Colorado's 150th Makes This the Year to Explore Grand Junction

Colorado’s in the middle of a once-in-a-lifetime milestone in 2026, its 150^th anniversary of statehood. Grand Junction’s been along for that ride since 1882, founded just six years after Colorado became the 38^th state.

Colorado 150 is the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at some landmarks right here at home that are a big part of both Grand Junction and state history. Here are three local stops worthy of the Sesquicentennial.

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The Old Mesa County Courthouse Reflects Grand Junction's Growth

Mesa County Old Courthouse - 544 Rood Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501: Getty Images - 1

I love walking in downtown Grand Junction and going past the historic buildings and some of the 100+ year-old homes along the way. There’s a lot to see on Rood Avenue, including the Mesa County Courthouse. It's one of the most recognizable old civic buildings, finished in 1924.

Today, it's part of the Mesa County Register of Historic Landmarks, and dates back to a time when agriculture, irrigation, and business did so well that Grand Junction had to build a courthouse worthy of the roaring 20s. It was a step in becoming the largest city on the Western Slope.

Grand Junction's Union Depot Helped Connect a Young Colorado

It's Been 120 Years In Grand Junction for Union Depot — Google Street

Completed in 1905, Grand Junction's Union Depot became one of Colorado's most important transportation hubs, linking the city with Denver, Salt Lake City, and the West. The arrival of passenger and freight rail made everything else boom. The depot at 119 Pitkin Avenue made Grand Junction the economic center of the Western Slope. The depot celebrated its 120th birthday in May of 2026.

Museum of the West Brings Grand Junction's Past to Life

Find Summer Fun at Colorado's Museum of the West — Google Street

Everything about the Museum of the West is a great pairing with Colorado’s 150. See Grand Junction’s restored Carnegie Library, home to exhibits that date back to 1876. Learn about the past 150 years on the Western Slope and see how the Ute people, early settlers, ranchers, miners, railroad workers, and fruit growers transformed the valley. Tap the link above to learn more about the Museum of the West and the Sterling T. Smith Observation Tower.

LOOK: Cities with the Most Expensive Homes in the Grand Junction Area

Stacker compiled a list of cities with the most expensive homes in the Grand Junction metro area using data from Zillow.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

NEXT: Colorado’s Top Towns for Conservative Family Living

If your view of Colorado is shaped mostly by Denver’s growth and progressive policies, you’re only seeing part of the picture. Head to towns like Fruita or Rifle, and you’ll find close-knit communities, busy local events, and a strong sense of independence. Take a look at Colorado’s more conservative-leaning areas based on voting data from roadsnacks.com.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: It's Easy To See Why Colorado Loves the Maroon Bells

The twin 14,000-foot peaks overlooking Maroon Lake draw visitors from around the world, but understanding the shuttle system, parking rules, and mountain safety tips can make the experience far more enjoyable.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams