Palisade

Located in the heart of Colorado's world-renowned wine country, Palisade is an agricultural haven and a welcoming retreat to country living. This small town gets its name from the dramatic palisades of Mancos Shale, which formed as a result of erosion from the nearby Colorado River. The lush gardens surrounding this mountain town create a picturesque backdrop for its world-famous peach trees, whose fruits are popular for their incredible flavor. The area’s wine is just as acclaimed, with sophisticated vineyards and tasting rooms dotting Palisade’s locale. Its ideal location is tucked between the Colorado River and the area’s most stunning mountain peaks, where a wealth of outdoor amenities are available, from hiking to mountain biking and sightseeing.

Local Lifestyle

Palisade is rich in agricultural history and has stayed true to its roots. From farmer's markets to u-pick peach farms to world-famous vineyards and high-end cuisine, this charming town offers an assortment of ways to experience Colorado’s Peach Capitol. Its small-town atmosphere lends the way to a tight-knit community, where residents gather together for lunch or a glass of wine. When they aren’t attending community-wide festivals and events, locals are seen traversing Palisade’s nearby trails and serene parks, all of which offer stunning views. Palisade offers all of the benefits of Mother Nature living in your backyard without forgoing exclusive amenities, making this Colorado town as loveable as it is beautiful. 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Shops and galleries throughout Palisade give a taste of local culture and interests. As you meander along a charming main street, you’ll find bakeries, a pottery shop, and boutique stores, as well as a variety of beloved farm-to-table restaurants. For a thoughtfully curated menu with flavor in mind, head to Pêche. Restaurant on Main Street, whose detailed menu offers delectable dishes like ribeye and Moroccan lamb. Caroline's local wines and fresh produce prepared in classic French dishes make this longtime eatery a local favorite. For a slightly more casual, but equally delicious dining experience, try Fidel's Cocina, whose taqueria serves Latin-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. This locally-owned restaurant makes everything from scratch with clean, sustainably-sourced ingredients.

Things to Do

Home to 25 premier vineyards and an ideal weather combination of gentle breezes and artesian wells, Palisade is the perfect place to enjoy a vineyard tour and wine tasting. Cruise the Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway, whose stretch of three routes offers a range of vineyards, lavender farms, fruit stands, wineries, and orchards along the way. While there, rent a peddle bike or horse-drawn carriage to experience Colorado’s wine country in style.

The Colorado River’s sparkling waters provide an endless supply of fun. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or heading down the river in a raft, stand-up paddle board, canoe, or kayak, you’ll be sure to see incredible views. Enjoy a scenic hike or horseback riding at various parks and trails throughout the area. A new set of thrilling adventures awaits in winter, where snow transforms the mountains near Palisades into oases perfect for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

There is no shortage of interesting and unique festivals for residents to delight in during the year. The Colorado Lavender Festival’s multi-day event brings with it a host of activities, including cooking demonstrations, seminars, self-guided farm tours, and more. Celebrate the delicious peaches that hail from this region at the Palisade Peach Festival.

Schools

The Mesa County Valley School District 51 serves the community of Palisade. Highly-regarded schools nearby include: