Wine lovers and outdoor adventurers, meet your new favorite getaway: Palisade, Colorado! Nestled in Colorado’s Western Slope, Palisade is famous for its vineyards, orchards, and stunning red rock scenery. Explore scenic bike trails, sip local wine, and soak up small-town charm.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Palisade is from late spring to early fall (May through September). This is when vineyards are in full swing, farmers markets thrive, and the weather is perfect for cycling, hiking, and wine tasting.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Palisade is located off I-70, about 15 minutes from Grand Junction and 4 hours from Denver.
  • By Air: Fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), then drive or take a shuttle to Palisade.
  • By Train: Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops in Grand Junction, a short drive away.

Where to Stay

  • Wine Country Inn – Elegant lodging surrounded by vineyards with a pool, restaurant, and wine tastings.
  • Spoke and Vine Motel – Trendy, bike-friendly boutique motel near downtown Palisade.
  • Dreamcatcher Bed and Breakfast – Cozy rooms, homemade breakfasts, and peaceful garden settings.

Top Attractions

  • Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway – Scenic route through orchards and vineyards, perfect for a drive or bike ride.
  • Colorado Riverfront Trail – Paved paths for walking, running, or biking with views of the river and mesas.
  • Mount Garfield Trail – A challenging hike with rewarding views over the Grand Valley and Book Cliffs.
  • Downtown Palisade – Quaint shops, tasting rooms, and galleries in a walkable, Western-style downtown.

For History Buffs: Dig into Local Lore at the Palisade History Museum

Explore railroads, orchards, and the stories that shaped the valley.

For History Buffs: Dig into Local Lore at the Palisade History Museum

© Palisade History Museum

  • What is the Palisade History Museum?
    • The Palisade History Museum might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to showcasing the rich history of the town.
  • When did the museum open?
    • The museum first opened to the public in 2021 and has since attracted more than 1,200 visitors.
  • Where is the museum located?
    • The museum is housed in a historic log-cabin building that was built prior to 1939. It formerly served as the office of a freight hauling company.
  • What can visitors see at the museum?
    • The museum is filled with interesting articles, photos, and documents that tell the story of Palisade in the 1900s.
  • Who operates the museum?
    • The museum is primarily staffed by volunteers who are passionate about preserving Palisade’s history.
  • When is the museum open?
    • The museum is open to the public four days a week, operating all year round.

Palisade History Museum, 3740 G Road, Palisade, CO 81526, 970 242 0971

Visit Local Vineyards, Distilleries & Wineries

Raise a Glass at Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room

Sip fruit-forward blends with Colorado flair in a cozy setting.

Raise a Glass at Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room

© Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room

  • What is Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room?
  • What makes Carlson Vineyards unique?
    • The winery is run by people who are passionate about wine and excited to share their knowledge and amazing products with all visitors.
  • What is the outdoor setting like?
    • The backyard is surrounded by vineyards and gorgeous flowering gardens, making it a perfect place to relax and sip wine under the Colorado sun.
  • What is the tasting room like?
    • The comfy tasting room is designed to accommodate guests in all weather conditions, ensuring a welcoming experience year-round.

461 35 Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-5554

Slow Down and Savor at Hermosa Vineyards

Taste boutique wines where passion meets Palisade’s terroir.

Slow Down and Savor at Hermosa Vineyards

© Hermosa Vineyards

  • What makes Hermosa Vineyards special?
    • This cozy little winery has received awards as one of the best wineries outside of California in the US, producing a selection of exceptional wines.
  • What types of red wines does Hermosa Vineyards produce?
    • The winery produces amazing red wines, including:
      • Cabernet Franc
      • Merlot
      • Syrah
  • What types of white wines are available?
    • Their selection of white wines includes:
      • Gewürztraminer
      • Chardonnay
      • Viognier
      • Rkatsiteli
      • Muscat Blanc
  • What is unique about Hermosa Vineyards’ cherry wine?
    • The winery offers a unique and delicious cherry wine, a fortified dessert wine made from local cherries grown on-site.
  • What can visitors expect from a tasting experience?
    • A visit to Hermosa Vineyards’ tasting room means an intimate and personalized experience, often hosted by the owner himself.
    • Guests are taken on a guided tour through the wines and products available, as well as an introduction to the winemaking process.

3269 3/4 C Road, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-640-0940

Experience the Art of Blending at Talon Wine Brands

Sample bold varietals crafted with heart and heritage.

Experience the Art of Blending at Talon Wine Brands

© Talon Wine Brands

  • What is the history of Talon Wine Brands?
    • The family behind Talon Wine Brands has been involved in the winemaking industry since the 1970s, starting with Ravenswood Winery in California.
  • When did the Foster family establish their winery in Colorado?
    • In 2005, the Foster family opened the Colorado Wine Room, serving some of the most delicious wines from Colorado, featuring both well-known and rare varieties.
  • How did the Talon label begin?
    • The family soon started making their own wines under the Talon label, named for Glenn Foster’s love of falconry.
  • How has the winery grown over time?
    • The winery started in a small 12’ x 15’ room, but today it operates in a large facility and has significantly expanded production.
  • What other brands are part of Talon Wine Brands?
    • Over time, the Talon label has grown to include Meadery of the Rockies and St. Kathryn Cellars.
  • What can visitors expect from Talon Wine Brands?
    • Their selection of wines and meads is diverse and delicious, offering something for everyone, from traditional wines to unique, locally inspired creations.

3701 G Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-1300

Distill Adventure at Peach Street Distillers

Try handcrafted spirits made from locally grown fruit—with serious kick.

Distill Adventure at Peach Street Distillers

© Peach Street Distillers

  • What is Peach Street Distillers?
    • Peach Street Distillers is a small-batch distillery based in the heart of Palisade, just off Main Street, creating premium spirits using the region’s abundant fruit and grains.
  • What types of spirits does Peach Street Distillers produce?
    • Their products feature striking, attractively designed labels and include:
      • Jackelope Gin
      • Colorado Bourbon
      • Smoke Rye Whiskey
      • Goat Vodka
      • A variety of fruit liqueurs
  • What fruit-based spirits do they offer?
    • Peach Street Distillers produces amazing brandies, including:
      • Pear Brandy
      • Peach Brandy
      • Apricot Brandy
    • They also craft fruity Eau de Vie in flavors such as:
      • Plum
      • Cherry
  • What other spirits are part of their collection?
    • Additional offerings include Grappa, Agave, Amaro, and more, making for a diverse and well-rounded selection of spirits.
  • Where can visitors try Peach Street Distillers’ spirits?
    • The best way to experience their creations is at the Peach Street Distillers tasting room, which is open daily for guests.
  • Are tours available at Peach Street Distillers?
    • Yes, they offer guided tours of the facilities, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their craft distilling process.

144 Kluge Ave, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-1128

Toast Tradition at Varaison Vineyards and Winery

Step into old-world elegance and European-style wines.

Toast Tradition at Varaison Vineyards and Winery

© Varaison Vineyards and Winery

  • What is Varaison Vineyards and Winery?
  • What style of wines does Varaison create?
    • Varaison produces Old World-inspired wines, crafted with passion and a commitment to traditional European winemaking techniques.
  • Has Varaison received international recognition?
    • Yes, their wines have been featured at the Paris Wines and Spirits Expo, where they were compared in a blind tasting to some of the most prestigious wines in France and performed exceptionally well.
  • What can visitors experience at Varaison Vineyards and Winery?
    • A visit to Varaison allows guests to experience the love and passion that goes into their winemaking at their gorgeous estate.
  • What features does the winery offer?
    • The estate includes:
      • A peaceful rose garden for relaxation
      • A patio seating area with a firepit, perfect for enjoying wine outdoors
      • A wood-fired pizza oven where visitors can enjoy delicious food alongside their wines

405 W 1st St, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-4928

Uncork Views and Vibes at Mesa Park Vineyards

Family-owned, scenic, and flavorful—just like Palisade itself.

Uncork Views and Vibes at Mesa Park Vineyards

© Mesa Park Vineyards

  • What is Mesa Park Vineyards?
    • Mesa Park Vineyards is a picturesque winery set against the neat rows of vineyards, with a backdrop of the blue Colorado sky and the rocky peaks and mesas of the Western Slope of the Rockies.
  • What kind of wines does Mesa Park Vineyards produce?
    • Mesa Park specializes in delicious estate-grown wines, with a focus on high-quality red wines.
  • Have their wines won any awards?
    • Yes, many of their red wines, including the Family Reserve Red, Cab Franc, and Merlot, have all received awards for their excellence.
  • What can visitors experience at Mesa Park Vineyards?
    • At the tasting room, visitors can enjoy a taster or a glass of wines that are grown and created on-site.
    • Guests can sip their wine while surrounded by the big wooden casks where new wine is being aged, enhancing the immersive experience.

3321 C Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-628-9113

Sip Creatively at Red Fox Cellars

Discover daring ciders, barrel-aged wines, and edgy experiments.

Sip Creatively at Red Fox Cellars

© Red Fox Cellars

  • What is Red Fox Cellars?
    • Red Fox Cellars is a family-run winery known for creating unique and adventurous wines.
  • What makes Red Fox Cellars different?
    • The family behind the winery was not formally trained in winemaking, but they are not afraid to experiment.
    • Through bold innovation, they believe they have perfected their winemaking technique to create exciting flavors in every bottle.
  • What can visitors try at Red Fox Cellars?
    • Guests can visit the tasting room to try a variety of wines, ciders, and wine cocktails in a comfortable and homey environment.
  • When is the tasting room open?
    • The tasting room’s hours change depending on the season, so visitors should check the website before making plans to visit.

695 36 Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-1099

Fuel Your Artistic Side at The Blue Pig Gallery

Find inspiration among vibrant works by local and regional artists.

Fuel Your Artistic Side at The Blue Pig Gallery

© The Blue Pig Gallery

  • What is The Blue Pig Gallery?
    • The Blue Pig Gallery is Downtown Palisade’s premier art gallery, offering a space to admire and purchase unique artwork.
  • What types of art are on display at The Blue Pig Gallery?
    • The gallery features a diverse collection of artwork in various mediums, including:
      • Paintings
      • Blown glass
      • Sculptures
      • Photography
      • And much more
  • What is "The Piglet" at The Blue Pig Gallery?
    • The Piglet is the Blue Pig Gallery’s gift shop, offering a variety of keepsakes and unique gifts.
  • What can visitors purchase at The Piglet gift shop?
    • Visitors can find beautiful and handcrafted items, including:
      • Jewelry
      • Accessories
      • Ceramic pottery
      • Other lovely gifts to take home or give to someone special

101 W 3rd St, Palisade, CO 81526, Phone: 970-464-4819

Where to Eat

  • Pêche. Restaurant – Farm-to-table fine dining with seasonal menus and regional wine pairings.
  • Slice O Life Bakery – Beloved local bakery serving breakfast, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
  • Palisade Café & Wine Bar – Classic comfort food with a modern twist and local wine options.

Local Events

  • Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival (June) – Live music, camping, and food trucks in scenic Riverbend Park.
  • Palisade Peach Festival (August) – Celebrate the region’s most famous fruit with tastings, tours, and fun for all ages.
  • Palisade Holiday Marketplace (December) – Seasonal crafts, local goods, and small-town holiday spirit.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Palisade, Colorado

  • Grand Junction (15–20 min) – Visit museums, shop downtown, or hike the Colorado National Monument’s scenic trails.
  • Fruita (25–30 min) – Mountain bike world-class trails, visit Dinosaur Journey Museum, or explore charming downtown cafés.
  • Clifton (10–15 min) – Enjoy local parks, wine tasting rooms, and easy access to Palisade’s orchards and vineyards.
  • Orchard Mesa (15–20 min) – Discover scenic farmland, wineries, and quiet neighborhoods near the Colorado River.
  • Fruitvale (20–25 min) – Explore suburban comforts, community parks, and convenient dining near Grand Junction’s east side.
  • Whitewater (25–30 min) – Hike desert canyons, visit scenic overlooks, or enjoy a peaceful drive through the countryside.
  • Loma (30 min) – Explore trails and river access, or enjoy scenic drives through open high desert and farmland.
  • Gateway Canyons (Start) (30 min) – Begin your scenic drive toward red rock canyons and desert beauty southwest of Palisade.

FAQ

  • Where is Palisade located?
    • Palisade is located on the Western Slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, offering stunning natural scenery and a welcoming small-town charm.
  • What is Palisade known for?
    • The town is well known throughout the region for its vineyards and spectacular peach orchards, producing some of the best fruit and wine in Colorado.
  • What attractions can visitors explore in Palisade?
    • Palisade is filled with an abundance of beautiful nature, making it a great place for outdoor adventures.
    • The town boasts great bars, restaurants, breweries, and wineries that showcase local flavors and craftsmanship.
  • Why do visitors keep returning to Palisade?
    • With its breathtaking landscapes, delicious peaches, and award-winning wines, visitors often find themselves coming back for more.

At a Glance


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and peach blossoms in bloom. Wine Country Inn – A charming stay surrounded by vineyards. Visit Palisade Peach Orchards – See the famous trees blooming before the summer harvest.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for wine tastings and outdoor activities. The Spoke and Vine Motel – A stylish and bike-friendly boutique motel. Tour the Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway – Enjoy wine tasting and fresh local produce.
Fall (September-November) – Harvest season with cooler weather and stunning vineyard colors. Dreamcatcher Bed & Breakfast – A cozy and scenic retreat. Attend the Colorado Mountain Winefest – Celebrate the grape harvest with tastings and live music.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The Homestead Bed & Breakfast – A warm and inviting winter retreat. Visit a Winery in the Off-Season – Enjoy intimate tastings without the crowds at local vineyards.

Palisade, Colorado Weather by Month:

Month High (°F) Low (°F) Precip. (in) Conditions
January 40 15 1.0 Cold & Snowy
February 45 18 1.2 Cold & Snowy
March 55 25 1.5 Chilly & Rainy
April 65 35 1.8 Mild & Rainy
May 75 45 2.0 Pleasant
June 85 55 1.5 Warm & Dry
July 90 60 1.0 Hot & Dry
August 88 58 1.0 Warm & Dry
September 78 45 1.5 Mild & Pleasant
October 65 35 1.8 Cool & Crisp
November 50 25 2.0 Chilly & Rainy
December 40 18 1.5 Cold & Snowy

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