Everything You Need to Know About James Ranch in Durango
If you want to have an advantage at one of the most unique (and delicious) attractions in the area, pay a visit to James Ranch in Durango. This site is a ranch, market, and restaurant, all rolled into one! As a bonus, the site also hosts concerts and other fun events through the year. So come hungry and ready to walk! You’re not going to want to miss this awesome adventure.
Are you searching for more great attractions just like the James Ranch in Durango? Click here! We’ve listed our favorite attractions, festivals and events, and outdoor activities in the area.
An Insider’s Guide to James Ranch in Durango
Find out the scoop on James Ranch!
Location and Hours
James Ranch is nestled in this beautiful Animas River Valley, just 10 miles outside of Durango, CO. The hours vary depending on the season. During the summer (from Memorial Day to mid-October) it’s open Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. During the snowy months, the James Ranch is only open on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
What to do During Your Visit to the Ranch
Take a Tour
The first thing you should do is take one of the available tours. If you’re traveling with a larger group, we suggest making a reservation for the guided tour, occurring every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The cost for the tour is $25.00 per seat and it lasts a little over two hours. The guide, Dave James, will lead your group through the lush green pastures where the cattle graze. You will also visit the seasonal dairy and cheese-making facility. Best of all, you’ll learn about sustainable farming and ranching, and its importance to healthy animals from one of the founders of James Ranch.
For visitors who would prefer a shorter tour, there are tour booklets available by the market. The walking tour takes about 15 to 20 minutes and allows you a great look at the beautiful land and happy animals, all while teaching you about the ways in which the families of James Ranch manage their land and animals.
Visit the Market
After you’ve finished your tour of the area, visit the James Ranch Market. You’ll be able to purchase the many goods that are produced on the ranch, like raw milk cheese, grass-fed beef, homemade jellies and jam, and ice cream! You’ll also be able to browse through a selection of products from other local and organic farmers. Bring something back to cook in the kitchen of one of our beautiful rentals!
Enjoy a Meal
If the tour and market weren’t enough to entice you to visit, the James Ranch menu is sure to do the trick! Harvest Grill is the Ranch’s restaurant. The cuisine is classic American but made with organic, sustainable, grass-based meats, cheese, and vegetables. Try the signature burger, topped with Belford cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, and the signature rosemary and garlic mayonnaise! If you’re not a meat-eater, you’ll enjoy the veggie burger: sliced summer squash seasoned and grilled topped with everything from the signature burger.
Attend an Event
If you visit the restaurant on a Thursday during the summer months, you’ll be treated to Burger & Band night. Admission is $20 and includes the signature burger (beef or vegetable) and a concert. Bring a blanket to have the most incredible picnic experience of your life!
Return to Your Beautiful Rental from Durango Colorado Vacations
After you’ve enjoyed an incredible day at James Ranch in Durango, return to one of our vacation rentals to enjoy your night. 5th Avenue Beauty is a modern three-bedroom, two-bathroom rental located close to Main Street. You’ll love cooking a meal with your James Ranch meats and cheeses in this luxurious and spacious kitchen or grilling a burger on the Charcoal BBQ in the backyard. Best of all, the house is pet-friendly with prior approval, so the whole family can come on vacation! Contact us today to book stay!
