Scenic drive through a National Monument. There is a park fee unless you say you are going to visit family on Glade Park or go the long way to bypass the Ranger Station. There are also several hiking trails or lookouts along the drive. Takes about an hour for the full loop due to a lot of switchbacks - Redlands to Fruita.
Beautiful Drive, about two hours for full loop. Several Lakes, hiking trails & cooler weather. **Bring bug spray
Bring your own bike or rent a bike to ride these trails & stop by Handlebar TapHouse for a burger & beer.
Bring your own firearms/bows to shoot here, they do not have rentals. Pistol, Rifle, Archery, Clays.
Wine tasting! Palisade is also known as the "Peach Capital of Colorado" so try some while you're here! Mid-August is peak season, but there should be plenty while you're visiting!
Colorado's finest Arches, worth a look if you're willing.
For the kiddos. Fun little science museum. Child is $8, Adult is $10.
For the kiddos. $7-$11/person. They also have two other museum locations and I believe you can get cheaper tickets if you are looking to visit all three.
For the kiddos. Go karts, Lasertag, Laser maze, mini golf, arcade, bumper boats. $43/person. Or $20/person for laser tag.