Make the most of your trip!
Make the most of your trip!
OUR Guide To Granby & Grand County
Welcome to the ultimate guide to Granby and Grand County, Colorado! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this region is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes at one of the area's world-class ski resorts, hike through pristine wilderness, or simply soak up the laid-back mountain lifestyle, Grand County has something for everyone. In our opinion, these are some of the best spots to visit, the hidden gems to explore, and the local hotspots to dine and unwind. In this guide, we'll share our insider knowledge of Grand County with you, highlighting the must-see attractions, the best local restaurants, and the most exciting outdoor adventures. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, let us be your personal guide to this incredible part of Colorado.
Eat & Drink
Grand County is a food lover's paradise, with a diverse culinary scene that draws inspiration from the region's history, landscape, and local ingredients. Visitors can sample everything from classic mountain fare, like hearty stews and game meats, to more contemporary dishes featuring fresh, seasonal produce and innovative flavor combinations.
Local breweries and distilleries also abound, offering visitors the chance to sip on handcrafted beers, spirits, and cocktails that capture the essence of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, Grand County has something to satisfy every palate.
Maverick’s Grille
A casual dive bar popular among locals with incredible burgers. Located in Granby.
Granby Garage
Good food, great drinks. Love their Chimango margarita! Located in Granby.
Rocky Mountain Roastery
A cozy small-batch roaster coffee shop. Located in Granby.
Bluebird Bistro
Home-style comfort food at the base of Granby Ranch. Located in Granby.
Randi’s Grill & Pub
Lively restaurant & bar with standard American fare. Located in Winter Park.
Brickhouse 40
This restaurant is known for their brick-fired pizza. Located in Granby.
Fitch Ranch Meats
Breakfast and lunch dishes made with locally-sourced meats & produce. Located in Granby.
Never Summer Brewing
A popular microbrewery that makes beers with local ingredients. Located in Granby.
Debbie’s Drive In
A classic diner in a retro setting. Don’t miss their milkshakes or donuts. Located in Granby.
Showboat Drive By Pie
Sweet & savory pies made from scratch daily. Located in Granby.
First Chair Cafe
Convenient coffee shop at the base of Granby Ranch. Located in Granby.
Winter Park Winery
Handcrafted wines using grapes sourced from Colorado's western slope. Located in Fraser.
Moon Frog Coffee Shop
A quirky & colorful cafe. Their Dirty Chai is delicious. Located in Winter Park.
Fraser Valley Distilling
Craft distillery with award-winning spirits like vodka, gin & whiskey. Located in Fraser.
Monarch Lake Chocolate
The best hot chocolate in town. The Mayan is the bomb. Located in Winter Park.
Shop & Gifts
Grand County is a haven for shoppers and souvenir hunters, offering a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and markets where visitors can find one-of-a-kind treasures and mementos to bring home. From handmade crafts and artisanal goods to clothing and outdoor gear, there's no shortage of shopping opportunities in this beautiful region of Colorado.
Visitors can browse local art galleries and studios, peruse farmers markets and artisan markets, or explore quaint downtowns and charming shopping districts to find the perfect souvenir or gift.
Tina’s Fabric Nook
A fabric and quilting shop that also features classes. Located in Granby.
Altitude Jewelry
handcrafted jewelry with unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. Located in Winter Park.
Queen Bee Gardens
A family-owned candy shop with lots of honey goodness. Located in Granby.
Wild About Birds
Love birds? You’ll love this store. Located in Grand Lake.
Mountain Shire Books
An independent bookstore with a wide selection. Located in Winter Park.
History & entertainment
Grand County is a hub for arts and entertainment, with a vibrant cultural scene that reflects the region's rich history and natural beauty. From live music and theater performances to art galleries and museums, there's no shortage of ways to experience the arts in this stunning part of Colorado.
Visitors can catch a concert at the Winter Park Resort, attend a theater production at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre in Grand Lake, or explore the various art galleries and studios scattered throughout the county.
Foundry Cinema & Bowl
Movies, bowling, and other activities in one convenient location. Located in Fraser.
KAUFFMAN HOUSE MUSEUM
Step back in time and learn about the area's early pioneers . Located in Grand Lake.
MOFFAT ROAD RAILROAD MUSEUM
Celebrates the history of the region's railroad industry. Located in Granby.
Rocky Mountain Repertory
A professional theater company with a wide range of shows. Located in Grand Lake.
Grand Park Community Recreation Center
State-of-the-art facility for all ages. Offers classes & programs. Located in Fraser.
Headwaters River Journey
An interactive museum about the area's water resources. Located in Winter Park.
PIONEER VILLAGE MUSEUM
Experience the region's pioneer past up close.. Located in Hot Sulphur Springs.
EMILY WARNER FIELD AVIATION MUSEUM
Celebrates the history of aviation in the region. Located in Granby.
Cozens Ranch Museum
Learn about the area's early pioneers and settlers. Located in Fraser.
Outdoor Recreation
Grand County is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with a vast array of recreational opportunities that allow visitors to explore the region's natural beauty and rugged terrain. With access to five major mountain ranges, countless trails and waterways, and four distinct seasons, Grand County offers something for every type of adventurer. Visitors can hit the slopes at one of the area's world-class ski resorts, hike through pristine wilderness, fish in clear mountain streams, or take a scenic drive along the stunning Trail Ridge Road in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.
In addition to its winter sports and summer outdoor activities, Grand County also offers a variety of year-round recreational opportunities, including hot air balloon rides, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. The county is also home to several state parks and wildlife preserves, including the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge, which offers visitors the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, and bald eagles. With so much natural beauty to explore and so many exciting activities to enjoy, Grand County is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Downhill Skiing
World-class skiing can be found at both Granby Ranch & Winter Park. The former is a little friendlier for young families & certainly less crowded. For the more advanced, Winter Park is second-to-none.
Fishing
A mecca for fishing enthusiasts, there’s an abundance of clear mountain streams, lakes, and rivers that offer some of the best fishing in the country. Take advantage of the area's many fly fishing outfitters and guides.
Horseback Riding
Visitors can choose from a range of guided trail rides and pack trips that take them through the county's scenic backcountry, with options for riders of all levels of experience.
Mountain Biking
There’s a vast network of trails and routes that offer a range of terrain, from gentle beginner trails to steep and technical singletrack. You can ride Granby Ranch’s routes close to home.
Snowmobiling
There are over 1,500 miles of groomed trails and countless acres of backcountry terrain to explore. You can rent snowmobiles and join guided tours or venture out on your own.
Hot Sulphur Springs
Enjoy soaking in the mineral-rich waters of the hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties and have been used for centuries by Native Americans and settlers alike.
BackCountry Skiing
Grand County has a wide variety of terrain, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. There are several outfitters and guides in the area who can provide instruction and equipment rentals.
Hiking
A paradise for hikers, Grand County has a wide range of trails and routes that offer stunning views, unique geological features, and abundant wildlife. Our favorite way to find local hikes is by using the AllTrails app.
River Rafting
Grand County is home to some of the best river rafting in Colorado, with several rivers and rapids that offer an exciting and unforgettable adventure for all levels of rafters.
Scenic Drives
Home to some of the most stunning scenic drives in the state! Check out the Trail Ridge Road, Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, & the Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway.
Dog Sledding
There are several outfitters and guides offering unforgettable dogsledding tours through the county's scenic backcountry. This is a memorable experience for dog lovers!
Nordic Skiing
There are miles of groomed trails and pristine backcountry terrain for skiers of all levels. Check out the nearby nordic centers: Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA, Grand Lake Nordic Center & the Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort.
Golfing
There are several world-class golf courses in the area, including Granby Ranch, Pole Creek Golf Club, and the Grand Lake Golf Course. They variety of terrain, from challenging par 3s to scenic links-style holes.
Boating & Kayaking
There are several lakes and rivers that offer a variety of water-based activities. Grand Lake is one of the most popular destinations for boating in the area.
Sledding & Tubing
There are thrilling runs down groomed hills and tubing lanes, with options for riders of all ages and abilities. We love the Colorado Adventure Park in Fraser for tubing!
Hot Air Ballooning
Grand County is a fantastic destination for hot air ballooning, offering visitors a chance to explore the region's stunning natural beauty from high above.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Experience the region's natural beauty up close. The park features a variety of breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes and rivers. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, as well as take in the park's many scenic drives and trails. The Grand Lake entrance is the least crowded & only a 30-min drive from the condo.
FAQs
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High — over 8,000 ft in elevation! Make sure you hydrate (electrolytes can be great for this) and consider taking it easy on the booze. Taking time to acclimatize can also help you adjust to the altitude, especially if you have any strenuous adventures planned.
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Yes, there are two very well-stocked grocery stores in the area - Safeway & City Market. The City Market is closest to Granby Ranch.
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There are a number of Visitors Centers in Grand County and these are great places to get even more recommendations. Google and Yelp searches can also be helpful.