It seems that some of the most interesting road trips sprout from humble beginnings. For example, going out for ice cream can easily evolve into a weekend overnighter for travelers who like to fly by the seat of their pants. When traveling on a motorcycle, little things like inclement weather can also make you change your destination and plans, that is, providing you have any at all.
This kind of aimless wandering can be daunting for some folks, while others find is wildly appealing. That's the beauty of weekend roadtrips; you have enough time to do fun things, and can plan as much or as little as you like. What started out as a simple jaunt for ice cream took us from Glenwood Springs on through to Steamboat Springs (which will be featured in another article), and into Craig, CO.
It was one of those wandering weekends that enabled us to discover one of the coolest eateries we have been to, in a long, long time. A fairly unassuming building from the outside, the O.P. Bar & Grill (O.P. standing for Other Place) is a destination all in itself, tucked away in Craig, CO. Inside it's log exterior is a feast for the eyes; every wall covered in old license plates, photographs, motorcycle parts, and enough aluminum diamond plate to sink a battleship. Fanciful paintings on the walls and doors add to the already wicked-cool decor; here you will see everything from the characters of Fantasy Island ("De-plane! De-plane!") to a T-bucket snowmobile, and even a pinup girl (a-la Bettie Page) soaking in a martini glass. Probably one of the most unique things that graces the walls of the O.P. is the Harley Sportster, hanging from the back wall. Yes, its the real deal, ladies & germs...(no fiberglass replicas, thank you very much), complete with twinkle lights to add a festive touch.
The staff at the O.P. are warm and friendly, and will make you feel right at home. You will more than likely also meet the O.P.'s owner Delbert, and his lovely wife, as they oversee the day to day operations there. The O.P. offers a wide variety of sandwiches and munchies, daily specials, including to-die-for prime rib on Saturdays. Be sure to check out their breakfast buffet on Sunday morning too!
In addition to the main dining and bar area, they also have an awesome covered patio and a regular patio (uncovered), for enjoying the warm summer evenings. They have a large parking lot, with plenty of room for vehicles and motorcycles alike. They are located at 534 E. Victory Way in Craig, CO; it's easy to find, because it's on the main drag that goes through town. Be sure to check out the slide show in this article, for information about the O.P.'s 15th Annual Poker Run!
Other things in Craig that you might enjoy:
Bear Valley Inn - Under new ownership, the Inn is a clean and budget-friendly place to rest your head!
Wyman Museum - An eclectic assortment of machinery and oddities to enjoy, along with a living history museum on the property, giving you a glimpse into the life of the pioneers. Don't forget to say hello to Clyde, the resident elk!
Museum of Northwest Colorado - A wonderful museum that also houses a cowboy & gunfighter museum inside!
Moffat County Fairgrounds - Host to variety of events, including rodeos and horse-related events, as well as the 93rd Annual Moffat County Fair, held August 7-13th, 2011 !
Sheep Wagon Days - September 15-17th, 2011. "The key to budget travel is to approach in advance. When it occurs to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved holidays and/or going to see new destinations we have never been before, the fact of cost and budgeting is often in the back of our mind. Considering and spending our travel budget carefully is a priority for most families. Curbing consuming and charges, while still experiencing your vacation to its fullest, is the key to confirmed accomplishment and fiscal obligation. Your pocketbook and family will thank you! The thinking regarding economizing money while journeying is simple: Even if your personal budget is highly limited, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or departing the homestead! Also remembering that while traveling, whether on a price range or not, even the smallest of things can all add op to a big vacation or travel expenses!..". Held at the Wyman Museum, this family-friendly event offers sheep shearing demonstrations, working dog demos, great food, vendors, and more!
If you stay over in Craig, be sure to have warm clothes handy for the ride out; mornings can be chilly!
The road between Craig and Meeker (Highway 13) is a beautiful drive, no matter if you are on two wheels or four (or three!). It takes you through breathtaking, rugged ranch lands, where wildlife abound; spotting deer, elk, hawks, and other animals are a normal occurrance here. It's 50 miles from Craig, with rolling hills and easy curves to make the drive more enjoyable.
Meeker, CO is a wonderful town that embraces its old west roots. It's a haven for hunters and fisherman alike, but is also a fun place to stop, for a cup of coffee or a sandwich too. If you are interested in the latter, then you will definitely want to check out the Meeker Cafe. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Meeker Cafe is filled with wonderful flavors and colorful locals anytime of the day. The Meeker Cafe is connected to the beautifully refurbished Meeker Hotel, which offers a variety of rooms, individually decorated and appointed. You are sure to find the perfect room here, for a lovely weekend retreat! The Meeker Hotel also boasts an impressive collection of trophy animals from the region, displayed in the lobby area. You can check out photos of the Hotel and Cafe, as well as get info on accomodations by visiting their website (click here). Both the Cafe and the Hotel are located in historic downtown Meeker, which also offers a variety of other stores, all housed in beautiful old buildings. Visiting the Meeker Drug store is like walking back in time; it is a must see!
In addition to fantastic hunting and fishing, Meeker is also home to the Range Call Celebration held over the 4th of July weekend, and the Meeker Classic Sheepdog Trials, held september 7-11, 2011. Both events are great fun for the entire family, with concerts, rodeo events, food, and vendors galore!
Leaving Meeker on Highway 13 will deliver you to Rifle, Colorado, a distance of about 40 miles. Many parts of the highway are newly paved, and the rest is in good condition. It takes you through more scenic stretches of open range and ranch land. Due to some sections being open range, be sure to keep an eye out for a rogue cow or sheep on the highway, or near the shoulder!
This road trip can be an entire weekend adventure, or you may opt to simply visit one town for the day. Either way, you are sure to enjoy yourself in Craig and Meeker, Colorado!
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