Durango is an epicenter for a great number of things: outdoor pursuits in the surrounding high desert and mountains, Native American history and Old West heritage, arts and culture, a historic steam train, superb dining and brew pubs and fresh food raised at high-elevation farms, just to name a few.
Although Durango is a relatively small town, it has many claims to fame, including “Mountain Bike Mecca,” “10 U.S. Cities Where the Weather is Perfect Year Round,” “100 Best Small Towns” and “Best Water Town in the West,” among others.
Aside from Durango’s largest attraction, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, here is just a sampling of what else you will find here:
Outdoor Pursuits: From kayaking to zip lining, hiking to rafting, Durango has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely bike ride or find out for yourself why Durango was named “One of the Best U.S. Cycling Towns,” you won’t be disappointed. Fish in the Gold-Medal waters of the Animas River, spend a day at nearby Vallecito Lake, take a Jeep tour, enjoy a horseback ride or experience the many summer activities at Purgatory Resort.
Culinary Treats: From down-to-earth eateries, cafes and brewpubs to award-winning fine dining, our culinary offerings reflect the richness, creativity and uniqueness of the Southwest. The quantity of independent restaurants, quality of ingredients and breadth of menu selections in this town boldly challenge the sophisticated culinary offerings of any metropolitan hub. In addition, with six breweries and two distilleries, Durango is one crafty little mountain town!
History: West of Durango, Mesa Verde Country is the archaeological center of America. Mesa Verde National Park, the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Hovenweep National Monument, the Anasazi Heritage Center and Crow Canyon Archaeological Center are all just a short drive away.
Arts & Culture: Durango has a thriving arts scene that touts both local and internationally renowned artists. A walk down historic Main Ave. reveals everything from small, local art cooperatives to galleries hosting works from world-famous artists. Durango boasts over a dozen galleries carrying treasures from American Indians, Contemporary Western and Southwestern works of museum-quality art represented with sculptures, pottery, paintings, jewelry, fine-art photography and more.
Durango hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. You will discover great food, wine and art festivals, plus events celebrating biking, rafting, snowfall and all things unique to Durango.
However you decide to spend your time in Durango, you will experience a vacation like no other! For more information, visit www.durango.org or stop in the Durango Welcome Center at 802 Main Avenue.
