20+ Best Things To Do In Durango, Colorado This Summer
Durango, Colorado is a beautiful mountain town in Southwest Colorado full of rich history and charm with so many things to see and do! Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Durango has so much to offer when it comes to outdoor activities and family fun.
If you are looking for some great things to do with your family in Durango, then you have come to the right place! Here’s a list of 20+ things to do in Durango Colorado that will appeal to everyone in your family no matter what their interests may be!
First of All, Where exactly is Durango, Colorado?
Sitting at 6,522 ft, Durango is located in southwest Colorado, north of the Four Corners, and provides a perfect destination for people who want to explore the outdoors. The city also has plenty more to offer than just natural beauty; it’s home to many historic sites that not only offer a glimpse into the region’s past but also serves as an educational opportunity for visitors of all ages!
Durango is a picturesque town in Colorado that was founded in 1880 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and it still has a lot of old-town charm. Durango is not only home to natural beauty but also some interesting history!
Things to Do in Durango (by a local)
Durango has so many fun activities to do on a family vacation – it’s hard to know where to start when planning this year’s vacation to Colorado. Luckily, after living in Durango for 5 years, I have compiled an extensive list of locals’ favorite things to do that should give even seasoned residents something new they’ve never tried before. Check out these 20 activities that are sure to help you have a great time with the entire family!
1. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train Rides
- Location: 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
- Train Schedule:
- Steam Excursions — 5/7/22-10/29/22
- Hours — Departs at 9:00 am
- Diesel Excursions— 5/21/22-10/15/22
- Hours: departs at 8:15 am
- Cost: Check website for pricing details
Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train! The railroad will take you through from historic downtown Durango to beautiful, high mountain scenery all the way to Silverton with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Plus, you get to spend 2 hours in the historic mining town of Silverton providing visitors with a unique perspective on the town’s history and scenery and the opportunity to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge railroad offers a great way to experience Colorado’s spectacular natural beauty as it takes riders on a 3 ½ hour historic journey into the mountainside terrain. A round trip from Durango to Silverton runs every day from May to Oct. Reserve your train tickets today!
Which side of the Durango train is best?
Make sure you get a seat on the right side of the train when traveling from Durango to Silverton. That way, your scenic views will be much better.
2. Visit the Ancient Ruins at Mesa Verde National Park
- Location: Headquarters Loop Road
Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330 - Park Entrance Fee:
- Nov-April: $20
- May-Oct: $30
- FREE with America the Beautiful Pass
Take a trip to Mesa Verde National Park for an unforgettable Colorado cliff-dwelling experience. Located in the southwestern corner of Colorado, just 35 miles from Durango, Mesa Verde National Park is home to one of the most well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites that date back over 700 years. It’s one of America’s most significant archaeological treasures with over 600 prehistoric cliff dwellings built into its steep canyon walls that visitors can explore at their leisure! We love using Viator for booking guided tours – Book a half-day tour at Mesa Verde National Park.
Can you tour Mesa Verde on your own?
The Mesa Verde National Park is the perfect place to explore the amazing cliff dwelling on your own. Self-guided tours are offered, so you can visit what interests you most without feeling rushed.
3. White Water Rafting Down The Animas River
- Location: 50 Animas View Dr, Durango, CO 81301
- Cost: $90 when you book here
Splash down the Animas River on a guided whitewater rafting trip. If you’re looking to make some great memories, but don’t want anything too extreme this summer, then a guided whitewater rafting trip is your answer. Book a half-day family rafting trip all throughout May and June with their expert team members that are experienced in taking out families of any age or skill level.
From getting charged by big rapids at one point on the river to relaxing leisurely through gentle water currents as you experience nature up close – there’s something here for everyone who wants an exhilarating river rafting adventure without going completely wild.
4. Spend the day exploring downtown Durango’s historic district
- Location: 699 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
Looking for things to do in downtown Durango? The best way to be sure you’re having a great time in downtown Durango is by taking advantage of the many things that are happening all year round. With everything from art exhibits and live music performances to foodie features, and with over 200 unique shops and restaurants, there is never a dull moment exploring downtown Durango.
- Visit the Historic Strater Hotel: After spending the day exploring Durango’s historic downtown, come back to your room at The Strater Hotel and relax. Built in 1887 by two local cattle ranchers as a hunting lodge for their guests, it became one of Colorado’s most iconic hotels thanks to its location overlooking Main Avenue.
- Durango Arts Center: The Durango Arts Center is a great place to see some of the best art in town. With new pieces constantly being installed, you’ll never get bored! For all different tastes and styles there’s something for everyone here at the center.
5. Experience A Durango Zipline Tour
- Location: 20673 US-160, Durango, CO 81301
- Cost: Tours start at $129/person
Durango Zipline is the perfect way for thrill-seekers to get an adrenaline rush! With a course that soars unpredictable terrain through trees with scenic views, you’ll never know what to expect!
Experience the thrills of 12 ziplines, including Durangos longest and fastest! You’ll also get to hike up a beautiful mountainside with stunning views. This tour includes your choice between either landing on a rooftop patio or jumping off of an extreme tower! For two hours you will zipline through ponderosa pines, and balance yourself across rope bridges while enjoying tasty snacks and refreshing water. For more information about ziplining in Durango, click here!
6. Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa
- Location: 6475 Co Rd 203, Durango, CO 81301
- Hours: 7 days / week 9am – 10pm
- Cost: $29 Adults / $15 Child (reservations required)
Durango Hot Springs & Spa, formerly known as Trimble Hot Springs, is a 20-minute drive from downtown Durango that offers an oasis in the southwest corner of Colorado’s rugged mountain country. The mineral water here has been infused with oxygen bubbles to increase its purity and healing properties, making this one-of-a-kind natural hot tub experience unlike any other. Call for reservations, to this hot springs spa.
7. Purgatory Colorado Alpine Slide
- Location: 1 Skier Pl, Durango, CO 81301
- Cost: $17 Adults / $7 Child
- Hours: June 18 – August 14
The Purgatory Alpine Slide is one of the most popular things to do around Purgatory, Colorado. It’s a large ski resort with a half mile alpine slide which provides an exhilarating ride down the mountain side on a sled! Every family should experience this exhilarating activity that will keep everyone entertained all day long!
The Alpine Slide is an exhilarating ride, perfect for thrill seekers of all ages. But if you are under 3 years old or don’t meet the height requirements of 36” tall, you wont be able to ride alone. Riders must also wear closed-toe shoes and stay within a weight limit of 300 lbs. For tickets to the alpine slide, click here.
You can get single-ride tickets to go down the mountain on a sled during regular season (June 18 to early August 14) at prices starting with $17 if you’re taller than 48 inches and going for $7 if shorter.
8. Take a Hike in Durango Colorado
If you are looking for something free to do in Durango that gets your heart pumping while exploring Colorado‘s natural beauty, check out one of these amazing hikes in the area. You’ll find great scenery, rugged terrain, and plenty of different hiking trails to try out!
Best Hikes in Durango
Animas City Mountain: Located on the edge of town, Animas City Mountain Trail offers spectacular views of the city and valley. The trail begins with rather steep switchbacks but flattens out a bit after the first half-mile. It is an easy-to-moderate hike that is perfect for all levels! After gaining 1,500 feet in elevation, hikers are greeted by breathtaking views once they reach the plateau – La Plata Mountains.
Hogsback: The west side of town is where you go to see Durango in all its beauty. The hike up the ridge will be short and steep, but if you’re feeling really adventurous, make sure that at sunset when it’s beautifully golden! (me hiking Hogsback Mountain at sunset pictured above).
Best Hikes Near Durango
Engineer Mountain via Coal Bank Pass: Engineer Mountain is one of the most popular and well-known day hikes near Durango located on highway 550 on Coal Bank Pass. The hike is approximately 6 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of about 2,300 feet and involves some steep scrambling to reach the summit.
Mount Sneffels Via Yankee Boy Basin: At 14,158 feet, Mount Sneffels is a towering peak that stands out from the rest of Colorado’s San Juan mountain range. It often has been deemed as one of Colorado’s most beautiful and best-kept mountains due to its majestic beauty, and breathtaking views (me hiking mt. Sneffels in 2016 pictured above).
9. Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Visitors looking to enjoy a scenic drive should hit the Million Dollar Highway. The road is 25 miles long and it follows alongside scenic canyons, streams, waterfalls and winding roads.
The Million Dollar Highway is a trip that you simply have to take in order to experience the stunning beauty of this drive through jaw-dropping high mountain passes with cliffs soaring above your head on either side.
10. Take home some locally grown food from the Farmer’s Market
- Location: 2500 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
- Hours: Saturdays 8 am – 12 pm
Get your hands on some fresh, locally grown food! The Durango Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm. People come and shop for their weekly produce, bread, honey, and more from talented local farmers, artists and craftspeople throughout the summer months. You won’t want to miss this seasonal treasure when you visit Durango.
11. Bike the Animas River Trail
If you bring your bikes along with you on your family vacation, this is a great activity to do with kids, that is free! The Animas River Trail is a pedestrian/bicycle pathway that follows the course of the Animas River, making this an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature and discover Durango’s natural beauty. Touring by bike is a great way to explore the town, and you can easily take your family along for the ride as well!
Download the Free Animas River Trail Map
How long is the River Trail in Durango?
The concrete/asphalt trail offers a beautiful scenic ride through town for 7 miles with easy access to all the wonderful features Durango has to offer. Along your journey, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy Buckley Park, The Durango Botanic Garden, as well as a community recreation center, The Durango Public library, and historic downtown Durango!
12. Visit Lower Cascade Creek Falls
Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Cascade Creek Falls is a hidden gem, tucked in a beautiful canyon- that is the perfect destination that can be visited year around.
How to get to Cascade Creek Falls
From Durango, Drive North on Hwy 550 for 28 miles past Purgatory Resort and Cascade Village. At the hairpin turn, make a right into a dirt parking lot. Park and walk past the cabin and you’ll fund the trail that descends into the canyon.
13. Experience Pagosa Springs Mineral Hot Springs
- Location: 323 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
- Price: $49/adult, $25/child
- Hours: 7 days/week 9am-10pm
Nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Pagosa Springs is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.
Just an hour’s drive from Durango, Pagosa Springs is home to the Hot Springs Resort & Spa, the deepest hot springs in the world. The natural springs are fed by a geothermal pool measuring more than 1,000 feet below the surface that feeds the 25 soaking pools, ranging in temperature from 87 degrees to a toasty 114. In addition, the resort offers a variety of services and amenities, including massage therapy, and lodging.
But did you know that in Pagosa Springs, there is also an abundance of free natural hot springs? If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your day at no cost while visiting, be sure to check out one (or all!) of these free hot springs in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
If you decide to visit Pagosa Springs, check out our guide of 20+ amazing things to do in Pagosa Springs, full of the best activities (hot air balloon rides, anyone?)
14. Step into the Saddle and go on a Horseback Ride
Saddle up on a trusty steed and take a leisurely ride through the scenic mountains of Durango, Colorado. See nature at its best as you take a one or two-hour tour past pine forests, rushing streams, and meadows filled with wildflowers.
Book a 6 hour horseback ride in Durango and explore Cascade Creek Trail. The horses are gentle, so they’re perfect for beginners or those who just want to relax with a scenic horseback riding tour!
15. Find a Place to Eat Downtown Durango
The food scene in Durango is rich and vibrant. With a myriad of options for meals, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience each time you dine! Having the most restaurants per capita, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste. After spending five years in Durango, I can say that the locals know the best places to eat.
Some of my favorite places to eat in Durango include some family friendly restaurants:
- Best Budget-Friendly: Zias Taqueria
- Best Fine Dining in Durango: Eolus Bar & Dining
- Best Family Friendly: Fired Up
- Best Brewery: Steamworks Brewing Company
- Best Quick Bite: 11th Street Station
16. Catch a Fish on the Animas River
Fishing on the Animas River is a great way to enjoy some time in nature in the Animas River Valley and also an excellent opportunity for kids and adults alike to try their hand at catching fish. The Animas River is one of the most scenic rivers in Colorado and provides multiple fishing spots for anglers, including bridges, and shorelines.
If you want to learn how to fly fish, try a guided tour! Expert fishing guides will take you to the best spots on the Animas River. Learn how to catch fish, what flies work well in different conditions, and where. Fly fishing is a great way to get up close to nature while catching an amazing meal for dinner.
17. Downhill Mountain Bike
The Purgatory bike park is a must for downhill mountain bikers. With 400 miles of backcountry single-track mountain biking accessed by chairlift, the trails have plenty to offer riders with varying skill levels and terrain preferences. The trail will be challenging enough for skilled cyclists while still being accessible enough that beginners can get their feet wet before they dive into more advanced routes.
18. Enjoy your Favorite Craft Beer at a Brewery in Town
Craft beer lovers can enjoy the freshest and most flavorful beers at one of many breweries in town. Durango Brewing Company, and Ska Brewing Company are two of the most popular breweries in Durango, but you can also find smaller craft brewers like Steamworks and Animas Brewing Company. Your favorite craft beer awaits you at the many breweries in town!
19. Cliff Jump Adrenaline Falls
When looking for a place to cool off and take a dip in nature, Durango has the perfect little hidden gem. Adrenaline Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Durango, CO. The water cascades for over 50 feet before dropping into an emerald pool below.
This swimming hole has been named “Adrenaline Falls” after its appearance that can provide thrills like no other Colorado attraction! If you’re looking to see some impressive natural beauty this summer and experience the rush of conquering this waterfall, put this unique thing to do in Durango on your list!
How do you get to Adrenaline Falls?
Located off of Lime Creek Road, it can be difficult to find the trail to access the falls. The best way to find the trail is to turn onto the North access to Lime Creek Road and drive 2.2 miles. The trail is short and steep but this swimming hole will leave any explorer feeling satisfied. Here are driving directions to Adrenaline Falls.
20. Camp at Vallecito Lake Near Durango Colorado
- Location: Vallecito Lake, Colorado 81433
Vallecito Lake near Durango, CO is an excellent destination for a family RV camping vacation. With it being located only 18 miles from downtown Durango, Vallecito Campground has plenty of hiking trails through beautiful natural scenery as well as fishing and canoeing opportunities on this beautiful lake. Directions to Vallecito lake.
21. Powerhouse Science Center
- Location: 1295 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81301
- Cost: $9 Adult/ $9 Child (3-12) / Free for 2 & under
- Hours: 9am-4pm (Closed: Mon, Wed, Fri)
Durango’s Powerhouse Science Center is a place where you can learn more about science in an engaging way. Located on the banks of Animas River, it features programs and activities that are hands-on and interactive for all ages.
22. Durango Fish Hatchery & Wildlife Museum
- Location: 151 East 16th Street, Durango, CO 81301
The oldest state-owned fish hatchery in Colorado, The Durango Fish Hatchery raises rainbow, brown, Snake River and native cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon. Inside, you’ll find the Wildlife Museum where you can enjoy historical exhibits and learn more about native Colorado animals.
What to Pack for your Durango Adventure
With your checklist in hand of the best things to do in Durango, all that is left is to pack a suitcase full of gear!
Summer is a great time for visiting Durango, and means you will be spending a lot of time outside on your trip! To make the most of your vacation, pack a bag that you will have ready for any adventure.
- Hat + Sunscreen: Durango is over 7,000 ft in elevation make sure you bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Water bottle: We love to bring a 1 liter Nalgene on every Durango adventure.
- Bug Spray: nothing ruins an outdoor experience quite like itchy bug bites. Don’t get bitten and bring your bug spray.
- Layers: The weather can change quickly in Colorado, bring extra layers.
- Camera: Be sure to document Durangos incredible scenery.
Best Things to do in Durango Colorado
Durango is a charming old mining town with plenty of activities for families to enjoy. There are many outdoor adventures such as fishing, hiking, and camping just waiting to be explored in this beautiful outdoorsman’s paradise!
Have you ever visited Durango? Tell us about your favorite activities in the comments below!
We hope you found our guide of the best things to do in Durango, Colorado this weekend helpful!
More Colorado Travel Guides:
Can you give me more information about the Lower Cascade Creek Falls hike? How far is the hike to the waterfall once you’ve parked in the dirt lot? I’m planning to take 4 kids who are decent hikers but I can’t find any other information about the hike. Thanks!
It’s been years since I did that hike! But we parked in the lot right at the hairpin turn and the trail was right off the lot. I can’t remember the milage, but I believe it was less than a mile, like you said, there’s not much info on it. It’s kind of a hidden gem! Hope this was helpful.