Things To Do
in Durango
Durango is a picturesque town located in southwestern Colorado, known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. The Animas River runs through the town, providing opportunities for river activities like kayaking and rafting. Durango is home to the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, offering scenic train rides through the mountains.
The town also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, museums, and performing arts venues to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. After that, take a stroll through the historic downtown to admire the unique architecture.
Visit the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and take a scenic train ride through the stunning mountains. Afterwards, explore the nearby shops for some authentic souvenirs.
Dine at one of Durango's charming restaurants that offer local cuisine. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the Animas River Trail.
Rent a mountain bike and hit the trails for an exhilarating ride in the surrounding hills. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery.
Pack a picnic lunch and have a break at one of the scenic overlooks. Then, explore the nearby Animas River for some kayaking or fishing.
Relax at a local brewery and enjoy some craft beer. Check out any live music events happening in town for a fun night out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
- Charming downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Close-knit community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and outdoor recreation.
- Rich history, including the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Colorado.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which may require commuting.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak seasons.
- Harsh winter weather with significant snowfall and potential travel disruptions.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services that larger cities offer.
Best Activities in Durango
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Durango offers an extensive network of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels, with scenic views of the San Juan Mountains.
There are numerous hiking trails in and around Durango, including the Animas Mountain Trail which provides stunning vistas and varying difficulty levels.
Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the Animas River, with options for both beginner and advanced paddlers.
Try your hand at fishing in the lakes and rivers around Durango, which are home to a variety of fish including trout and bass.
During the winter months, head to Purgatory Resort for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities.
Durango has excellent rock climbing spots for climbers of all levels, including both bouldering areas and sport climbing routes.
Explore the beautiful campgrounds around Durango, perfect for tent camping or RV adventures with access to nature.
Observe a variety of wildlife in the surrounding areas, including elk, deer, and various bird species.
Take a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, which offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Tours
Uncover the best of Durango with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Durango
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic train offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.
A scenic trail along the Animas River with great photo opportunities of the river and surrounding landscape.
A popular spot for capturing panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and the town of Durango.
Food in Durango
Durango Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Southwest cuisine, this spicy and savory stew-like dish is made with pork, seasonal vegetables, and roasted green chilies. It's a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic taste of Durango.
Must-Try!
Durango's proximity to pristine mountains and rivers makes it an ideal place for fresh trout dishes. Whether it's grilled, smoked, or pan-seared, the local trout is a favorite among seafood lovers.
These delicious stuffed and battered peppers are a popular dish in Durango, often filled with cheese, pork, or vegetables, and served with zesty sauces.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durango better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in downtown Durango, this vibrant market is brimming with locally-grown produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. It's a great place to savor fresh flavors and engage with the local community.
Durango hosts a regular food truck roundup, featuring a wide variety of cuisines from tacos and BBQ to vegan fare. This is an ideal spot to sample diverse street foods from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Durango is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles, staying on marked trails, and keeping noise levels down to preserve the tranquility of the outdoors.
Participate in local festivals, farmers' markets, and other community gatherings. This shows respect for local traditions and allows for meaningful interactions with residents.
Residents of Durango appreciate a friendly demeanor. Greet people with a smile, make eye contact, and engage in small talk to foster positive interactions and demonstrate respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durango with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Durango
Ensure a smooth experience
In Durango, Colorado, tipping practices are similar to those in many parts of the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers between 15-20% of the total bill. In addition, tipping at coffee shops and for delivery services is also common, with a typical range being around $1 to $5 depending on the service provided.
Payment methods in Durango include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and there are ATMs available throughout the area. Additionally, some establishments may offer local payment apps or options for tourists to make transactions easier.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Durango.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for hiking, wildflowers, and milder temperatures.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as rafting, mountain biking, and festivals.
Great for experiencing the changing colors of the trees and enjoying the harvest festivals.
Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the festive holiday atmosphere.
Durango at Night
Hiking in Durango
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, perfect for all skill levels.
A moderately difficult trail that winds through forests and alongside Bear Creek, featuring beautiful wildflowers in spring.
A popular loop trail with panoramic views of Durango and the Animas River, great for a quick hike.
A challenging hike that leads to the summit of La Plata Peak, one of the highest mountains in Colorado.
An easy to moderate trail following Hermosa Creek, offering opportunities for picnicking and fishing.
A lesser-known trail that takes hikers to a serene alpine lake, ideal for a peaceful day in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Durango through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Durango by plane.
Located approximately 250 miles southeast of Durango, DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 330 miles north of Durango, DEN is the largest airport in the United States by land area and a key hub for flights to and from various international destinations.
Located roughly 350 miles southwest of Durango, PHX is a major airport in Arizona with numerous domestic and international flights.
Approximately 770 miles southwest of Durango, LAX is one of the world's primary gateways for international travelers to and from the United States.
About 500 miles northwest of Durango, SLC serves as a hub for many airlines and offers flights to numerous international and domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Durango, typically representing a significant portion of the population.
A growing demographic group in Durango, contributing to the cultural diversity of the community.
This group includes individuals from various tribes and cultural backgrounds native to the region.
A smaller demographic group in Durango, contributing to the cultural fabric of the town.
This group represents a smaller percentage of the population but adds to the diversity of the community.
Includes individuals from various other racial and ethnic backgrounds, representing a minority of the population.
The Soul of Durango
Discover the essence of Durango through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Durango is renowned for its extensive and beautiful mountain biking trails, attracting cyclists of all skill levels.
With nearby Purgatory Resort, skiing is a popular winter sport in Durango, offering various slopes for different abilities.
Durango has numerous hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, making it a favorite outdoor activity.
The Animas River provides excellent white-water rafting opportunities, making it a popular sport during the summer months.
Durango's scenic trails and parks are popular for running, with various races and events held throughout the year.
High school football is notably popular in Durango, with local teams garnering significant community support.
Youth and adult soccer leagues are prevalent in the area, promoting community engagement through sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durango.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Durango's restaurants and cafes are generally accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many offering delicious plant-based alternatives and creative dishes featuring local produce.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free options in Durango, from dedicated gluten-free bakeries to restaurants that clearly label and cater to gluten-free dietary needs.
For other dietary restrictions or specific food allergies, it's advisable to communicate with restaurant staff who are often willing to customize dishes to accommodate guests' needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Durango with these cultural adventures.
