Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Montrose, CO

  • Published 2022/12/21

Nestled in historic southwest Colorado is the scenic town of Montrose brimming with rich history and outdoor adventure idyllic for a fun weekend getaway.

Whether you’re seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure or a place to socialize, rejuvenate, and relax, Montrose has whatever you’re looking for in a perfect trip.

A trip to Montrose will totally make for a memorable trip for the young and the young at heart alike.

Are you trying to complete your trip itinerary on your visit to Montrose?

Then read on for the 20 best things to do in Montrose, Colorado!

Learn About the Ute Life and Culture at Ute Indian Museum

Exterior of Ute Indian Museum

Denverjeffrey, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another destination for an educational trip suitable for history buffs is the Ute Indian Museum.

The museum showcases the history of the Ute tribe of Native Americans through its expansive collection of artifacts and historic structures of the tribe.

Enrich your trip to Montrose by learning about the Ute tribe’s rich origin, traditions, and hardships.

Indian teepee at Ute Indian Museum

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

You can also grab a unique souvenir from their gift shop offering hand-made crafts inspired by the Ute culture.

The Ute Indian Museum may be small, but you’ll be surprised by the informative exhibits that will welcome you on your visit to this gem in Montrose.

Learn About the Town’s Heritage at the Museum of the Mountain West

Farmhouse at Museum of the Mountain West

Arina P Habich / Shutterstock.com

A trip to the Museum of the Mountain West is an essential stop when visiting Montrose in Colorado.

The museum houses a vast collection of over 500,000 historical artifacts and memorabilia dedicated to celebrating the Old West culture.

Aside from the extensive collection of artifacts, you can stroll through the museum to see a number of preserved historic properties, like log cabins, Western town stores, and many more.

History buffs will surely appreciate the amount of dedication put into this place by one man who started this collection at the tender age of four, and this well-curated museum will make you experience the Old West culture.

So prepare for a fun learning experience on your visit to the museum.

Go on an Exciting Outdoor Adventure at Riverbottom Park

If your ideal day trip is to be out in the sun doing thrilling outdoor activities, then you should visit Riverbottom Park.

Whether you’re an expert kayaker or still figuring out the water sports, you’ll be delighted with the number of opportunities at the river’s flowing stream.

Riverbottom Park is the ideal place if you want to set up a picnic day out while enjoying the cool breeze of the cascading water; there is also a beach area where you can relax while soaking in the cool water of the river.

For families traveling with children, there is a play area nearby, where they can have some fun and let the older kiddos shred it in the skate park.

Paint Your Own Pottery at Amazing Glaze

If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing bonding experience with your family, make sure to visit the Amazing Glaze in Montrose.

Prepare to get crafty because you’ll be painting your own pottery, and you can choose from a variety of mediums like ceramics, canvas, stoneware, and more.

You won’t have to worry about messing up a piece because the staffs are absolutely knowledgeable—they will teach you a few techniques, print out a template, and help you paint your piece.

This place is a fun activity for the young and the young at heart alike, so make sure to spend a hearty time painting at Amazing Glaze.

Learn About the Pioneer Life in Montrose at the Montrose County Historical Museum

Complete your trip to Montrose by visiting the Montrose County Historical Museum, which features the city’s history through exhibits and archives.

Here, you’ll see a display of a life-size homesteader’s cabin, vintage machinery and equipment, and an expansive collection of toys and furniture nestled in an old train depot.

There’s a small fee to explore the museum, but the opportunity to see an eclectic display of well-curated artifacts and memorabilia is totally worth it.

Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Night of Classic Entertainment at Star Drive-In Theatre

Ticket booth of Star Drive-In Theatre

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

Get a movie ticket for a perfect movie night at a classic drive-in theatre that features the latest Hollywood movies and old classics.

This drive-in theatre showed its first film in 1950 and continues to showcase family entertainment combined with nostalgia and scenic outdoor environment.

Sunset over Star Drive In Theatre

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

Spend the best warm summer night at Montrose by stopping at this fantastic theatre located along Miami Road.

They also offer a great selection of food to complete the movie night experience.

Make sure to buckle up and prepare for a classic, romantic movie night at Star Drive-In Theatre.

Pet the Cute Alpacas at Flying Iron Ranch Alpacas

Visit the Flying Iron Ranch Alpacas for a hearty experience surrounded by friendly, adorable alpacas.

You can feed, pet, and even walk the alpacas for a wholesome adventure on the ranch.

A visit to this working ranch is an educational experience for the family filled with precious interactions with the alpacas in a picturesque setting.

You can also shop for some yarn, roving, and alpaca apparel in their farm store or even adopt a new cuddly member to your family.

A trip to the Flying Iron Ranch is undoubtedly memorable that will delight both the young and the young at heart.

Cast Your Lines at Chipeta Lake Wildlife State Park

If your definition of a calm, relaxing day is rowing the calm waters with a fishing rod under the sun, then make sure to spend a day trip at Chipeta Lake Wildlife State Park.

The scenic Chipeta Lake offers a great panoramic view of the marshlands along the meandering stretch of the river.

This destination is perfect for a fishing trip, wildlife viewing, and a short hike.

Make sure to pack your sun protection and tasty snacks to complete your fishing trip at the Chipeta Lake Wildlife State Park.

A trip to the Chipeta Lake Wildlife State Park will surely make for a vibrant day trip, so don’t forget to include this destination on your itinerary.

Meet Friendly Animals at Covered Bridge Ranch

Located at the base of the San Juan mountain range is the scenic Covered Bridge Ranch, perfect for the family’s weekend getaway.

This 300-acre farm and wildlife refuge offers the best outdoor fun for the young and the young at heart.

Have a blast doing all fun activities, like feeding the farm animals, getting out of the maze, hayrides, marshmallow roasting, and many more.

The Covered Bridge Ranch is also the best place to spend some time for the holidays, where you can get a Christmas tree from their farm or explore their pumpkin patch.

Make sure to include the Covered Bridge Ranch in your itinerary and make it a new family tradition to amp up the holidays.

Get Acquainted With the Community at Montrose Field House

Spend a day with your family at the Montrose Field House, where both locals and tourists enjoy a fun time out in the sun.

Cool off on a hot, sunny day by going for a dip at Montrose Field House’s outdoor pool, with a round-the-clock lifeguard to ensure the safety of all visitors; you can also splash down the pool from a giant water slide or wade in the splash pads.

They also feature an indoor turf field for more opportunities to enjoy, so make sure to pack some snacks and bring the whole family for a fun day at the field house.

The Montrose Field House also hosts parties; they organize outdoor pool parties, inflatables parties, turf parties, and more.

See a Plethora of Plants at Montrose Botanic Gardens

Butterfly at Montrose Botanic Gardens

Ken Donaldson / Shutterstock.com

This 3.5-acre lush garden boasting a vibrant scenery of promenade and native plants is the perfect place for nature lovers.

The Montrose Botanic Gardens will delight you with its quaint, charming atmosphere with a view of the San Juan Mountains.

A trip to the garden is an excellent opportunity to learn about horticultural education.

The expansive variety of flowers and plants is showcased, along with some educational labels for identification.

Make sure to bring your best smile and snap a picture with the scenic garden as your background.

Appreciate a Fine Collection of Local Arts at Cimarron Song Gallery

If you’re an art enthusiast, make sure to visit the Cimarron Song Gallery where you can see local arts and join event nights.

This quaint gallery showcases the finest works of local artists and artists from across the United States, and you’ll see a range of paintings from contemporary arts to abstract works.

If an artwork resonates with you, you can bring home a piece of work made by nationally recognized artists.

Make sure to visit this hidden gem in Montrose for a hearty experience surrounded by quality works of art.

Shop for Fresh Produce at Montrose Farmer’s Market

Get dibs on the freshest produce from Montrose by supporting local vendors and artisans at the year-round Montrose Farmers’ Market.

The Montrose Farmers’ Market has a lot to offer, whether you’re looking for fresh fruits and veggies.

You’ll enjoy strolling around this local gathering place that welcomes a homey feel to visitors.

Aside from the best produce and crafts, you’ll also get to meet the people behind the quality products and support the community of farmers and craftsmen.

Aim for a Hole-in-One at the Cobble Creek Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts should not miss out on playing golf at the Cobble Creek Golf Course.

This 18-hole golf course is situated at a scenic location featuring a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains.

You’ll surely appreciate the challenge of several elevation changes and outsmart the water hazards scattered in the course.

Immediately after spending time at the golf course, you can grab a snack in their clubhouse or score on some golfing items in their pro shop.

Make sure to book your tee time with Cobble Creek Golf Club and spend a day out in the sun with golf clubs at hand.

Explore the Off-Road Trails of Flat-Top Peach Valley Recreational Area

The Flat-Top Peach Valley in Montrose is ideal for thrill-seekers looking to enjoy the off-way route for mountain biking, motorbiking, off-highway vehicles, or hiking.

This off-road site features two off-highway vehicle driving areas, ATV and motorcycle site, and a beginner area for those who want to start their off-road adventure.

You can also go on a horseback ride to explore the area or just hike and appreciate the panoramic view of the desert.

For families traveling together, you can set up a picnic day out because picnic areas and restrooms are available.

Take a Break at Montrose Water Sports Park

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some leisure activities, you can take your family to Montrose Water Sports Park.

This attraction is located at Riverbottom Park, a part of the Baldridge Regional Park complex.

It features a thousand feet of river water channel and is among Colorado’s largest water parks that also offer ADA-friendly standard amenities.

Whether you’re here to just cool off and wade your feet on the beach area or want to explore the river area on a kayak, you’re sure to have a relaxing time at the park.

You can also enjoy the views from the terrace area or take a walk around the concrete trail to see more natural views.

Pack some lunch and eat out at the picnic and pavilion areas.

There are also activities you can enjoy like playing ball on the field or a game of disc golf; likewise, take your little ones to the playground and let your older kids enjoy at the Montrose Skate Park.

Enjoy the outdoors at Montrose Water Sports Park.

Taste Fine Wines at LaNoue DuBois

LaNoue DuBois is a family-run winery located on Trout Road.

Its unique name means “LaNoue of the Woods” in French, with a reference to the maiden name of the family matriarch, and the vineyard still being called Woods Estate Vineyard.

They grow herbicide-free grape varieties known as French-American Hybrid or Cold Hardy; these include Frontenac, Frontenac Gris, Marechal Foch, New York Black Muscat, and Leon Millot.

Enjoy wines sourced from these varieties inside their wooden-style Tasting Room or on the outdoor patio with sweeping views of San Juan.

You can also request a tour of the 2500-square feet Production Floor to be included with your wine tasting.

Sip and let the taste of Marechal Foch, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlo, Woods Red, and Riesling Blends linger on your palate.

Savor locally produced wine selections from LaNoue DuBois.

Enjoy Horseback Riding with Metaphorse

Meet the horses and connect with these gentle creatures at Metaphorse.

Located on Spring Canyon Road, the business is handled by professional equestrians with 56 years of combined expertise.

They’ll match you with the right horse so you can have a unique learning and riding experience.

You can try their Equine Experiential Learning Program and get the basics on how to handle or ride horses.

Let your kids have a thrilling experience, learn to safely ride on and off the ponies, and enjoy a fun ride with the aid of knowledgeable handlers.

If you’re celebrating a special event like your kid’s birthday, you can get a package that includes face painting.

Another fun activity here is the English or Western Riding Lessons where you can learn not only to saddle and ride but groom and how to generally care for horses.

They also offer Natural Horsemanship Lessons focusing on Pat Parelli’s teachings; he was the founder of Parelli Natural Horsemanship.

Have a fun visit at Metaphorse.

Get a Coffee Fix at The Coffee Trader

Looking for a comfortable place to have coffee? The Coffee Trader is the spot you can head to.

Locally owned and operated, the shop has two locations in Montrose, right on Main Street and 5th Street, and two other branches in Grand Junction and Gunnison.

Enjoy different Coffee of the Day selections like Trader’s Blend, a blend of full-body Indonesian and Central American Arabica beans, or Mountain Splendor with a taste of smooth and lightly roasted Central American Arabica beans.

For less caffeine, try the Trader Decaffe, a combination of Guatemalan and Central American beans roasted to a medium-dark blend.

There’s a variety of coffee beverages to choose from on their Espresso Menu, but they also have assorted specialty drinks like cold Smoothies, Italian Creamsicle, Italian Soda, and Iced Tea.

For hot caffeine-free drinks, you can order Hot Chocolate, Steamer, Mexican Cocoa, Hot Tea, Chai Latte, or Green Tea Latte.

The Coffee Trader also has unique drinks on their FreeZerZ Menu you can try in Hot, Cold, or Avalanche style plus your choice of assorted syrup flavors.

Enjoy Delightful Cuisine at The Stone House Restaurant

Have a delightful gastronomic experience at The Stone House Restaurant on Hawk Parkway.

Established in 2008, the family-owned American Steakhouse has become a popular stop for locals and tourists, welcoming guests to its beautiful stone and wooden building.

You’ll enjoy the small-town hospitality and the relaxing and cozy ambiance while enjoying the delicious servings of tasty fares.

Have your lunch or dinner, or drop by for a Sunday breakfast buffet.

Start your meal with tasty appetizers like the popular Avocado Rolls or Coconut Shrimp.

Try their seafood specialties like the Alaskan King Crab, Canadian Lobster, and Jumbo Shrimp, along with flavorful Ahi Tuna steaks and Salmon fillets.

Take a bite of juicy steaks, flavorful pasta, gourmet burgers, and sandwiches, as well as salad and soup varieties to complete your meal.

To cap off the night, you can choose from their liquor collections like scotch, bourbon, rye, beer, and specialty drinks.

Eat and enjoy at The Stone House Restaurant.

Final Thoughts

Montrose is obviously the ideal place if your definition of the perfect weekend getaway is one filled with adventure surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.

From an array of exciting outdoor activities to rejuvenating recreational ventures, Montrose has a lot in store for every visitor.

If you’re already decided on going on a trip to Montrose, don’t forget to reference this list to make the most out of your trip to the town.

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