Durango Activities
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train
Durango, Colorado was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in 1879. The railroad arrived in Durango on August 5, 1881 and construction on the line to Silverton began in the fall of the same year. By July of 1882, the tracks to Silverton were completed, and the train began hauling both freight and passengers.
The line was constructed to haul silver & gold ore from Southwest Colorado's San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realized it was the view that was truly precious.
This historic train has been in continuous operation between Durango and Silverton since 1882, carrying passengers behind vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock indigenous to the line. It is a family-friendly ride sure to create memories that will last a lifetime while offering a view of Colorado's mountain splendor inaccessible by highway. Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear for a spectacular journey on board the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Historic Downtown Durango
Where Old West meets Southwest, Downtown Durango is a Nationally Registered Historic District and home to historic boutique hotels, award winning restaurants, laid-back brewpubs, and fabulous art galleries, museums, and shops.
Dalton Ranch Golf Course
Dalton Ranch is situated in the magnificent Animas valley enclosed in the towering red cliffs of the San Juan mountains, the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Dalton Ranch has over 270 acres with the Animas river winding through. Elk still enjoy the valley and can still be seen from time to time.
Originally owned by Dalton Land & Cattle Co. local rumors point to the infamous Dalton Gang having purchased the property on one of their many excursions from the California coast to the Mid-west.
Mesa Verde
Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906 to preserve and interpret the archeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years, from 600 to 1300 CE. Today, the park protects nearly 5,000 known archeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. These sites are some of the most notable and best preserved in the United States.
Purgatory Resort
A unique blend of steep tree skiing trails and wide-open cruisers with stunning views. Located In the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado.
El Moro Tavern
El Moro lays claim as the site of “Durango’s Strangest Shootout.” In January in 1906, Sheriff William Thompson raided the saloon in the midst of a poker game and hastily covered then confiscated a roulette wheel that was also in play. On the sidewalk in front of El Moro, Thompson confronted the city marshal, Jesse Stansel, for his lack of enforcement. The two men exchanged insults and guns were drawn. When the smoke cleared Sheriff Thompson was dead and Marshal Stansel was injured. At Stansel’s court trial, eyewitnesses gave conflicting reports of who drew and who fired first and whether or not drinking was involved. The marshal was acquitted.
Carver Brewing Company
Local brewery and restaurant great for a casual laid back experience with a great atmosphere.
East by Southwest
Welcome to East by Southwest, Durango’s dining destination, serving a fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and ingredients combined with contemporary cooking methods & technique as created by Chef Sergio Verduzco. Our cuisine features imaginative cutting edge sushi & sashimi crafted with the best fresh fish and seafood available from sustainable sources. We also offer tender succulent American Kobe, Black Angus beef & organic poultry, including a wide array of delicious vegetarian and wheat free dishes.
Steamworks Brewing Company
Healthy salads, delicious pizzas, spicy Southwestern-style dishes, and vegetarian & gluten-free offerings provide something for everyone who’s hungry. Stop by to discover what’s “on tap.” Hang with the locals. Catch a game. Enjoy a fresh beer and outstanding food. Every day promises a screaming deal and fun to be had!