” getaway surrounded by dramatic topography like the 11,000-foot Grand Mesa outcropping. While much of its pleasures are timeless ones, there are some inviting fresh offerings for planners to peruse.
The handsome and historic Avalon Theatre is getting a multimillion-dollar facelift that will include the addition of 150 new seats, bringing total seating to 1,150, and also the integration of audiovisual and acoustical upgrades. The 1923 venue has hosted performers ranging from Al Jolson to Pat Benatar, and also presents numerous indie and foreign film series. Tours are available, and the theater is also available for private rentals. The facelift is expected to wrap by June 1.
The active community has also added some new outdoor experiences ideal for groups. Rapid Creek Cycles now operates a combo bike rental tour through wine country followed up by a lazy float down the Colorado River from nearby Palisade to Grand Junction. The outfitter offers other organized bike outings as well, in addition to straightforward rentals for groups wanting to do their own thing.
Another fresh possibility is the Steadfast Steeds Mustang horse sanctuary, run by husband and wife team Blaine and Tracy Scott. The unique enclave is dedicated to the health and freedom of the wild mustang, and offers special sessions for small groups wherein the animals’ herd dynamics and interaction is studied to gain greater understanding—of not just horses, but group connectivity in general. Individual sessions are available, and group tours of the ranch are also popular.
