The Powerhouse is a center for science, learning, and fun, and an amazing community amenity. Specifically designed for younger learners, it offers plenty of activities, programs, and opportunities for visitors of all ages.
The Powerhouse Building History
Located near downtown Durango along the Animas River, this historic building was built in 1893 as a power plant. After about 80 years as the power supplier for the area, the facility was shut down and boarded up. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that a revitalization plan took shape, leading to the creation of the Powerhouse we know today. Initial clean up and restoration were completed in 2006 with ongoing construction for the grand opening in 2011. However, the evolution of the building and organization is ongoing, continuously adding new opportunities and amenities.
The Exhibits, Activities, Programs, and Events
From gadgets and gizmos to climbing areas and science labs, there is plenty to get your hands on at The Powerhouse. Interactive outer space, dinosaurs, and every day science principles exhibits are fun to engage with. Camps are offered all year round with options like “Future Inventors”, “Bug Buddies”, “Wizarding World”, “Out of This World”, and “LEGO League”. Special school/club group field trips make for an exciting learning outing while their outreach program allows the experience to come to you! Ongoing events such as trivia night, Tiny Tuesdays, and summer community concerts are hosted here. They also offer venue rentals for unique retreats, weddings, presentations, meetings, fundraisers, and celebrations.
Passes & Membership
The Powerhouse museum is open to the public and offers day passes - perfect for visitors. Monthly membership plans range from two to eight people and include a variety of additional benefits such as discounts, early-access, and free/discounted access to 500+ other science museums across the nation.
You truly can’t miss this iconic building with the original smoke stack still protruding and marking the historic presence found here. With everchanging exhibits and events, The Powerhouse is a wonderful place to visit in Durango. Please don’t hesitate to contact The Durango Team at The Wells Group for more information and other recommendations on things to do in our area!
