Top reasons to visit Durango
- Outdoor Adventure: Durango is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, offering skiing, hiking, and a variety of outdoor sports amidst breathtaking landscapes.
- Historic Railways: Experience the charm of Durango through its historic railways, which provide scenic journeys through the stunning Colorado mountains.
- Vibrant Downtown: Explore the lively downtown area filled with delightful restaurants, art galleries, and unique local shops.
- Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of outdoor activities.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover serene neighbourhoods that showcase the town's rich history and natural beauty.
Find great hotels in Durango
Discover the charm of Durango, Colorado, where a variety of accommodation options await to fulfil your every need. Whether you seek a cosy lodge or an adventurous hotel, Durango offers pet-friendly and business-ready facilities that cater to both leisure and corporate travellers. Enjoy a memorable stay with convenient access to the stunning natural scenery and local attractions, ensuring a delightful vacation experience for everyone.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Durango: A budget-friendly option, Comfort Inn & Suites Durango is ideal for travellers seeking an adventure-filled getaway. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel is well-situated for those looking to explore hot spring activities and ski adventures. Guests can enjoy the nearby natural hot springs and partake in various adventure sports such as kayaking, ziplining, rock climbing, horse riding, and mountain climbing. The ski shuttle and lift services are conveniently located for easy access to the slopes, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Durango: Rated 9.0 out of 10, DoubleTree by Hilton Durango offers a refined 4-star experience with a focus on family and adventure vacations. Nestled close to natural hot springs, this hotel provides excellent amenities for children, including free cribs and highchairs. Adventurous guests can engage in activities like fishing, downhill skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and rafting, ensuring an exciting stay for all ages. The welcoming atmosphere and commitment to family-friendly service make this hotel a distinguished choice for those travelling with children.
- Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn: Another budget-friendly option, Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10 and is particularly well-suited for business travellers and pet owners. With natural hot springs nearby, guests can also enjoy the convenience of pet-friendly amenities, including specific policies for dogs. The hotel ’s well-appointed facilities cater to both business needs and leisure pursuits, making it a flexible choice for those travelling with pets or on work-related trips.
Where to stay in Durango
Durango, Colorado, is a charming city perfect for skiing and adventure seekers. Its vibrant downtown offers a delightful mix of historical excursions and recreational activities. Just a short distance from the city centre, you can explore beautiful neighbourhoods that provide a serene atmosphere and stunning scenery. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor experiences or a glimpse into the area's rich history, Durango promises an unforgettable vacation filled with diverse vibes and attractions.
- Hermosa: Nestled near Durango, Hermosa is a charming village that beckons adventure enthusiasts year-round. While visitor numbers peak from July to September, the allure of skiing and outdoor sports draws travellers throughout the seasons. The area is renowned for its proximity to ski fields and resorts, making it a prime destination for winter sports. Beyond skiing, visitors can explore local attractions such as serene lakes, soothing hot springs, and a historic railway that adds a touch of nostalgia to the journey.
- Animas River Trail: A beautiful route located around Durango, the Animas River Trail is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure. This scenic footpath and cycling route is popular throughout the year, with peak visits occurring between July and September. The trail offers exhilarating experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, including access to ski resorts and fields. Nature lovers will appreciate its proximity to a national state park, picturesque lakes, and peaceful parks, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration amidst stunning landscapes.
- Historic Downtown Durango: The Historic Downtown area of Durango is a vibrant neighbourhood steeped in charm and history. Visitors flock here year-round, particularly during the summer months. This area is ideal for those interested in skiing, adventure, and sports, with ski fields and resorts just a stone's throw away. In addition to its outdoor appeal, Historic Downtown is home to fascinating landmarks such as a railway museum, historic railways, and rejuvenating hot springs, making it an exciting destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Things to do in Durango
Shopping
In Durango, visit the Durango Mall for a mix of retail shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, check out the Animas Valley Mall, which offers a wider selection of stores and unique finds in a charming setting.
Recreation
Explore the serene atmosphere at the Durango Hot Springs, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters and rejuvenate your body. For a dose of adventure, enjoy hiking along the Animas River Trail, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Adventure
Explore the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a scenic train ride through the stunning San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. For thrill-seekers, white-water rafting on the Animas River provides an exhilarating experience with rapids suitable for various skill levels.
Nightlife
Durango's nightlife features lively bars and venues like the historic Strater Hotel, where you can enjoy live music. For a more relaxed evening, check out the Animas Brewing Company, offering craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. Explore the charming downtown area for a variety of dining and entertainment options.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durango
To save money during your visit to Durango, consider taking advantage of the many free activities available, such as exploring Fort Lewis College and the scenic Lemon Reservoir. For transport, utilise the local bus service, which is economical. Plan your trip during the off-peak months of January to February or November for lower accommodation rates, and aim to book your stay on a Tuesday for the best prices. Use Expedia to combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for added savings, and consider eco-certified hotels for affordable, sustainable options.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durango are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Durango is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Durango is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Durango with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Durango
Durango, Colorado, is an ideal destination for ski enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a variety of attractions such as historic railways, picturesque lakes, and soothing hot springs. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying outdoor activities and a beach-like experience. Don't miss the chance to explore the charming town of Durango and its surrounding natural beauty.
- Dalton Ranch Golf Club: Nestled in the scenic landscape of Durango, this golf club offers a unique blend of friendly service and historical charm. Enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning views, while immersing yourself in the rich local history that the club embodies.
- Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Step aboard this historic railway for a journey through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Experience the culture and history of the region as you traverse the tracks that have connected communities for over a century.
- Durango Hot Springs Spa: This outdoor hot springs destination invites you to unwind and rejuvenate. Enjoy a tranquil atmosphere that promotes wellness and relaxation, making it an ideal spot to recharge amidst nature.
Best time to go to Durango
The best time to visit Durango is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Durango
Accessing Durango, Colorado, is convenient via three major airports. La Plata County Airport (DRO) is located 18km from Durango, with nearby accommodations such as the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton and The General Palmer Hotel, both offering easy access to the airport. Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is 137km away, with good hotel options like the Quality Inn and Suites and Holiday Inn Express, each providing transport services to the airport. Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) is 163km from Durango, with hotels like The Gunnison Inn and Comfort Inn & Suites offering limited transportation options. Each airport provides a gateway to the scenic beauty of Durango.