Sixteen acres of living history stretch across Grand Junction’s east side — a place where time slows down long enough to listen. Here, at Cross Orchards Historic Site, the hum of modern life fades into the rustle of orchard leaves and the quiet strength of the past.
On one side, barns and orchards remind visitors of the valley’s agricultural roots. On the other, rail cars, tractors, and antique trucks tell the story of how the region moved and built itself. Together, they form a portrait of a place that has grown, adapted, and endured.
I met with Curator Matt Darling, who has spent nearly a decade caring for this site and its stories. We walked the property as the late September sun spilled gold across the apple trees and weathered barns. What follows is a blend of our conversation and quiet moments in between — a glimpse into a Grand Junction treasure that feels both timeless and alive.
A Place with Two Halves
Matt: “Cross is sixteen acres… there’s two halves, basically. It’s the Agriculture Museum on the east side and a Transportation Museum on the west side. Over here, there’s trucks, trains, and tractors literally scattered everywhere.”
Everywhere we walked, history peeked through — a fire truck gleaming beneath the sun, a row of tractors softened by dust and time, and the familiar red caboose that seems to capture everyone’s attention.
Matt: “Most of it for photography… there’s some interesting spots, but mostly the rail cars offer a few options — standing in front of them or on the steps. Some fun ones have been on the end platform of the caboose. One of our volunteers dressed up in period clothes and stood there with a shotgun, looking all serious."
He smiled at the memory, adding that the caboose itself has “lots of potential” and was completely restored after being donated in poor condition. He detailed that he and his wife, who had their wedding at Cross Orchards, were able to use Matt's curator privilege to access the inside of the caboose to capture timeless photos.
Growing New Traditions
We stopped near a row of sunflowers that had outgrown their garden beds. “We call it a weed problem,” Matt joked, “but the volunteers call it beautiful.”
Nearby, the first-ever Cross Orchards Pumpkin Patch was taking shape — an idea sparked by new leadership at the museum.
Matt said that since Cross Orchards underwent new ownership, "about a year and a half ago," it became clear that the other patches in the Valley were on the opposite side of town. She felt offering a pumpkin patch was one more way the historical property could serve the Valley.
With help from the former owners of Moon Farm, the staff and volunteers brought in crates of pumpkins, set up displays, and parked a working tractor right out front — a perfect fall photo stop.
Matt: “It’s our first pumpkin patch, and people are really liking it as a photo spot. Hopefully we sell out this weekend.”
The Old Orchard and ‘Grandpa’
We walked through the orchard, where an established apple tree towered stood off away from the rest.
Matt: “That tree’s called Grandpa — I came up with that name because it’s the oldest tree in the orchard. There’s a photo from 1979, when the museum was being considered for the National Historic Registry, and that tree was just a skinny little thing. By our estimate, it’s about sixty years old now.”
He explained how the tree still produces Yellow Delicious apples, and how its wide, low branches have made it a favorite backdrop for portraits. “It’s easy to photograph around,” he said, “and people just seem drawn to it.”
History with Heart
Inside the barn, the air carried the scent of old wood and dust. Matt explained how it was originally built in 1910 — part packing shed, part barn — where harvested apples were once boxed by hand for shipment.
Matt: “When we do weddings, this is usually where the reception is. My wife and I actually decorated for one ourselves — lights, garland, the whole thing. We gave digital copies of all our photos to the museum."
Traditions That Keep Growing
When I asked what family traditions he’s seen grow here, Matt didn’t hesitate.
Matt: “One of the best is visiting during our farmer’s market. It’s a good family experience — you can get produce, local art, food trucks when we can, and live music. You can ride the train or the fire truck, explore the exhibits, see the model trains, and finish it off with a picnic on the grass.”
I asked how families can start a relationship with Cross Orchards to which Matt grinned. “Make it a tradition — come at least once a year.”
Then his eyes lit up again.
Matt: “Another one is our Model Train Christmas Show in December. It’s a fundraiser with our partners, the Grand Valley Model Railroad Club. We decorate everything for Christmas — even the ride-on train — and Santa is stationed in the bunkhouse. When the train comes around the corner and the little kids see Santa… their expressions make it all worth it.”
He paused and added softly, “There are people who come every single year — if not multiple times.”
A Living Museum
Cross Orchards is a place that breathes — part museum, part park, part gathering space for families who love to wander, explore, and connect.
Matt: “Cross Orchards is a museum first. Always a museum first. But we’re also partly a park. I like it when people come and stay, especially during the farmer’s market — when they interact with the space.”
For Matt, and for those who return year after year, the magic of Cross Orchards is that it feels like stepping back in time — without losing touch with what matters now.
As we wrapped up our walk, I asked him to describe Cross Orchards in three words. He laughed.
Matt: “It’s a-lot of fun. A-lot of work — but a-lot of fun.”
Family-Friendly & Photo-Perfect
Cross Orchards isn’t just a museum—it’s a space where families can move, explore, and connect. Wide lawns invite kids to play, orchard paths offer freedom to wander, and parents can enjoy knowing their children are surrounded by living history—not plastic playgrounds.
For my family, it was this exact reason why we started coming to Cross Orchards. I wanted a place where my kids could move their bodies and interact with learning. I know that each year, as they grow, so will their understanding and appreciation of this historical treasure in Grand Junction's plain site.
For photography, it’s magic: golden light through apple branches, little ones racing past vintage tractors, couples framed by barn doors, and that iconic caboose glow at sunset. After exploring this property, I am so excited to offer sessions at Cross Orchards.
Plan Your Visit or Book Your Session
Visit Cross Orchards:
📍 3073 F Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81504
🕰️ Open seasonally for tours, events, and family-friendly activities
Thinking about photos here?
I know the best spots and the best light. Whether you’re dreaming of playful, candid family images or something more nostalgic and romantic, I’ll guide you through a relaxed session that lets your kids be themselves—surrounded by history.
Tip: Ask about golden hour at the caboose, cozy portraits near the 1910 barn doors, and orchard-path games for littles.