Magazine story touts Grand Junction as hidden gem

Elizabeth Fogarty

Grand Junction is described as a hidden gem in a story appearing in an international lifestyle magazine.

The five-page article appears in the September issue of Red Bulletin produced by the Red Bull energy drink company.

“This significant coverage by such a well-established hip brand represents Grand Junction gaining notoriety as a destination known for a variety of experiences, including epic outdoor recreation, a trendy restaurant scene, boutique lodging options including camping, Colorado National Monument and other scenic public lands,” said Elizabeth Fogarty, director of Visit Grand Junction.

The article touted Grand Junction as a high desert oasis with world class sandstone arches and some of the best rock climbing in the continental United States. The article highlighted not only the nearby Colorado National Monument, but also the Lunch Loops trail, Little Book Cliffs and McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.

The article also mentioned a number of local businesses, including 626 on Rood, Bin 707, Castle Creek Manor Bed and Breakfast, Camp Eddy, Devil’s Kitchen, Dream Café, Foam and Folly Brewery, Grand Junction Adventures, Highlands Distillery, Hotel Maverick, Kulina Lani Organic Sourdough, Magee Adventures, Moody’s Lounge, Rimrock Adventures, Rockslide Brewery,  Spoons Bistro, Taco Party, Two Rivers Winery and Chateau, Warehouse 2565 and Whitewater Hill Vineyards.

Fogarty said the Red Bulletin serves as a target audience described as young, independent professionals with lofty aspirations.

Visit Grand Junction, the destination marketing organization of the City of Grand Junction, markets a variety of what Fogarty said are brand pillars that include agritourism, art, Colorado Mesa University, craft beverages, cuisine, history, lodging, outdoor recreation and retailing.

“Not any one pillar is more important than the other,” Fogarty said. “Providing a voice and representing all facets of the community is why the brand is gaining in strength and increased awareness.”

Travel and tourism are important contributors to a sustainable Grand Junction economy, she said. Visitor spending accounts for about a third of city sales tax revenue.