9 Best Things To Do in Durango, Colorado
If you’re looking for things to do in Durango, Colorado, you’ve come to the right place.
For the last five years, my wife and I have been traveling the USA full time in our vintage Airstream. Of all the places we’ve visited, Durango is one of our absolute favorites.
It has great beer, ample hiking trails, nearby National Parks, and legal dispensaries.
Today we’re sharing the best of what’s around.
Let’s dive in!
Durango to Silverton by Train
Price: Starting at $69
Why You’ll Love It: There is no better way to see the Rocky Mountains than by an old steam train. The ride also comes with a commentary teaching you about the history and scenery. If you’re afraid of heights, this train ride might not be the right thing for you, as the adventure rides along the cliffs’ edge.
Address: 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A recent Google review says, “The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway was spectacular and lived up to the expectations we had of it. We rode the Knight Sky glass ceiling observation car which allowed us to take in all of the sights along the route for the Snowdown Balloon Rally Train Ride. Our car host for the trip was excellent and he made sure those riding were well taken care of. We would definitely recommend those looking to ride to do so and we will definitely seek to come back in the future.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.2/10
Walk the Animas River Trail
Price: Free
Why You’ll Love It: If you love the Rocky Mountains and hiking along rivers, you have to do this hike. The Animas River Trail is an 11-mile round trip trail that takes you through a canyon along the riverfront. In addition to hiking, you can also kayak, fish, or bike the trail.
This hike is listed as a moderate skill level.
Address: 369 W Park Ave, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A recent Alltrails review says, “Wow what a view when you ride this trail! We parked at a small lot off River Road and La Posta Road. Was wonderful!!!!!!!! Highly recommended!!!.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.4/10
Explore Mesa Verde National Park
Price: $30
Why You’ll Love It: If you love unique National Parks, this is an absolute must-visit. This Mesa Verde National Park protects the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people and their cliff dwellings. You will learn about the people that lived there and how they built the structures.
We recommend taking a guided tour.
Address: Moccasin Mesa Rd., Cortez, CO 81321
What’s the Word: A recent Google review says, “This has to be one of the coolest, most undiscovered national parks I have been too. The drive to the Mesa is absolutely gorgeous, and the history is equally fascinating and beautiful! Highly recommend a visit, even if you are just driving through. Plan on at least 3 to 4 hours for your visit, would be a really beautiful place to camp if the park is open. You will not regret the stop.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.8/10
Raft the Animas River
Price: Start at $39
Why You’ll Love It: Who doesn’t love rafting a fast-moving river with your favorite people? White water rafting in the Animas River also gives you views of the tall Rocky Mountains. Adrenaline rush junkies will love floating down the river.
Address: 50 Animas View Dr., Durango, Colorado 81301
What’s the Word: A recent review on Mild to Wild says, “I had a lot of fun. All the guides where a blast to be around. The overall rafting as a little cold because of the time of year, but I had a great time. The food was also very tasty.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 8.5/10
Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Price: Free
Why You’ll Love It: If you are looking for one of the most beautiful drives in America, you must drive the Million Dollar Highway. This is a 25-mile drive that goes into the mountains and past the winding edges of steep cliffs.
This road isn’t for the faint of heart but offers incredible views.
Keep in mind; you won’t want to tow an RV on this road if possible!
Address: US-550, Silverton, CO 81433, USA
What’s the Word: A recent review from TripAdvisor says, “scenic with multiple turnouts some beautiful waterfalls some near in some further away from the road.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.9/10
Grab a Beer at Steamworks Brewing Company
Price: Starting at $6
Why You’ll Love It: There is nothing better than getting a cold local beer after playing all day in the mountains. Steamworks Brewing Company is one of the best in the area for beer and food. The atmosphere is also very relaxed and provides a fun time out.
We recommend their Steam Engine Lager!
Address: 801 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A recent review from Google says, “The food was so great, we came for dinner two nights in a row!! My wife was crazy about her steak (smoked strip), and the beers were reasonably priced! Service was great.”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 7.9/10
A Glass of Wine at Four Leaves Winery
Price: Starting at $10
Why You’ll Love It: Who doesn’t love wine? Four Leaves Winery has a wine for everyone, whether you like red or white. The atmosphere is excellent, and you might even leave feeling good, from the friendly service, of course!
We recommend trying their Barbera.
Address: 528 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A review from Google says, “Great wine in a historic but relaxing atmosphere. Very friendly staff. This is a great place for novice and expert wine drinkers alike. Highly recommended!”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.3/10
Best Campground in Durango: Lightner Creek Campground
Price: Starting at $48 a night
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re looking for a campground that has tent spots, RV spots, or cabins, this is your perfect spot. There are trees, mountain views, and a creek running through. Lightner Creek Campground is the ideal getaway, and there’s even a heated pool.
If you’re looking for more camping options, here are the best campgrounds in Durango, Colorado.
Address: 1567 Co Rd 207, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A review from Google says, “Gorgeous campground with Lightner Creek running through the middle of the park. Listened to the water running by all night!”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 8.9/10
Best Hotel in Durango: Strater Hotel
Price: Starting at $156
Why You’ll Love It: If you like staying at places with history and class, this is the hotel for you. The Strater Hotel is beautifully decorated to take you back in time. There is also excellent service and great food in the restaurant.
Address: 699 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
What’s the Word: A recent review on Google says, “Absolutely gorgeous hotel! Love the history and decor. We had a great time on our 2 night stay. Location is perfect and the food at the restaurants was great!”
Durango Colorado Vibe Score: 9.4/10
When Searching for Things To Do in Durango, Don’t Forget Nearby Towns, Too
Colorado is full of amazing towns. If you’re up for a day trip, head over to Pagosa Springs to soak in the natural hot springs.
Denverly, a popular Denver Blog, listed Pagosa Hot Springs as one of the best in the state!
You can also take a day trip to Telluride. It’s an idyllic mountain community with lots of class.
Discover the Best Free Camping in America
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below:
Corey
Friday 21st of August 2020
Next time y'all are in town, come try a beer at Durango Beer and Ice Company.