Deciding to spend some quality time in scenic Durango, Colorado is always a sure way to treat yourself to a revitalizing experience from start to finish. Here, there’s truly something for travelers with interests of all types to enjoy, whether you’re one for the great outdoors or you’re looking to focus on a luxurious and relaxing stay. Thrill-seekers, history buffs, and cultural enthusiasts alike will find reasons to return to Durango time and again after a first visit this way. If you happen to have three days to spare in the name of a Durango-bound vacation this year, the following are the best things to do in Durango, Colorado and a great place to start to make the most of it all.
Day 1: Spend Time Downtown and Learning More About Local History
The first day of your three-day journey to Durango should begin in historic downtown to get a feel for your surroundings. This area is very much considered a living museum in its own right, and sets a vibrant scene for visitors who are looking to lean heavily into Old West vibes. Simply strolling down Main Avenue puts you in the heart of a space where restored Victorian-era buildings can be admired just about everywhere you look.
These days, many of these buildings host great restaurants to enjoy, boutique shops to check out, and great galleries to browse as well. That said, the restoration efforts here have been top-notch, allowing you to really feel you’ve stepped back in time, even as you’re shopping for modern goods.
Once you’re satisfied with your time exploring, be sure to stop by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum. Located at 479 Main Avenue, this is a great place to learn more about Durango’s rich railroad history while getting up close to some incredible artifacts, train cars, and locomotives right on-site.
Day 2: Explore the Great Outdoors and Local Views in Good Company
The second day of your journey to Durango is an opportunity to really focus on kicking things off by exploring the great outdoors. Durango is known and loved for is dynamic landscapes, and a great way to see it up close is to set aside time for an early morning hike.
The Animas Mountain Trail is a terrific option when you’re looking for a challenge that comes with the reward of incredible views. This trail runs just under 6 miles in total and will likely take around 3 to 4 hours to complete at a moderate pace. The trail takes you to the summit for panoramic vistas to enjoy, and there’s a very good chance you’ll run into boulderers and rope climbers along the way.
Afterward, give yourself a break without missing out on the beauty of your surroundings by booking your place on a Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad excursion alongside family and friends. This 3.5-hour tour will take you along the Animas River and provide gorgeous views of the San Juan Mountains. From your place on this historic steam train, you’ll enjoy scenic moments in Durango you won’t soon forget.
Day 3: Discover Mesa Verde National Park and the San Juan Skyway
The final day of your journey to Durango takes you to Mesa Verde National Park. Not far from Durango, this national park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient cliff dwellings have been well preserved. While there are always options to explore at your own pace, booking a guided tour is a great way to maximize your time and learn more from an expert along the way.
Once you’ve had a chance to see these inspiring cliff dwellings up close, you’ll want to follow it up with a scenic drive along the iconic San Juan Highway. This loop is one of the best things to do in Durango, Colorado when you’re looking to leave your trip on a beautiful note, complete with vistas out and over valleys, mountains, and historic surrounding mining towns.
Restaurants to Enjoy When You’re Here
Each day of your journey to Durango is bound to come with some cravings to curb. If you have a love for all things craft brews, you really can’t go wrong with including a stop at Steamworks Brewing Co. to your itinerary during your trip! For those evenings when an elegant setting and finely crafted fare are what would hit the spot, Chimayo Stone Fired Kitchen on Main Avenue is a must. For a more casual dining experience with a focus on family-friendly vibes, Balcony Bar and Grill is always a good choice.
Book Great Accommodations to Match Your Adventure
No matter when you arrive in Durango, how long you stay, or how many others you’re traveling alongside this year, Durango Colorado Vacations has the world-class accommodations to keep you close to cool things to do in Durango and living in style. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting cabins in Durango, CO available, and how we can help you create a vacation experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind. We look forward to seeing you in Durango soon!
