From its historic downtown district to the plethora of national parks and monuments in its vicinity, Durango tourist attractions offer unique experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.
In This Article
This article will serve as a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking to make the most of their Durango vacation, highlighting must-see attractions, local culture, dining, events, and more.
TL;DR
Durango is renowned for its outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, rafting, and winter activities in the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
Historic Downtown Durango and the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad provide glimpses into the area's frontier past.
Visitors can explore ancient Indigenous sites like Mesa Verde National Park and Aztec Ruins National Monument.
Durango has a lively arts and culinary scene, with local galleries, cultural events and restaurants dishing up Southwest cuisine.
Durango’s Unique Outdoor Playground
The star attraction luring visitors to Durango year after year is its spectacular natural landscape, offering endless outdoor recreation. The San Juan Mountains surrounding Durango provide terrain for activities to suit any adrenaline junkie, from heart-pumping whitewater rafting on the Animas River to snowmobiling through fresh powder.
Meanwhile, Durango’s 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from meandering walks to steep, challenging treks, offer paths for nature lovers of all abilities. Top picks include the Animas Mountain Trail, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Durango, and the Perins Peak Trail, winding through peaceful aspen and pine forests.
Durango is also revered as one of the world’s best mountain biking destinations, boasting extensive single-track trails that traverse high alpine meadows and skirt sheer cliff edges. Expert riders flock to the famed Horse Gulch Trail System, while beginners can hone skills on tamer trails like Twin Buttes.
The city’s show-stopping natural asset is the Animas River, providing whitewater rafting thrills in summer and a picturesque ice skating ribbon in Durango’s winter wonderland. The river is flanked by numerous parks with hiking and biking trails, including the scenic Animas River Trail.
Immersing in History and Culture
Beyond adrenaline-pumping adventures, Durango offers opportunities to engage with the region’s vibrant arts, culture, and history. An essential visit is downtown Durango’s historic district, lined with lovingly preserved Victorian buildings housing quirky galleries, shops, restaurants, and saloons. Pop into the Strater Hotel to admire the Western decor and soak up the frontier atmosphere.
The crown jewel of Durango’s cultural attractions is the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a national historic landmark running steam locomotives along the breathtaking Animas River Canyon. Riding in vintage carriages as coal-fired engines chug by riverside cliffs and forested hillsides transports visitors back to Durango’s mining heyday.
Durango also provides a gateway to ancient Indigenous heritage and ruins, including the magnificent cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, the ancestral Puebloan buildings of Aztec Ruins National Monument, and the towers of Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Understanding past Indigenous cultures that call this region home gives deeper meaning to the present-day destination.
Arts, Events, and Culinary Delights
Beyond historical sites, Durango offers an array of cultural attractions like the Durango Arts Center, home to rotating fine art exhibits and art classes. Visitors can browse the downtown art galleries along Main Ave or watch local theater productions.
Year-round events like the Durango Independent Film Festival, the Snowdown Fiesta Winter Festival, and the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown infuse the town with community spirit. The packed calendar provides entertainment during any visit.
Meanwhile, Durango’s culinary scene satisfies foodies with mouthwatering Southwest cuisine. From local institutions to farm-to-table restaurants, Durango’s eclectic eateries fuse native flavors with contemporary flair. Don’t miss Durango’s signature Grassburger for an iconic meal.
Surrounding Natural Wonders
While Durango itself warrants days of exploration, one of the perks of visiting is the proximity to even more spectacular natural attractions. The city is the perfect base camp for taking day trips to nearby national forests, parks, and monuments.
Adventurers bound for Silverton can ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad past cascading waterfalls and towering peaks. Hikers and mountain bikers should hit the trails in the San Juan National Forest or opt for Jeep tours exploring the forest’s rugged backcountry.
Meanwhile, Mesa Verde National Park’s magnificent cliff dwellings provide a window into the Ancestral Puebloan culture. Chimney Rock National Monument lets visitors ponder the impressive twin rock towers and ancestral sites. For a scenic driving route showcasing ancient Indigenous heritage, take the Trail of the Ancients Byway to sites like Hovenweep National Monument and Canyons of the Ancients.
Here are some great nearby tourist destinations to add to your list when you visit Durango:
San Juan Mountain Region and the San Juan National Forest
With its winning combination of outdoor adventures, historical sites, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, Durango tourist attractions promise an unforgettable Colorado vacation filled with Rocky Mountain magic. Whether visiting for a few days or a few weeks, the endless sights, activities, and discoveries in this thriving mountain town are sure to enchant first-time visitors and loyal returnees alike.
FAQ
What is there to do in Durango with kids?
Some top family-friendly activities in Durango include riding the historic steam train, hiking easy trails like Overend Mountain Park, river rafting, visiting local museums like the Powerhouse Science Center, and exploring downtown’s quirky shops and restaurants.
Where should I stay when visiting Durango?
Durango offers diverse lodging options to suit different budgets and styles, from luxurious resorts like Purgatory Resort and rustic cabins in the mountains to convenient downtown hotels like the DoubleTree by Hilton and quaint B&Bs along Main Ave.
What is the best time of year to visit Durango?
Durango offers spectacular scenery and activities year-round. Summer is peak season with warm weather perfect for hiking, biking, rafting, and cultural events. Spring and fall feature cooler weather for exploring downtown and sightseeing, while winter offers snow sports and holiday festivities.
How do I get around Durango without a car?
Durango’s free T transit system offers convenient transportation around downtown and to nearby attractions. Visitors can also take bus tours, ride the historic railroad to Silverton, or rent bikes for leisurely rides along the Animas River Trail.
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