Durango offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From riding the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to exploring ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park, visitors will find a wide variety of attractions that showcase the culture, landscapes, and heritage of Southwest Colorado.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the most famous attractions in Colorado and a must-experience for visitors. The historic train began operating in 1882 to transport silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains to Durango. Today, it carries passengers through the dramatic Animas River canyon on a spectacular journey between Durango and the historic mining town of Silverton.
Passengers travel in restored railcars pulled by historic steam locomotives while enjoying views of forests, cliffs, and alpine wilderness that can’t be reached by road. Seasonal trips include winter rides, fall foliage excursions, and special themed events.
Highlights
Historic steam-powered locomotives
Scenic ride through the Animas River canyon
Stops in the historic mining town of Silverton
Special seasonal rides and events
Located inside the historic Durango train depot, the Railroad Museum showcases the fascinating history of rail travel and mining in the San Juan Mountains. Visitors can explore restored locomotives, historic railcars, and artifacts that highlight how the railroad helped shape Durango’s growth as a mining and transportation hub.
Interactive displays and exhibits help bring the region’s railroad history to life, making this a fun stop for families and history enthusiasts.
Highlights
Historic locomotives and railcars
Mining and railroad history exhibits
Located in the original Durango depot
Family-friendly and educational
Located about 25 miles north of Durango, Purgatory Resort is a year-round mountain playground. In winter, the resort offers skiing and snowboarding across hundreds of acres of terrain with breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.
In summer, the resort transforms into a hub for outdoor adventure featuring mountain biking trails, scenic chairlift rides, hiking, alpine slides, and family adventure parks.
Highlights
Skiing and snowboarding in winter
Mountain biking and hiking in summer
Scenic lift rides and alpine coaster
Events in the mountain village
About 45 minutes west of Durango, Mesa Verde National Park protects one of the most important archaeological sites in North America. The park preserves thousands of ancient structures built by the Ancestral Pueblo people, including remarkable cliff dwellings carved into sandstone cliffs.
The park contains nearly 5,000 archaeological sites and more than 600 cliff dwellings, making it one of the best places in the world to learn about the culture and architecture of the ancient Puebloan people.
Visitors can take ranger-guided tours of famous sites like Cliff Palace, drive scenic routes through the park, and explore museums that tell the story of the people who lived here for centuries.
Visitors can explore famous sites such as:
Tour Options
Learn more about Mesa Verde HERE.
The Animas Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of Durango and La Plata County. The museum is located in the historic 1904 Animas City School building, which has been transformed into a local history museum.
Operated by the La Plata County Historical Society, the museum features exhibits about early settlers, mining history, ranching culture, and the development of Durango and surrounding communities.
Visitors can explore artifacts, historic photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the region from ancient Indigenous cultures through the mining era and into modern times.
Durango’s rich mining and railroad history can still be experienced today through two of the city’s most iconic historic hotels — the Strater Hotel and the General Palmer Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Durango, these beautifully preserved landmarks offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s Old West heritage.
Built in 1887, the Strater Hotel is a Victorian masterpiece known for its ornate woodwork, period décor, and impressive collection of antique walnut furniture. Visitors can step inside to experience the historic Diamond Belle Saloon, enjoy live ragtime music, or simply admire the elegant architecture that reflects Durango’s boomtown era.
Just a few blocks away, the General Palmer Hotel carries the legacy of William Jackson Palmer, founder of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and a key figure in the development of Durango’s railroad industry. The hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort while celebrating the region’s railroad roots through its design and atmosphere.
Together, these historic hotels offer visitors a chance to experience Durango’s past while enjoying some of the city’s most memorable architecture, dining, and hospitality.
The Bar D Chuckwagon offers a classic Old West evening experience. Guests enjoy a hearty cowboy-style dinner followed by a lively Western music and comedy show performed by the Bar D Wranglers.
Before dinner, visitors can explore small shops, enjoy family activities like roping and horseshoes, and soak in the rustic ranch atmosphere.
Just north of Durango, Honeyville is a fun stop for visitors looking to sample locally produced honey and gourmet products. The shop offers free tastings of many unique honey flavors, from cinnamon and raspberry to jalapeño and lavender.
The Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa offers a relaxing retreat just north of town. The facility features dozens of mineral soaking pools of varying temperatures surrounded by mountain views.
Guests can unwind in naturally heated mineral water, enjoy spa treatments, and relax in beautifully landscaped soaking areas.
Beyond major attractions and historic landmarks, Durango offers several experiences that capture the spirit of the region. From scenic trails and local history to hands-on family activities, these stops give visitors a chance to explore Durango like a local.
Stretching for miles along the Animas River, this scenic paved trail is perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the views. The trail connects parks, open spaces, and downtown Durango, making it an easy and beautiful way to explore the city. Animas River Trail Maps are available at the Durango Welcome Center at 802 Main Avenue or ask a Downtown Ambassador.
Located just outside downtown, the fish hatchery is a great stop for families and nature lovers. Visitors can see trout being raised in the hatchery ponds, learn about Colorado’s fish populations, and explore small exhibits inside the wildlife museum.
Located along the Animas River in a historic former power plant, the Powerhouse Science Center is an interactive museum that blends science, technology, and hands-on learning. Families can explore engaging exhibits on energy, engineering, space, and robotics while kids experiment with interactive displays and creative learning stations. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits, educational programs, and seasonal events, making it a fun and educational stop for visitors of all ages.
Step into Durango’s mining history with a hands-on treasure panning experience. Visitors can sift through sand and gravel to discover gemstones and minerals while learning about the region’s historic mining heritage. It’s a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Mining adventure options can be found at Durango Treasures in Downtown Durango and at Purgatory Resort during their summer season.
Durango’s historic downtown is filled with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, locally owned shops, restaurants, galleries, and historic saloons. Strolling Main Avenue offers visitors a chance to experience the character and charm of this vibrant mountain town. Learn more about Durango HERE.
Durango offers an incredible mix of history, culture, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly experiences that make it a memorable destination year-round. Whether you're riding a historic train through the San Juan Mountains, exploring ancient cliff dwellings, relaxing in natural hot springs, or strolling through historic downtown, there is always something new to discover. For more information on attractions, events, and local recommendations, be sure to stop by the Durango Welcome Center, where friendly staff can help you plan the perfect Durango adventure.