Fruita ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fruita, Colorado.
1. Museum of Western Colorado: Dinosaur Journey Museum
PREHISTORIC WONDERS AWAIT
The Dinosaur Journey Museum offers visitors a fascinating look at the prehistoric creatures that once roamed western Colorado. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits featuring robotic dinosaurs, a working paleontology lab, and real dinosaur fossils. The museum provides an educational experience for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly attraction in Fruita.
2. Rattlesnake Canyon
SANDSTONE ARCH PARADISE
Rattlesnake Canyon is home to the second-largest concentration of natural stone arches outside of Utah's Arches National Park. The area features stunning red rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Colorado landscape. Visitors can access this natural wonder via a challenging hike or with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for a truly memorable outdoor adventure.
3. Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial
HONORING FALLEN HEROES
The Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to those who served during the Vietnam conflict. The memorial features a wall of names, military equipment displays, and peaceful grounds for reflection. Visitors come to pay respects and learn about the sacrifices made by service members from Colorado's Western Slope region.
4. Mary's Loop
PREMIER MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAIL
Mary's Loop is one of Fruita's most popular mountain biking trails, offering riders spectacular views of the Colorado River and surrounding canyons. The trail features a mix of technical sections and flowing singletrack suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Hikers also enjoy this trail for its panoramic vistas and access to connecting paths in the Kokopelli Trail system.
5. Kokopelli's Trail
EPIC MULTI-DAY ADVENTURE
Kokopelli's Trail is a legendary 142-mile route stretching from Fruita, Colorado to Moab, Utah. The trail traverses diverse terrain including slickrock, forest roads, and challenging singletrack for mountain bikers and hikers. Named after the fertility deity of some Native American cultures, this iconic trail offers multi-day adventure opportunities with breathtaking desert and mountain scenery.
6. Fruita Community Center
RECREATION FOR EVERYONE
The Fruita Community Center serves as the recreational hub of the city with state-of-the-art facilities for visitors and locals alike. The center features indoor pools, basketball courts, a fitness center, and various activity rooms for classes and events. Travelers appreciate the day passes available for accessing shower facilities after outdoor adventures in the surrounding area.
7. Devils Canyon Hiking Trails
DESERT CANYON EXPLORATION
Devils Canyon Hiking Trails offer explorers a network of paths through stunning red rock formations and desert landscapes. The trail system features options for various difficulty levels, from easy family-friendly loops to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Visitors can enjoy wildflower displays in spring, unique geological features year-round, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
8. Colorado Welcome Center - Fruita
GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Colorado Welcome Center in Fruita serves as an essential first stop for travelers seeking information about local attractions and activities. Knowledgeable staff provide maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations for exploring Fruita and the surrounding region. The center also features interesting displays about local history, culture, and natural resources of Colorado's Western Slope.
9. Colorado National Monument
MAJESTIC CANYONS VIEWPOINT
Colorado National Monument preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West with its towering sandstone monoliths and deep, sheer-walled canyons. Visitors can experience the breathtaking scenery along the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which offers numerous overlooks and photographic opportunities. The monument provides habitat for desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and other wildlife that can often be spotted by observant travelers.
10. Hot Tomato Pizzeria
CYCLISTS' FAVORITE PIZZA JOINT
Hot Tomato Pizzeria is a beloved local establishment known for serving delicious hand-tossed pizzas to hungry outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by two former professional mountain bikers, this restaurant has become a cultural institution and gathering spot for the cycling community. The casual, bike-friendly atmosphere perfectly complements their creative pizza combinations, homemade desserts, and craft beer selection.
11. Over the Edge Sports
PREMIER CYCLING OUTFITTER
Over the Edge Sports is a renowned bike shop catering to cycling enthusiasts visiting Fruita's world-class trail systems. The store offers high-quality rental bikes, gear, and expert advice about local riding conditions and trail recommendations. Their knowledgeable staff provide mechanical services, guided tours, and insider tips that enhance the mountain biking experience in this cycling destination.
12. Copper Club Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Copper Club Brewing Company serves as Fruita's beloved local brewery and taproom in the heart of downtown. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of handcrafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere that often features live music and community events. The brewery's outdoor patio provides a perfect spot to relax after a day of adventure while enjoying award-winning beers and socializing with locals and fellow travelers.
13. Fruita Farmers Market
LOCAL HARVEST GATHERING
The Fruita Farmers Market showcases the agricultural bounty of Colorado's Western Slope during the summer and fall seasons. Visitors can browse stalls featuring fresh local produce, artisanal foods, handcrafted goods, and unique gifts from regional vendors. The market creates a vibrant community atmosphere with live music, cooking demonstrations, and activities that celebrate Fruita's agricultural heritage.
14. Rimrock Adventures
RIVER RAFTING EXPERIENCES
Rimrock Adventures offers exciting outdoor experiences on the Colorado River with rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding adventures. Their professional guides lead trips ranging from gentle family floats to more adventurous whitewater excursions through scenic canyons. The outfitter also provides horseback riding tours, giving visitors multiple ways to explore the natural beauty surrounding Fruita.
15. Fruita Paleo Area
ANCIENT DINOSAUR DISCOVERY
The Fruita Paleontological Area is a significant fossil site where numerous important dinosaur discoveries have been made over the decades. Visitors can explore interpretive trails that highlight the area's rich prehistoric history and ongoing excavation work. The site complements the nearby Dinosaur Journey Museum, allowing dinosaur enthusiasts to experience both the museum exhibits and an actual dinosaur quarry location.