Things To Do in Durango

With Durango as your base, you won't run out of things to do. In fact, we're sure you'll want to spend a couple of extra days. 

Located in southwestern Colorado, Durango features numerous lodging and entertainment opportunities that feature something for even the most discerning tastes. You'll find that Durango is the ideal destination for your next family vacation, business trip, or group outing.

Durango offers a variety of outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities. Climb aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a leisurely trip through the canyons of southwest Colorado’s San Juan National Forest, or visit one of the area's outdoor playgrounds and enjoy miles of world-class skiing, hiking, and mountain biking trails.

Check out southwestern Colorado’s cosmopolitan side when you experience all of the comforts and attractions that downtown Durango has to offer. Immerse yourself in our town’s vibrant heritage on a walking tour through historic downtown, and savor a gourmet meal at one of the area’s many cafés or restaurants. Take in a show at a Durango theatre or music venue, or feed your creative side at one of Durango’s museums or art galleries.

Whether you’re planning a small family vacation or a large conference, the Durango area has plenty of lodging options that will fit any size group. From cozy bed & breakfasts and rustic alpine cabins to large luxury hotels, Durango’s accommodations and lodging options are perfect for any occasion. From car rentals to public transportation, get around Durango easily & stress-free!

What to See and Do

With more than 18,000 residents, Durango is the largest town in southwest Colorado. It’s also certainly one of the happiest. Locals are fond of saying that those who choose to live in Durango do so not for fame and fortune, but for the superb quality of life.

Durango Sightseeing

Durango is situated a short drive from Four Corners Monument – the spot where New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado meet. The surrounding landscape of Durango is diverse and often dramatic, spanning from the red sandstone bluffs of the Animas River Valley to the jagged peaks of the San Juan Mountains, a few of which rise to elevations over 14,000 feet. To the west lie arid desert lands, and to the north of Durango lies the southern border of the vast 2 million acres San Juan National Forest.

Durango Outdoor Activities and Recreation

Durango is Colorado’s year-round playground! In the spring and summer, hike through fields of Colorado wildflowers, mountain bike endless miles of Colorado bike trails, and raft the waters of the Animas River.

Feed your adventurous side on a Jeep or dogsled tour of the rugged San Juan Mountains. Ski the locals’ favorite terrain at Purgatory Resort, home to some of the most spectacular views you’ll see from any ski resort in Colorado.

You will be amazed by how much there is to do, see, and experience in Durango!

World-Class Attractions

Durango offers an endless variety of year-round activities and world-class experiences for the entire family.

• Take a trip through the breathtaking canyons of the San Juan National Forest, aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
• Retrace the ancient footsteps of the Ancestral Pueblo people, who once lived in the amazing cliff dwellings which you can visit in nearby Mesa Verde National Park.
• Take a stroll back in time, with a walking tour of historic downtown Durango and explore Durango’s eclectic shops, art galleries, and excellent restaurants.
• Enjoy the thrills and romance of ‘Old West’ entertainment under the stars at the Bar D Chuckwagon.

Durango Arts and Culture

Visit any of Durango’s art galleries, museums, and cultural centers and enjoy Durango’s vibrant art scene. From local artisans to fine performing arts, public murals and sculptures to intricate Western jewelry, get inspired by Durango’s rich arts and culture scene. Be sure to check out the Durango special events calendar for a colorful mix of Colorado art events.

Durango Special Events

Durango hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. You’ll discover great food, wine and art festivals, plus events celebrating biking, rafting, snowfall and all things unique to Durango! Check out Durango’s special events calendar for current listings – and please feel free to contact us to get the latest information.

Elevation and Climate

Durango sits at 6,512 feet above sea level. The lovely Durango climate is quite mild and moderate, with typical summer daytime highs in the 80s, and nighttime lows in the 50s. Come prepared with light layers in summer, warm layers in winter. Check out current Durango weather conditions to help you plan your packing.

We can’t wait to help you enjoy Durango! Plan your trip today!