Taking time out of a busy schedule to enjoy a great getaway is always a good idea, especially when your travel sights are set on Durango, Colorado. This scenic locale is a great place to relax, unwind, and make time to explore some of the most iconic stops imaginable! When you’re looking to check all of the must-see stops off your itinerary, the following five Durango, CO tourist attractions are those you won’t want to miss.
Powerhouse Science Center
Enjoying time in Durango is always a treat, but if you happen to be in town with the entire family and you’re looking for Durango attractions that seamlessly pairs education, history, and entertainment, the Powerhouse Science Center is a stop that always finds a place near the top of the must-visit list. Situated at 1333 Camino Del Rio, the Powerhouse Science Center comes with the historical benefit of actually being located within a restored power plant! This science center features a wide variety of exhibits and displays that cover everything from the wonders of the cosmos to how gravity works, but there’s a special focus on energy production that fits the scene perfectly. Guests can get an idea of how energy production and consumption have changed in Durango over the decades and can even enjoy exhibits that show the power of solar panels at work. The science center is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9:30 am until 4:00 pm and Sundays and Mondays from noon to 4:00 pm.
Animas River Trail
The Animas River is a defining natural feature that runs through the heart of Durango. One of the most iconic ways to view and admire this waterway is by taking time to stroll or run along the Animas River Trail. Easily accessed at Animas City Park, the Animas River Tail stretches 7 miles along the river and provides a comprehensive route through several must-see parks and crosses multiple bridges too. It’s a scenic pathway that’s long been loved by locals and visitors alike. While many people choose to walk or jog their way along this much-loved trail, it also provides tempting terrain on which to settle in and enjoy an afternoon picnic.
Historic Downtown Durango Tourist Attractions
Durango offers up a modern Southwest setting for travelers to enjoy these days, but before those innovative comforts and luxuries ever appeared, Durango was a mining and railroad town decidedly saturated in a wild west approach to living. Visitors today can still get a sense of what life must have been like in Durango once upon a time by visiting the historic downtown district. Complete with historic stops and modern galleries and restaurants downtown is a place dedicated to entertainment that also enjoys its title as a Nationally Registered Historic District. Here, it’s easy to grab a coffee and snack on southern fare before heading over to the Strater Hotel on Third Avenue which dates back to 1887.
Purgatory Resort
When the fresh powder falls, Durango becomes a tourist hot spot amongst those travelers with a passion for downhill fun. This is in large part thanks to the city’s proximity to the iconic Purgatory Ski Resort. It’s a must-try if you’re one for challenging mountainside adventures that can’t wait for snowfall totals to surpass expectations. A stay in our Purgatory cabins will result in many options for fun activities and exploration! Situated in the surrounding San Juan Mountains, Purgatory Resort is a mere 25 miles from downtown Durango. 5 terrain parks and 10 lifts are defining features of this inviting resort which is made up of ancient glaciers and mesmerizing modern elements too. Guests are often thrilled to find there are 88 trails that maze their way through this resort which encompasses a breathtaking 1,360 acres of skiable terrain in total.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
For all of the fun activities that are waiting for travelers in Durango, there’s nothing quite as iconic as a trip on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam engine offers guests a chance to take a ride through Durango’s scenic landscape on board a train that speaks to an era gone by. Railroad culture in Durango dates back to 1879 when the town was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway. The original depot dating back to 1882 is still in working condition and today, hosts the railroad’s museum as well. After enjoying a scenic ride through the San Juan Mountains, trail revelers can enjoy a look around at the exhibits that showcase the area’s rich railroad story, artifacts, and photographs in detail.
Your Durango Adventure Awaits
There’s no reason to wait when you’re ready to enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure to Durango, Colorado. Let the team at Durango Colorado Vacations handle your accommodation details so when you arrive in town, all you have to worry about is focusing on the fun! Our rental properties bring the comfort, style, and luxury you deserve all while keeping you close to those Durango, CO tourist attractions you can’t wait to explore. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning! Browse our apartment vacation rentals in Durango.
