Background

Cross Orchards Historic Site: A Living History Museum

Experience early 20th-century rural life at Cross Orchards Historic Site in Grand Junction, Colorado. Living history, vintage equipment, and Uintah Railway cars.

4.6

Step back in time at Cross Orchards Historic Site, a living history museum in Grand Junction, Colorado, showcasing early 20th-century orchard life. Explore historic buildings, vintage equipment, and learn about the region's agricultural heritage on this beautifully preserved 12-acre site.

A brief summary to Cross Orchards Historic Site, Museums of Western Colorado

Local tips

  • Check the Museums of Western Colorado website for seasonal events and hours of operation, as they may vary.
  • Visit the farmers market on Wednesdays or Saturdays for local produce and artisanal goods.
  • Allow at least two hours to explore the site and fully experience the exhibits and guided tours.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 3073 F Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81504. From I-70, take exit 31 for US-50 W toward Grand Junction. Continue on US-50 W, then turn left onto 30 Rd, and right onto F Rd. Cross Orchards will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Cross Orchards via public transportation, take a Greyhound bus or local transit to Grand Junction. Then, use Grand Valley Transit to get closer to Cross Orchards. The nearest stop is around the intersection of 30 Rd and F Rd, from which you'll need to walk approximately 0.5 miles to the site. A single fare on Grand Valley Transit is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Grand Junction Regional Airport, a taxi or ride-share to Cross Orchards is approximately 8 miles and costs around $20-$30. Companies like Sunshine Rides and K2 Taxi operate in the area.

Unlock the Best of Cross Orchards Historic Site, Museums of Western Colorado

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cross Orchards Historic Site, Museums of Western Colorado

Cross Orchards Historic Site, a part of the Museums of Western Colorado, offers an engaging glimpse into the agricultural roots of the Grand Valley. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this living history museum invites visitors to experience life on a fruit ranch from the early 1900s. Originally established as the Red Cross Land and Fruit Company in 1899, Cross Orchards was once the largest apple orchard in western Colorado, boasting over 22,000 trees across 243 acres. Today, the remaining 12-acre site preserves the feel of a working farm and orchard. Explore the original packing shed and bunkhouse, reconstructed blacksmith shop, and a Uintah Railway exhibit with railroad cars, an engine, and a caboose. Costumed guides lead tours, bringing the history to life. Visitors can also view vintage farming equipment and learn about traditional farming practices. The site also features the Swanson Exhibit, displaying household effects, farm equipment, and horse-drawn tools from the Swanson family who moved from Sweden to operate a 40-acre farm south of Loma. Cross Orchards hosts seasonal events, including a farmers market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and a Fall Day on the Farm with cider pressing and other activities. It's a popular destination for families, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Popular Experiences near Cross Orchards Historic Site, Museums of Western Colorado

Popular Hotels near Cross Orchards Historic Site, Museums of Western Colorado

Select Currency