Durango, Colorado, may be a small town but it has a lively bar and nightlife scene. From quaint historic saloons to trendy craft breweries, there are libations for everyone in this charming mountain town. Whether you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere to grab a beer with friends or a place to dance the night away, Durango's bars and nightclubs have you covered. Many of the establishments are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the town's nightlife. So, whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to check out these top bars and nightspots for a fun and memorable evening.
Get ready to explore the best bars and nightlife options our town has to offer with this guide. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, a cold beer, or some live music, there's options abound for nighttime adventure in this mountain town.
Durango: Where the Adventure Continues Past Sundown
Durango, Colorado is known for its breathtaking natural surroundings, and its bars and nightlife scene are no exception. The city’s nightlife is strongly influenced by the outdoor activities that the area has to offer, and visitors can expect a laid-back, casual atmosphere. The bars and nightlife in Durango are perfect for those who love to spend their days hiking, skiing, or exploring the great outdoors and then unwind with a beer or cocktail in the evening. There is a huge variety of bars, breweries, and live music venues to choose from.
In this guide to Durango’s nightlife, we’ll highlight some of the best bars and other late-evening attractions in the area. Visitors can see the unique atmosphere and features of each spot, including what kind of crowd they attract and the types of drinks they serve. We will also provide recommendations for those looking for something specific, such as live music or a sports bar. Additionally, we also have suggestions for those who want to explore the city's nightlife beyond just bars, including late-night dining options and other attractions.
Diamond Belle Saloon
The Diamond Belle Saloon, located in the historic Strater Hotel in downtown Durango, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The saloon is famous for its old-west atmosphere, with ornate decor, a mahogany bar, and a player piano. The saloon features live music nightly, with musicians playing everything from country to jazz to rock and roll. The menu offers classic bar food like burgers and fries, as well as a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. The Diamond Belle Saloon is known for its Western charm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Durango's nightlife.
Wild Horse Saloon
The Wild Horse Saloon is a popular bar located in downtown Durango that offers a lively atmosphere with music and dancing. The saloon features rustic Western decor, and its spacious dance floor is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Along with the full bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails, the saloon also has a variety of drink specials and options to choose from. Popular drinks include margaritas, martinis, and an extensive selection of whiskeys. The saloon also has an indoor balcony for those who prefer to enjoy their drinks in privacy. The Wild Horse Saloon has an energetic vibe and great drink options, perfect for those looking to swing to the rhythms of the Southwest.
Starlight Lounge
A stylized and intimate bar located in downtown Durango, The Starlight Lounge has a unique Americana vibe, with ambiance with diner-esque furnishings, dim lighting, and a ping pong table creating a perfect atmosphere for a night out. The bar features an extensive collection of local Colorado spirits, as well as a selection of fine wines and craft cocktails. The bartenders are skilled in mixology and can make recommendations based on your preferences. The Starlight Lounge also hosts live music, comedy performances, and drag shows on select nights, adding to the already lively atmosphere.
Anarchy Brewing Company
Anarchy Brewing Company is a nano-brewery in Durango, Colorado, that boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere of punk rock, outdoor, and mountain bike enthusiasts. They offer an extensive rotating selection of handcrafted beers, including some of the most creative and unique brews in the area. Besides beer, they encourage bringing your own food from other local restaurants and also offer sandwiches through Chalkboard Kitchen Food Truck. With friendly staff and an inviting atmosphere, Anarchy Brewing Company is the perfect place to unwind with friends or to explore the local beer culture.
El Rancho Tavern
Established in 1948, the El Rancho Tavern is a Durango institution and is considered one of the rowdiest bars in the Four Corners. This dive bar has a high-octane atmosphere with a packed dance floor that is perfect for a thrilling night out. The bar is known for its cheap drinks, friendly service, and lively atmosphere. Beer is the main attraction here, with a wide selection of local and national brews available. Happy hour runs from 4 pm to 7 pm daily, and there are always daily specials on drinks. The El Rancho Tavern is also home to regular live music performances, weekend DJs, and other events, making it a great spot to enjoy some local entertainment while sipping on a cold beer.
The Bookcase and Barber
It’s one of the more unique bars on this list: The Bookcase & Barber is a unique speakeasy-style bar located in downtown Durango, Colorado. The ambiance of the bar is high-class and intimate, with walls lined with books and dark leather seating. The bar also operates as a barber shop during the day, adding to the vintage feel of the place. The drink menu features classic cocktails made with house-infused liquors and locally sourced ingredients. The signature drinks of the bar are aptly named after famous writers from the 1900s; The bar also offers a selection of local beers, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks. The bartenders are extremely knowledgeable and always willing to make recommendations based on your preferences.
Derailed Pour House
Stepping into the Derailed Pour House is like stepping into a Lewis Caroll novel. It’s a fantastical hangout spot with stunning decor, making it a popular spot amongst locals and visitors alike in Durango, Colorado. This lively bar offers an eccentric atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends exploring the city. The Derailed Pour House plays music videos from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, adding to the patchwork vibe of the establishment. It also offers an impressive selection of beers on tap. Wine, spirits, and handcrafted cocktails are also available for those who prefer a different drink. It is currently ranked #19 in the “Everyday Eats” category on Tripadvisor, which should tell how delicious the grub here is.
The Garage
The Garage is a unique, action-packed watering hole. With its industrial-chic ambiance, it has transformed a former automobile repair shop into a bustling hotspot for locals and visitors alike. The Garage Bar entices patrons with its wide selection of coin-operated games and a spacious dance floor. Here, patrons can play a huge variety of games, from pool tables to vintage arcade staples. It is also home to not one, but two, full bars with a wide selection of spirits. It’s an electric atmosphere at night and is usually packed during the later hours with patrons from all over the Southwest.
Balcony Bar and Grill
The Balcony Bar & Grill is a popular late-night spot located in downtown Durango. It offers an elevated patio that overlooks Main Avenue, providing a perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying a drink or meal. The bar has an extensive drink menu with a variety of cocktails, local beers, and wine. Their food menu has a wide selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Some of the popular items on their menu are fried pickles, BBQ pork tacos, and fried catfish baskets. Balcony Bar & Grill also has live music and events on certain nights, adding to the lively and upbeat atmosphere of the place.
Animas River Beer Garden
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in mountain culture than by the river with a craft IPA. The Animas River Beer Garden offers just that with its location on the banks of the Animas River, providing a scenic and relaxing environment to enjoy a cold beverage. Located in the Doubletree by Hilton in Durango, the garden has an excellent beer selection, the beer garden also serves delicious food items such as pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The staff is knowledgeable about the beers and happy to make recommendations. If you want to walk off some brews, the 7-mile Animas River Trail is located just outside. Suffice it to say, a great spot to unwind and take in the stunning views while enjoying some tasty brews.
The Nugget Mountain Bar
Known as “America’s Last Great Mountain Bar,” the Nugget Mountain Bar is a popular spot for the skiers of Purgatory Mountain Resort. Located in the heart of downtown Durango, this eccentric bar has a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. The bar serves beer, wine, cocktails, and a variety of spirits. They also have a menu of tasty bar food, including sliders, tacos, and salads. The bar features live music on weekends and hosts various funky events throughout the year. Whether you're looking for a place to catch up with friends after hitting the slopes or just have a few drinks, The Nugget Mountain Bar is a great choice.
Conclusion
Durango offers a unique and exciting nightlife and bar scene, influenced by its beautiful natural surroundings. With a wide variety of bars, breweries, and other late-evening attractions to choose from, there is something for everyone. From the classic Western atmosphere of the Diamond Belle Saloon to the more modern and eclectic vibe of Anarchy Brewing Company, visitors and locals alike can find their perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax. Whether you prefer craft beer, cocktails, or a simple glass of wine, the drink options are plentiful and varied. The nightlife in Durango is to be noticed, and offers a great way to unwind and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere after a day of outdoor adventures.
