20 Unique Things To Do In Durango, Colorado

1. Take A Scenic Gondola Ride At Purgatory Resort

Among the top things to do in Durango Colorado, is taking a scenic gondola ride at Purgatory Resort. This adventure shows magnificent 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains that reveal this area's stark beautiful features alongside its varying seasonal colors.

Regardless of the season you choose to visit; this gondola ride allows an individual to enjoy some peace and an idyllic setting as you take in the mountain scenery surrounding it all with your eyes.

In the summertime, expect to float above thick green woodlands together with meadows that are blooming with wildflowers; meanwhile, during winter one might see snow-covered sceneries.

2. Attend The Durango Farmers Market

The Durango Farmers Market is a lively and scenic gathering spot located in the beautiful San Juan Mountains. This market, which is situated on the Purgatory Resort mountain backdrop, displays an array of freshly harvested farm items.

If you want to taste the fresh flavors of the area, it is an excellent stopover before heading back home after you visit the mountains. Be you from Durango or just passing through, this Farmers Market serves as an excellent place for exploring rich agricultural traditions while supporting local businesses.

3. Visit The Durango Ice Arena

The Durango Ice Arena is one of the most popular places in Durango Colorado USA for enjoying and having fun. Different activities at this indoor ice skating facility are available for various ages and skills such as public skating sessions, hockey, and figure skating.

It is a good place for families, groups, or even single individuals who want to have some time on the ice because of the well-maintained ice as well as its friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, the arena is a community center that also has special events, skating lessons, and youth hockey leagues.

4. Browse The Durango Public Library

The library of Durango is not simply a borrowing house for books - they have a wide variety of things going on there and so this place is where people from around Colorado come together. Situated near Animas River, this library offers an atmosphere conducive to reading and relaxation with amazing sights of the surrounding hills.

A broad spectrum of activities is available for guests including talks by authors, lectures as well as programs aimed at young ones.

Apart from that it also incorporates a comfortable eating place, outdoor sitting spots, and many more materials targeted at both residents and tourists who would want to gain an insight into the historical background of their surroundings.

5. Discover Camping Adventures In Durango

Durango, Colorado is the ultimate destination for camping within the San Juan Mountains. There are so many options when it comes to Durango Colorado camping; they range from pitching tents beside alpine lakes that are calm throughout the night, camping out in a verdant section of the San Juan National Forest, or even parking RVs close to the beautiful Animas River.

During the day you may engage in hiking, fishing, or mountain biking and at night time have a good rest beneath countless stars. In addition to this, several historic sites, hot springs, and a lively downtown area have made it possible to combine pleasure and adventure.

6. Stroll Through La Plata County Fairgrounds and Event Center

Durango, Colorado's La Plata County Fairgrounds and Event Center is lively for social activities and leisure events. Throughout the year, various activities take place in this venue ranging from the county fair which is held every year to rodeos, concerts, and local markets.

Family-friendly entertainment can be enjoyed by tourists who visit this area while those interested in regional agriculture, arts, and crafts can check out exhibitions or participate in community meetings. Locals and tourists can benefit from the fairground's large private event spaces that make it an all-purpose site.

7. Visit The Durango Plaza

Durango Plaza is a lively intersection and an essential stop for every tourist visiting the place. Historic structures, attractive boutiques, amazing shops, and countless food outlets border the plaza.

The area serves as an appropriate position to unwind, look at local art displays, or partake in one of the numerous annual activities or concerts. Durango Plaza is a major attraction in downtown Durango whether you want to experience local culture, shop around, or just relax amidst a beautiful environment.

8. Relax At Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa is the perfect escape into the natural beauty of Durango, Colorado. There are 30 pools filled with minerals that promote body wellness, you can also enjoy cold plunge, sauna, and wellness classes.

This complex has an array of services such as massage therapies and other soothing soaks. It is recommended to spend all moments here to take time at least once every year to rejuvenate body and soul. In these hot springs, we find a rare blend of relaxation with the natural gift of beauty.

9. Journey Through Durango Fish Hatchery

A unique educational experience for all ages is provided by the Durango Fish Hatchery situated in Durango, Colorado. In 1881 it was established and is one of the oldest hatcheries in the state.

This facility helps in rearing and distributing various trout species to the rivers and lakes of Colorado. Here, visitors can go on a tour around the facility while observing fish at various developmental stages before being informed about how hatcheries contribute to sustaining healthy fish populations.

The hatchery additionally has a modest museum with exhibits on local aquatic life and fishing history.

10. Stroll Through Durango Botanic Garden

The Durango Botanic Garden is a hidden gem in Durango, Colorado. It is along the beautiful Animas River that these gardens exhibit different kinds of local plants and drought-resistant ones that have been artistically placed to enhance the uniqueness of this region's vegetation.

Themed and environmentally conscious areas such as the Xeric Garden, Crevice Garden, and Literary Garden offer tranquillity to visitors who may need it or serve as inspiration for those in need of new ideas for their own gardens. Consequently, visiting the Durango Botanic Gardens makes it an enjoyable and educative stop while at Durango.

11. Explore The Durango River Trail

The Durango River Trail, in Durango, Colorado, is a path that offers much variety of activities as it meanders alongside the Animas River. Walking, jogging, biking or even fishing are just some of the things you can do here with several benches placed at intervals where visitors can stop off and take pleasure in the beauty of the river.

In your stroll down this pathway, you will encounter scenic parks like Rotary Park and Schneider Park as well as enjoy spectacular views of the mountains surrounding it. Moreover, since it's close to downtown Durango this makes it easy to access for families, lovers of outdoor activities, or anyone who wants to go out and explore nature's wonders.

12. Delight In The Night Sky

Incredible is what it truly means for you to behold the Delight in the Night Sky at Durango, Colorado. It is an ideal destination for stargazing because of its clear and dark skies which are considered to be some of the highest points in the San Juan Mountains.

You will certainly be entranced by the splendor of the Milky Way, remote planets, and innumerable stars if you happen to go for an astronomy event near a town, embark on a guided night hike, or simply lounge at one of the campgrounds nearby.

It completely brings you down to earth as it makes you feel small amidst such a vast universe.

13. Drive The Million Dollar Highway

While you are inside Durango Co it is really a must to drive along the Million Dollar Highway. This remarkable section of U.S. Route 550 winds through the San Juan mountains displaying breathtaking views of stark peaks, deep gorges, and stunning alpine environments.

It is a maximum of 25 miles between Durango and Silverton; however, this route offers some of the most beautiful scenery and thrilling drives in all of America because it has so many sharp turns, high cliffs, and open views.

On this road, you will encounter numberless ghost towns from the mining era, deep woods, and a variety of places for outdoor pursuits such as trekking or snapping photos.

14. Tour Lower Cascade Creek Falls

In Colorado, Durango is home to the Lower Cascade Creek Falls which portrays magnificent waterfalls most suited for outdoor fanatics. It has cascading torrents that go down into a lovely pool encircled by green vegetation and rising rocks presenting an area of calm.

To get to the waterfalls, one can undertake a fair hike with numerous stunning wooded sections, in this way, a nature lover's joy is indelible. Hence, it makes sense why this place is often chosen for soothing picnic spots; photography sessions or just appreciating peacefulness within Colorado wilderness areas.

15. Ride Through The Trails At Purgatory Bike Park

Purgatory Bike Park is one of the best things to do in Durango CO and an outstanding location for mountain biking aficionados. There are plenty of trails that range from thrilling descents to scenic rides and challenging terrains within its 400 miles catering to all skill levels.

There are many lift-serviced access trails; meaning you can ride all day long while enjoying an adventure filled with fun. Durango weather is mild and sunny as during summer, temperatures range between the mid-70s and mid-80s which makes it favorable for outdoor activities.

16. Shop The Historic Downtown Durango

Historically significant Durango downtown is located at the core of Durango, Colorado, and has allures including ancient buildings, colorful shops, art galleries, Durango hotels, cafeterias, and so on. When you go along Main Avenue, you will feel like you are back in time due to preserved structures and a lively place.

Make sure you take a train on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad waiting for you at the city center terminal that will take you through the San Juan Mountains sceneries. All time around the year there is something for everyone who visits Downtown Durango.

17. Go Ziplining

Duration of Colorado-based zip lining is a thrilling way to see the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains. While soaring high above the tree tops you are treated to classic views of adjacent forests, valleys, and peaks.

Zip lines in Durango are for all players, ranging from novice to expert jumper, which means everyone can be involved. With professionals leading them, you will be able to enjoy this place’s beautiful landscape.

18. Experience The Durango Train Ride

In Durango Colorado, The Durango Train Ride is a must-do adventure. This historical steam locomotive trip on the train which is also popularly called Durango & Silverton Antique Gauge takes you through the scenic and soothing San Juan Mountains.

Since 1882, this Durango train ride has been transporting people who want to see the Wild West again; therefore, it serves as an essential hub for tourists like beautiful nature lovers or those who visit with children.

Traveling from Durango to Silverton which used to be a booming mining town offers chances of spotting animals and imparting beautiful pictures thereby being part of the region's history.

19. Go Paddleboarding On The Animas River

In addition to being an Adventure, paddle boarding in Animas River is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Durango, Colorado. From the San Juan Mountain range and vegetation-laden shorelines, you see wonderful mountains while paddling through its calm currents.

The Animas River has sections with tranquil waters for casual exploration as well as areas with gentle rapids ideal for thrill-seekers. Whether you want to have a relaxing time gliding silently or need a workout experience that makes use of all your muscles, paddleboarding at the Animas River is the perfect way to find peace with nature.

20. Visit The Durango Cowboy Gathering

As one of the most popular annual events in the American West, the Durango Gathering is held in Durango, Colorado to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of cowboys. A multitude of activities, such as cowboy poetry readings, music performances, and western swing dance contribute to the excitement of this multi-day festival which is conducted every fall.

As attendees move through the gathering they are treated to storytelling, art exhibitions, and a lively parade displaying old-time Western outfits and horse riding. Those who seek a medley of the distinctiveness of Durango's history combined with music and communal spirit find that they mustn't miss out on this visit.