Montrose is a historic Colorado town on the beautiful Western Slope of the Rocky Mountains
When you visit Montrose, Colorado you’ll experience a city that’s at once family-friendly and full of fun. From the historic downtown attractions to the busy event calendar that keeps the city bustling year round, there’s plenty to do in see in Montrose. Here are a few of our tried and true favorites.
Get Moving.
One of the best ways to visit Montrose, CO is on foot, especially in the spring and summer months. For an informative and entertaining jaunt around town, head the Chamber of Commerce and hit up the Visitors Center, where you’ll find free maps that will lead you on a walking tour of historic downtown Montrose. As you follow the tour, you’ll be treated to Victorian architecture, quaint shops, friendly locals, and informative signs explaining the city’s history. The tour is just long enough to work up an appetite, so plan on having lunch in one of the many restaurants after you’ve finished. Montrose Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, 433 S. 1st Street, Montrose, CO 81401. Tel: (970)240-1400.
Treasure Hunt.
While you may not find a chest filled to the brim with the lost coins of Cortez, you’ll have no trouble unearthing treasures in the many Montrose antique shops that have been passed down through the ages. Whether you’re just browsing or you’re searching for the perfect gem for your jewelry box, you’re sure to come across that one unique piece.
Museum Hop.
One of the best ways to learn more about the city’s pioneering roots of the Old West is to visit the Montrose County Historical Museum. You’ll find artifacts abound, from an impressive archeology display to a stage coach from days gone by. For a better idea of just how much work went into settling the wild frontiers of old Colorado, have a look at the collection of antique farm equipment. For more historical fun, head two miles east of town to the Museum of the Mountain West. With over half a million artifacts dating back to 1840, this museum is actually a collection of restored buildings revamped as Old West replica displays. You’ll see everything from vintage saddles and hundred year-old pistols to recreations of fabric shops and old time taverns. Give yourself at least an hour to explore this fascinating piece of American history.
Montrose County Historical Museum
Montrose County Historical Museum21 N Rio Grande Ave.
Montrose, CO 81401
Tel: (970) 249-2085
Open May – October, Monday – Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., and Saturdays 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Admission is $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for students and members of the military.
Museum of the Mountain West
Museum of the Mountain West68169 Miami Rd.
Montrose, CO 81401
Tel: (970) 240-3400
Open Monday – Saturday, 8:30 A.M. – 4.30 P.M.
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 18, and $3 per person for groups of 10 or more.
Spend an Evening Under the Stars.
For an unforgettable night out, head over to the Star Drive-Inn where you’ll see your favorite movies projected against the big screen on the horizon. Since it first opened in 1950, the Star Drive-Inn has been owned and operated by the same family. That means that by visiting the Star, you’re not just taking in a flick in one of America’s last drive-ins, but you’re also supporting a local business. The environment is laid back, family-friendly, and perfect for all ages. All shows begin at dusk, and expect double features in the summer. Even better? Kids under 12 get in for free.
Star Drive-Inn600 Miami Rd
Montrose, CO 81401
Tel: (970) 249-6170
You can find more information about what to do and see in Montrose by visiting the city’s Official Webpage. For even more tourism tips, don’t hesitate to ask the locals. People in the Montrose, CO community are friendly, welcoming, and always eager to point visitors in the right direction.