Orchard City is a unique agricultural, residential and recreational area nestled between the cities of Delta, Cedaredge to the north, and Hotchkiss to the east.

Orchard City is known for its outstanding orchards featuring a variety of apples, cherries, apricots, pears and peaches. It is also well known for its variety of organic farm produce and livestock including cattle, sheep, elk and buffalo. 

The Big E Market is an authentic rural shop, providing great produce and meats. Surface Creek Winery and Gallery in the historic stone Odd Fellows Hall shows off some of the local talents in art and in winemaking. Take something home to remember this quaint community.

Several of the buildings on the highway are constructed using the local volcanic rock. The Eckert Presbyterian church is nearly 100 years old and has some fine examples of this rockwork. The Eckert Creamery sold butter to the public until the 80s, it will open in the summer of 2007 as a  brandy distillery.

Wander off in either direction from the highway and you will pass through a countryside that produces a variety of fruit. Meander up to Antelope Hill Orchards and get a great view of the landscape. Cattle ranches dot the view. Hart's Basin (Fruit grower's Reservoir) has been a birders heaven for many years. Annually the Sandhill Cranes return here on their northward migration. Thousands of these birds take brief sanctuary here. An occasional pelican can be found among them. Here eagles soar in the skies while cattle egrets pursue their interests on local ranches. Join us for Eckert Crane Days each March.