‘Uranium Downs’ in Grand Junction, Colorado Was a Sure Bet for Entertainment

Imagine it's the 1970s or 1980s in Grand Junction, Colo. What are you going to do on the weekend?

Sure, you can hop in your car, fill it up, and cruise North Avenue. That's getting a bit drab, you just did it last weekend. Maybe, just maybe, you're a bit too old to hit the skating rink, and there's not a movie showing you want to see.

Betting on the ponies is the only thing left in town to cure your boredom.

Read More: The Story Behind Grand Junction, Colorado's Sugar Beet Factory

Wait?! Grand Junction Used to Have Horse Betting?

What we know as the Mesa County Fairgrounds today they were once known as Uranium Downs. Activities like horse racing, rodeos, wrestling, and greyhound racing were all popular throughout its history.

Obviously, the name Uranium Downs stems from the history of uranium mining and processing in the Grand Valley.

Most Grand Valley residents spent their Saturdays at the Downs cheering on their favorite horse, hoping to score a few extra dollars.

The popularity of horse betting reached its peak in the 70s and 80s. Placing a bet would cost you around two bucks -- around nine to 10 dollars in today's currency.

I've spent my fair share of time gambling a little money here and there on the ponies. I would like to have a place like this again for a little entertainment.