25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Durango (Colorado)
People love Durango, Colorado for its southwestern charm, beautiful scenery, and long past.
People who live in Colorado call it the “Hollywood of Colorado.” Durango is more than just the name of an SUV.
Many artists have found inspiration there, and it’s known as one of the happiest places to live in the winter in the state.
Because of this, Durango, CO has a lot of lovely things to do.
Colorado is the most well-known state when it comes to scenery and adventure.
Because of this, you can expect to find a lot of sites for people who like nature and people who like thrills.
Durango always has lots of things to do, no matter what time of year it is.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities, from beautiful hiking trails and ski resorts to thrilling snowmobile rides and aerial adventure classes.
Durango has a lot more to offer than just outdoor activities. It has great museums, restaurants, breweries, and more.
Take a look at some of the great places you could visit while you’re in Durango.
1. Dalton Ranch Golf Club
The Dalton Ranch Golf Club is a scenic 18-hole golf course situated in the foothills of the San Juan Mountains.
The views and golf at this, one of the nicest courses in the area, are truly magnificent.
On 250 acres of vast green land, each hole opens up to a beautiful new view.
Dart Ranch Golf Club is more than just a golf course, though.
You should also eat at Alce’ Restaurant at Dalton land, which is a world-class restaurant with views of the land.
This high-class restaurant in the building is everything you’d expect from such a great club and more.
The patio has seats that look out over the beautiful Hermosa Cliffs, so you can always enjoy dinner with a view.
Alce’ is the place to go after a long day on the golf course because it has delicious food, a long list of cocktails, local beers, and a huge list of wines.
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Address: 589 Co Rd 252, Durango, CO 81301, United States
2. Durango Botanic Gardens
The public is welcome to enjoy, look around, and learn all about these beautiful botanic parks.
The Durango Botanic Gardens are one of the most beautiful places in town. They are located around the public library.
The grounds are open to the public every day for tours. You can go on your own or with a guide, and it’s always free to get in.
There are a lot of interesting flower displays, and each one is more beautiful and colorful than the last.
There is an elevation grass collection, a cute gap garden, a fun wind garden, and an arboretum, among other beautiful displays.
There are also some unique features at the Durango Botanic Gardens. The literary garden is a great place to relax with a book, and the Art in the Gardens program lets people see local artists at work.
If you want to spend a few hours in Durango doing something fun, the Durango Botanic Gardens should be on your short list.
Address: Animas River Trail, 1900 E 3rd Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
3. General Palmer Hotel
If you want to stay somewhere great in Durango, you might want to think about the General Palmer Hotel.
The hotel is in the best spot in downtown Durango; many great restaurants, cool sights, and popular spots in the area are all within walking distance.
The fact that this hotel is right next to the train station is another great thing about it.
There are many beautiful Victorian-style rooms in the hotel itself.
The General Palmer Hotel has a lot of historic building and decor, but it’s still a modern, high-end hotel.
The hotel has rooms that are very nice and have a southwestern feel to them.
You can walk to many places in the area from the hotel, which doesn’t have a full-service restaurant but does serve breakfast every morning.
People from Durango love the General Palmer Hotel. It’s a great place to stay when you’re there.
Address: 567 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Stretching the more than 45 miles between Silverton and Durango in Colorado, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is an epic sight and attraction.
Operating out of the original 1882 train depot, this top 10 attraction not only offers a unique transportation activity but is also a great historical site.
Providing visitors with one of the most thrilling train rides, the tracks connecting the two cities are a narrow, 3-foot system that scales a beautiful mountainside.
If you’d like to enjoy this amazing attraction while you’re in town, your best option is the scenic round-trip train ride.
The ride travels through the magnificent San Juan Mountains and the Animas Canyon.
The 3 ½ hour-long ride allows you to unplug from your electronics, observe amazing natural sights, and bask in a leisurely tour of Durango’s surrounding area.
The steam-powered locomotive is a unique way to experience the Durango mountainside.
Address: Durango, CO, United States
5. Purgatory Ski Resort
There are a lot of cool things to do in Durango this weekend and today. One of the best is Purgatory Ski Resort.
During the winter, the resort is a great place to be on the hills.
The town gets about 300 inches of snow a year on average, thanks to glaciers that formed thousands of years ago.
Purgatory Ski Resort is a must-see. It has more than 1,600 acres of terrain, more than 100 trails, 11 lifts, a choice of terrain parks, and more.
When the weather is nice, Purgatory Ski Resort is one of the most beautiful places to visit.
The resort’s alpine slide and mountain train are very popular in the summer.
The lodge also has fun things to do like hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on Twilight Lake.
Purgatory Ski Resort is one of the best things to see in Durango, no matter what time of year you go.
6. Mesa Verde National Park
Address: Mesa Verde, CO, United States
7. The Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is a nearly 500-mile path that goes from Waterton Canyon in Colorado to Durango. It is one of the most amazing places to visit.
There are parts of the trail that are more than 13,000 feet above sea level, so there are many places along the system where you can enjoy stunning views.
The trail is a must-do if you want to be surrounded by the stunning beauty of Colorado.
The Colorado Trail is easy to get around on because it is made up of one continuous trail.
People can walk, ride bikes, and ride horses on the trail.
It goes next to five rivers and through several national forests and wilderness areas.
If you’re in Durango and want to do something fun and free, The Colorado Trail is a great choice.
Address: Durango, CO, United States
8. San Juan National Forest
One of the best things to do in Colorado is visiting the San Juan National Forest.
Spanning nearly many miles in the state’s western region, the forest is the perfect destination for adventure-seeking, nature lovers.
The forest consists of towering alpine peaks as well as desert mesas, and the San Juan National Forest has a unique ecosystem that sets the stage for year-round fun.
Speaking of fun, the San Juan National Forest sets the scene for exciting activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding.
During the summer months, there are loads of cool water activities, and in the winter, the forest gives way to several winter sports.
Finally, the San Juan National Forest is a great place to spend a few days camping too.
The park’s primitive, cabin, and RV campgrounds set the stage for outdoor learning, picnicking, and beyond.
With so many free things to do in one magnificent setting, visiting the San Juan National Forest is a no-brainer.
9. Animas River Trail
This 126-mile Animas River, which is set in the heart of Durango, Colorado has so many beautiful things to see.
A tributary of the San Juan River and part of the greater Colorado River system, the Animas River is surrounded by the beauty of nature.
The river runs adjacent to an awesome trail system that links downtown Durango to the northern and southern parts of the city.
The Animas River Trail is characterized by paved paths that are suitable for all skill levels.
It provides convenient access to parks, a public recreation center, a public library, and the downtown area.
The trail traverses through tunnels, under overpasses, and over bridges which makes for dynamic navigation.
A great place to explore and one of the coolest Durango attractions, the Animas River Trail is a must-do.
Address: Durango, CO, United States
10. D&SNG Museum
This museum pays homage to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
D&SNG Museum is loaded with amazing things to see concerning the history of the local locomotive industry.
In addition to railroading, the museum explores local transportation and mining as well.
The museum is a 12,000-square-foot mecca that was established in 1998.
Within the museum, there are very cool installations of artifacts, many of which have been donated by retired railroad workers.
The museum is also home to a large collection of railroad history books and rail cars.
One of the best tourist attractions for history buffs, the D&SNG Museum is a must-see.
Admission to the museum is free, so you’re encouraged to come back frequently.
Address: 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
11. Hogback Ridge Trail
This loop trail, set near beautiful Durango, Colorado, is a nearly 2-mile trail that’s suitable for both hikers and horses.
While horses and hikers are permitted on the trail, dogs and bicycles are not.
Situated on the western part of the Foothills Trail, the Hogback Ridge Trail is set amid scenic sights such as springs, a ponderosa pine savannah, and through the dregs of an infamous 1990 fire.
On average, the trail takes about an hour and a half to navigate.
It’s open year-round and is popular with both locals and visitors.
With each new season, the beautiful setting for the Hogback Ridge Trail changes.
It’s characterized by rolling mountains, lush open spaces, gorgeous trees, and colorful wildflowers.
One of the greatest points of interest near Durango, the Hogback Ridge Trail is highly recommended.
Address: CO, United States
12. Dalla Mountain Park
Surrounded by dense, lush forestry as well as incredible sandstone boulders, Dalla Mountain Park is a perfect place for exploring.
Those sandstone boulders, some measuring taller than some commercial buildings, are a great attraction, especially for climbers.
Established in 2005, Dalla Mountain Park comprises more than 175 acres rife with adventure-seeking opportunities.
The park has a great trail system that traverses rocky landscapes, miles of rolling hills, and several spurs connecting to climbing zones.
These trails are not for the faint of heart because of their technical terrain.
Of the many Durango attractions to choose from, Dalla Mountain Park should make your list.
Address: Durango, CO 81301, United States
13. Powerhouse Science Center
The Powerhouse Science Center is an interactive museum that’s one of the best things to do in Durango.
Established in 2011, the center is set in the city’s old power company building, thus its name.
Situated adjacent to the Animas River, the center’s building was once a coal-fired, steam power AC generating plant.
The Powerhouse Science Center is home to interesting exhibits, educational programs, and loads of hands-on activities.
Some of the many wonderful programs the center institutes include a LEGO League and Tiny Tuesdays (aimed at the center’s youngest visitors).
The Powerhouse Science Center’s exhibits delve into subjects such as the evolution of the guitar, life with wolves, the science of bicycles, and female inventors.
In addition to the awesome exhibits and cool programs, the center also hosts occasional special events.
Address: 1295 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81301, United States
14. Fish Hatchery & Wildlife Museum
If you’re looking for amazing Durango attractions, be sure to visit the Fish Hatchery & Wildlife Museum.
This state wildlife space is situated on 18 acres and sits at just over a 6,500-foot elevation.
The focal point of the hatchery is a coldwater stream that’s perfect for fishing so long as you have the necessary permits.
The fishery is known for raising several species of trout as well as kokanee salmon.
The state’s oldest fishery, it stocks more than 1.5 million catchable fish each year.
The museum, which opened in 2022, is small but mighty.
Its three rooms exhibit incredible taxidermy displays, mounted fish, fishing artifacts, and aquariums with fish you can feed during your visit.
The museum takes under an hour to navigate and is a great spot to visit with children.
Address: 151 E 16th St, Durango, CO 81301, United States
15. Strater Hotel
Known for its historical charm, incredible accommodations, and central loale, Strater Hotel is a must-do.
Throughout the hotel, shadow boxes depicting western and mining stories as well as unparalleled, original architecture, make this hotel a true showstopper.
As for the accommodations, guest rooms feature the perfect balance of historic charm and modern luxury.
The 88 rooms within the hotel feature Victorian furnishings and decor but with modern amenities such as flatscreen televisions, wi-fi, and more.
The hotel has three awesome restaurants serving lunch, dinner, and late-night entertainment.
Besides the excellent accommodations, Strater Hotel is one of the best Durango attractions in general.
Address: 699 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
16. James Ranch Market & Grill
Not only is James Ranch Market & Grill a farm-to-table establishment, but it prides itself on being a “table on a farm.”
An immersive food experience, James Ranch Market & Grill is one of the greatest restaurants around.
The grill’s menu is packed with selections crafted from the produce of the more-than-400-acre farm.
Flavorful beef, pasture-raised chickens, tender pork, and succulent vegetables all make their way from the farm to the grill.
The grill is open for indoor and outdoor seating and serves organic beer, wine, and cider all of which are locally produced.
Outdoor fireplaces, picture windows, and the surrounding red rock cliffs all add to the rustic charm of James Ranch Market & Grill.
Address: 33846 US-550, Durango, CO 81301, United States
17. Mountain Waters Rafting
If you’re looking for things to do in Durango that hones in on water activities, be sure to schedule an outing with Mountain Waters Rafting.
Whether you’re looking for a mellow, family-friendly excursion or a thrill-seeking, wild time, Mountain Waters Rafting has you covered.
Established in 1982, this company thrives on providing super fun, river experiences for all.
Their family rafting tours are some of the greatest in Colorado; they can navigate the Animas River or venture to Telluride and can be booked for quarter-day or full-day experiences.
In addition to all the water fun, Mountain Waters Rafting also does 4×4 tours, ziplining, and offers train packages too.
With so many exciting activities available in one enterprise, it’s no wonder Mountain Waters Rafting is such a popular attraction.
Address: 303 W College Dr, Durango, CO 81301, United States
18. Emerald Lake
This gorgeous alpine lake is set between two towering mountains in the Weminuche Wilderness of Durango, Colorado.
Situated just 10 miles from the Pine River Trailhead, Emerald Lake is a great setting for a day of outdoor adventure.
If you’re looking for fun and natural beauty during your visit to Durango, be sure to add this incredible attraction to your itinerary.
Some hikers even turn their visit to Emerald Lake into an overnight stay, camping along the trail.
During your hike of Emerald Lake, you’ll reach elevations of up to 2,000 feet and experience some truly inspiring sights.
Emerald Lake is best hiked during the spring and summer months and dogs are permitted on the trail.
Once you’ve reached the lake, you can enjoy swimming and non-motorized water sports.
Address: Colorado, United States
19. Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventures
If you’re looking for inherently Colorado things to do in Durango, be sure to book a tour with Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventures.
Providing two-hour guided tours of the San Juan Mountains, a tour with Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventures is the best way to see Colorado for its true beauty.
Zipping around on brand-new Polaris snowmobiles, you’ll ride in style.
A winter adventure like no other, Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventures are a must-do.
Exploring more than 55,000 acres of the untouched natural landscape, an Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventure traverses up to 12,000 feet up the mountain.
Tours are available for all snowmobiling skill levels and are guided by experts.
With 2- and 3-hour as well as full-day tours available, you can tailor your experience to your preferences.
Address: Molas Lake/Molas Trailhead Molas Pass, Silverton, CO 81433, United States
20. Pinkerton Hot Springs
Easy to find and situated just off the side of a road, the Pinkerton Hot Springs is an unassuming sight.
But get a little closer, and you’ll come face to face with this landmark of sorts.
When the resort burned down, it was left in disrepair for many years but was re-established as just the hot spring in 2001.
Today, visitors come from far and wide to experience the joy of Pinkerton Hot Springs.
Although the spring was originally surrounded by man-made cement steps, years of mineral deposits have made it falsely look like a natural rock structure.
Nevertheless, the Pinkerton Hot Springs is a great place to spend an hour soaking in this wonder of Colorado.
Address: 35554 Highway 550, Durango, CO 81301, United States
21. Ska Brewing
Ska Brewing is a super fun place to check out in Durango.
Brewing incredible craft beers since its establishment in 1995, it’s something of a local institution.
Brewing flagship and seasonal beers as well as unexpected blends, this place is a great choice for the beer lovers in your group.
The main attraction at Ska Brewing is the tasting room wherein you can sample all the tasty libations.
The beer menu is packed with housemade beer varieties, non-alcoholic selections, and hard seltzers.
In addition to the awesome drinks, Ska Brewing also has an onsite kitchen serving up casual fare with selections such as brick oven pizzas, wildly delicious sandwiches, salads, and kids’ options.
In addition to imbibing and chowing, be sure to check out Ska Brewing’s events calendar; there are always fun things going on.
Lastly, the swag store is a great place to pick up some apparel to commemorate your visit.
Address: 225 Girard St, Durango, CO 81303, United States
22. Soaring Tree Top Adventures
If you’re into thrill-seeking adventure, you’re guaranteed a fun time when you book with Soaring Tree Top Adventures.
Situated right in the heart of Durango, Soaring Tree Top Adventures is famed as the largest zipline course in the country.
This company offers a variety of tour options available for ages.
Set in the treetops of the gorgeous San Juan Mountains, Soaring Tree Top Adventures is both adventurous and scenic.
With super-long lines that weave in and out of more than 150 acres, Soaring Tree Top Adventures provides an unforgettable experience.
The remote part of the mountain from where the tours begin is only accessible by train, so every tour begins with a scenic train ride upon the D&SNG.
After traversing the canyon and arriving for your tour, the fun begins.
Each Soaring Tree Top Adventures tour is a whopping 5.5 hours in length; it’ll be a day you won’t soon forget.
Address: 964 Co Rd 200, Durango, CO 81301, United States
23. Animas Museum
If you’re looking for fun and educational things to enjoy while you’re in Durango, check out the Animas Museum.
Owned and operated by the local historical society, the museum is set in the 1904 Animas School Building; in addition to its incredible contents, the historical building is also fun to explore.
Preserving and sharing local history, the Animas Museum houses such artifacts as Durango yearbooks, a permanent exhibit depicting a 1905 classroom, and exhibits on law and disorder in the wild west.
Additionally, the museum has an extensive collection of digitized documents, Native American relics, and an interesting collection of artifacts yielded from local fires.
All tours of the Animas Museum are self-guided walking tours, and the museum is only open during short, selected hours midweek, so check out the schedule before your visit.
A fun and unique way to learn about Durango’s rich history, the Animas Museum is a nice way to spend an hour in town.
Address: 3065 W 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
24. Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company
This Durango institution is a small-batch chocolate maker that uses the finest ingredients and methods.
Established just over 10 years ago, Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company is a purveyor of delectable, chocolate confections that can be enjoyed at their onsite cafe or carried out.
Specializing in handcrafted bites, barks, and bars, Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company is the perfect Durango pitstop for the sweet tooth in your group.
Some of the company’s amazing bestsellers include an incredible 16-piece build-your-own truffle box, the River Bottom-Dark Chocolate Toffee, and the ever-so-unique milk chocolate-covered potato chips.
Besides their delightful confections, Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company is also known for its smelter hot chocolate and Desert Sun organic coffee.
Situated on the banks of the Animas River, the setting, which is depicted in all the company’s packaging, is just as inviting as the Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company.
There’s no place better to warm up after a cold day in the mountains than with a cup of hot chocolate.
Address: 920 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States
25. Durango Craft Spirits
Rangĭo Craft Spirits is a must-see because it is the city’s first grain-to-bottle brewery since Prohibition.
The downtown Durango distillery makes all three types of liquor by hand. They specialize in bourbon, vodka, and whiskey.
Any bottle made here is a great representation of Colorado’s nature and simplicity because it is made with only local materials.
All of the corn they use comes from the nearby Ute Mountains, and all of the grains come from a nearby malting company.
When you go to Durango Craft Spirits, you can either relax in the Tasting Room or take out some packaged goods.
If you want suggestions, the Cinder Dick Bourbon, the Mayday Moonshine, and the Soiled Doves Vodka are some of the distillery’s most famous drinks.
When you go to Durango Craft Spirits, you can learn all about the stories behind each name.
Address: 1120 Main Ave #2, Durango, CO 81301, United States
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26. Ore House
You have to go to this restaurant with an old-west theme when you’re in Durango.
Ore House is a great place to eat dinner because they serve fresh, eco-friendly foods and fish.
It has been around since 1972 and is popular with both locals and tourists. Ore House has a full bar, a cute wine cellar, and a menu full of tasty mountain-town food.
There are also a lot of local, sustainable ingredients on the menu that help the environment grow.
If you want to eat at Ore House, you should definitely make an appointment.
As soon as you get there, you should order the Alaskan King Crab Cake, hand-cut steaks, and the must-have sauces and sides.
Plan to drink a lot at Ore House because the wine and liquor list is out of this world.
Also, people who know about the place know to ask about the secret menu, which will keep the treats a secret.
You have to go to Ore House in Durango to fully understand how great it is, so make your plans as soon as possible.
Address: 147 E College Dr, Durango, CO 81301, United States
Start Planning Your Trip To Durango, CO
Without a doubt, Durango is one of the most incredible mountain towns in Colorado.
With tons of local charm, unique adventure opportunities, amazing restaurants, an inspirational art scene, history by the mile, and nature aplenty, it’s no wonder visitors flock from far and wide to Durango.