It's a Golden time to be in Durango...
Durango is the kind of town you daydream about - but spend a few days here, and you'll realize what the locals already know: this is a REAL town.
There are endless ways to rejuvenate, reinvigorate, and relax. Here are some suggestions for your Durango itinerary:
DAY 1:
Take a trip back in time aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroadas it winds 45 miles through National Forest to the historic mining town of Silverton. The train has been in continuous operation for 125 years, and over 200,000 visitors of all ages take this unforgettable journey each year. The train follows the Animas River through breathtaking gorges and canyons and affords passengers priceless scenery viewable only from the train's rails.
The train runs year-round -
north to Silverton in the Spring, Summer and Fall months, and to Cascade Canyon during the winter months. Admission to the Railroad Museum and freight yard is included with the purchase of a train ticket. For information and reservations call 1-888-872-4607 or 970-247-2733 or visit them at www.DurangoTrain.com
By Night: Melodrama
After returning to town following a ride on the train, relive the Golden Age of Entertainment at the acclaimed Melodrama and Vaudeville. Step back in time and sing along to your favorite tunes with the Ragtime Piano Player and enjoy the entertainment. The Vaudeville Revue that follows will put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
DAY 2:
Mesa Verde Country and Archaeological Sites
Southwest Colorado is the archaeological center of the United States. Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 45 minutes west of Durango. Explore the ancient Cliff Dwellings of Mesa Verde with a guided tour o
r on your own. Mesa Verde was selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of "The Best Places of a Lifetime to Visit", as well as named the "#1 Monument in the World" by readers of Conde Naste Traveler. Other archaeological day trips include Crow Canyon, Anasazi Heritage Center, Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Chaco Canyon, Chimney Rock, Aztec National Monument, Hovenweep and the Canyon of the Ancients. Many sites open year-round.
Dinner under the stars with Real Cowboys
After exploring the sites of Mesa Verde Country, head on over to the Bar D Chuckwagon for dinner and good ol'fashioned cowboy poetry, singing, entertainment and dinner. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
DAY 3:
Historic Downtown Durango
Downtown Durango is a Nationally Registered Historic District, home to the Railroad Depot and Museum, renowned art galleries, award-winning restaurants, day spas, historic hotels, eclectic shopping, quaint cafes, theaters, and uniquely Durango events. Take a self-guided walking tour of historic Main and Third Avenues - Maps and advice available at the Visitor Center (111 South Camino del Rio on Highways 550 & 160, at Santa Rita Park)
These are just a FEW ideas. Give us a call or stop into the Visitor Center when you get to town for more great Golden Age itinerary ideas.
Toll Free: 1-800-463-8726
Email: VisitorCenter@durango.org
Office: 111 S. Camino del Rio (On Hwy 550 & 160 at Santa Rita Park)
Photo Credits:
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Highline: Photo by Robert Royem
Mesa Verde National Park Cliff Dwellings: Photo by Yvonne Lashmett
