Durango, Colorado is perfectly placed in the southwestern corner of the Centennial State of Colorado and includes one of the southern sections of the Rocky Mountain Range. The Animas River flows through town, Durango boasts a bustling, year-round culture and lifestyle. Spring, summer, fall, and winter each provide something unique, keeping both locals and visitors busy with activities and events. Things to do in Durango, CO are seemingly endless with miles of trails, a long history to explore, and culinary delights to indulge in, plus much more. Below are five things that Durango is famous for.
1. Outdoor Activities
Located in the southwest corner of the Rocky Mountains, Durango is well-known for the stunning mountain ranges which provide countless natural and fun activities. From hiking and biking on the many trails to skiing and snowmobiling in the winter and fishing and rafting in the warmer months, there are numerous ways to enjoy nature here. Multiple lakes, rivers, and streams offer cool relief in the summer and, of course, we can’t leave out the natural hot springs, some developed and others hidden off the beaten path, for relaxing warmth in the winter.
2. The Scenery
Beyond the many ways to explore the area, the expansive mountain views whether from town, atop a mountain, or from your back porch, are breathtaking. The four distinct seasons offer an ever-changing landscape from green grass and flowers of every color to golden leaves and a white winter wonderland. While some may prefer to own a second home here and enjoy only the warmer weather (or vice versa, taking advantage of the local ski resorts), there are many options for living and visiting the area.
3. History & Culture
Founded in 1881, Durango has a long history centered around mining and the Old West. However, even before the gold rush that brought many to Silverton and Durango, the Ancestral Puebloans built and inhabited what we now call Mesa Verde National Park. As the area was developed, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was built to transport ore, coal, and people, although today, it’s specifically used as a scenic railroad. Thanks to this rich history and stunning scenery, over 80 movies have been shot in the Durango area including popular titles such as Denver and Rio Grande, Around the World in 80 Days, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, National Lampoon’s Vacation, True Grit, and The Lone Ranger.
4. The Restaurant Scene
With more dining options per capita than San Francisco, Durango has a huge variety of eateries for a mountain town. You can find everything from elevated, fine dining to local breweries, wood fired pizzas, Nepalese traditions, and a variety of Mexican choices. Many restaurants are family-friendly, with plenty of options for a 21+ night out. After dinner establishments include speakeasies, old-western themed bars, and billiard halls. Even after a late night, there are plenty of diners and cafes for a fresh cup of coffee and a homemade pastry or hot breakfast dish. Between Historic Downtown Durango, food trucks, and hidden gems, there is no shortage of delicious options!
5. Events
For a smaller city, Durango has many weekly, monthly, and annual events. Of course, national holidays such as Veterans Day, 4th of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years are celebrated with parades, local shopping days, and community gatherings. However, Durango also has a few unique celebrations most notably: Snowdown, the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, and Animas River Days. Each of these events highlights one (or more!) of Durango’s signature activities from biking and the train to the Animas River and our vibrant community. Throughout the year, there are hundreds of events that draw tourists to the area and engage locals too.
These are just five of the things that Durango, Colorado is most famous for. There are many other attractions and destinations to explore in the greater Southwest Colorado area including Mesa Verde National Park and surrounding towns. Please do not hesitate to contact The Durango Team at The Wells Group for more information on Durango activities for every season.
