Museums & History

Lifelong learners rejoice! Discover Durango’s abundant history at any of our many museums.

Durango History

If these mountains could talk!

Durango has a long and rich history that both history buffs and curious folks of all ages will enjoy. Durango was founded in 1880 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. By July of 1882, tracks to Silverton were completed and the train began transporting both freight and passengers. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was originally constructed to haul silver and gold ore, but passengers soon realized that it was the view that was truly precious. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad celebrated its 125th year of continuous operation in 2006 and continues to be a favorite attraction on a Colorado sightseeing vacation!

From local history and railroad museums of historic downtown Durango to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, Durango is truly where the old west survived, and where the new west thrives.