Exploring Durango, CO
Updated March 22, 2024
Time needed in this town/city: 2 nights
Durango is one of those movie-quality towns that everyone is just drawn to. With its rich history and easy drive from Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, it’s no wonder why people love to come to this little town any time of year.
The below information is a complete guide of the best places to stay, the top rated places to dine and drink, and all there is to see and do. We’ve also included a summary of the history of this little town!
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Where to Stay
Where to Dine & Drink
636 Main Ave
From their site, “Our restaurant gives downtown Durango a personally crafted bistro style menu that includes steaks, seafood, gluten free options, decadent house-made desserts, daily specials, and local favorites.”
Derailed Pour House
Dating back to the 1890s, it’s an old-fashioned tavern with a mahogany bar, fireplace, and patio seating, offering American fare.
Eolus Bar & Dining
Relaxed restaurant & bar serving sushi, New American fare & cocktails in a brick-walled space.
Primus Restaurant
Relaxed restaurant with exposed-brick walls & a warm ambiance specializing in seafood & game.
The Bookcase and Barber (Speakeasy)
A speakeasy in the back room of a barber shop.
The Harvest Grill & Greens
They serve delicious, organic food harvested mostly from their ranch. The menu features fabulous hamburgers, steak sandwiches, gourmet cheese melts, fresh salads, and more made from their ranch's meats, cheeses, vegetables, and other organic ingredients.
The Mahogany Grille at the Strater Hotel
Old West-styled restaurant inside the Strater Hotel offering period-inspired American fare.
The Sow’s Ear
Warm, convivial yarn & knitting shop/cafe offering coffee, tea, breakfast & sandwiches.
Things to See & Do
Downtown Durango
Downtown Durango and the North Main District are home to dozens of entrepreneurial and innovative shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment options. Take a stroll down Historic Main Avenue and savor the view of the mountains while feeling the heritage still alive in the historic buildings.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
For 140 years, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been transporting passengers through the remote, scenic wilderness and high mountain landscape of the San Juan National Forest.
A National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular heritage railroads in North America, this train offers a unique travel experience that combines Colorado’s colorful pioneering and mining histories with unparalleled backcountry beauty.
In Durango, head to the 12,000 square foot facility, situated in the rail yard that houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that paint a picture of Colorado’s rich railroading and mining histories. Even more interesting, the D&SNGRR museum is located in one part of the roundhouse - the only one of its kind in the world to house narrow gauge steam locomotives. The museum is open every day the train runs.
Pinkerton Hot Springs
The Pinkerton Hot Springs was discovered by James Pinkerton in the 1800s who decided to transform this mysterious gem into a travel destination. People almost immediately began to flock to this spot, as this was a time when many believed that hot springs were a miracle cure and their waters possessed healing powers. Pinkerton built a resort here, complete with a swimming pool filled with water from the springs. Although it’s rumored that Marilyn Monroe stayed here at one time, the resort ultimately burned down. Its remains served as a speakeasy in the 1920s, and today, the Colorado Timberline Academy sits on the land. People still stop by during their Colorado travels to witness this strange and unique bit of this state’s history.
A History Summary
1880 - 1881 - The town was organized by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad as part of their efforts to reach Silverton, Colorado, and service the San Juan mining district. The city was named by ex-Colorado Governor Alexander C. Hunt, after Durango, Mexico, based on his favorable impression of that city.
1885 - Durango's business district had seven hotels and restaurants, 11 saloons, dancehalls, and stores, two bakeries, blacksmith shops, and a variety of other businesses.
1951 - The Rio Grande Southern lost its contract to transport mail and suspended operations. However, they recognized the tourist potential to carry visitors, including Hollywood elite, to and from Silverton.
1968 - 1981 - The tracks from Durango east to Chama, New Mexico, and south to Farmington, New Mexico were removed, but the Silverton Branch remained in operation until 1981 when it was sold and became the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Today - It is predominately a vacation town with many people owning second homes in the area.