Visiting Downtown Durango

Historic Downtown Durango is a charming and vibrant area with a rich history and plenty of attractions. Here are some highlights to explore:

1. Main Avenue: The heart of Historic Downtown Durango, Main Avenue, is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a perfect place for strolling, shopping, and dining.
2. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: This iconic heritage railway offers scenic rides through the stunning San Juan Mountains. The train station is located in downtown Durango and is a must-visit for history and train enthusiasts.
3. General Palmer Hotel: A historic Victorian hotel that’s been welcoming guests since 1898. It’s not only a great place to stay but is the closest hotel to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
4. Art Galleries: Downtown Durango is known for its vibrant arts scene. Numerous galleries showcase a variety of art styles, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more.
5. Museums: The Durango Arts Center and the Animas Museum are both located downtown and offer insights into the local culture, history, and art.
6. Animas River Trail: This scenic trail runs along the Animas River and is perfect for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
7. Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, downtown Durango hosts a range of events and festivals, including music concerts, art fairs, parades, and holiday celebrations.
8. Local Cuisine: The downtown area is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering diverse culinary experiences. From Southwest cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for every palate.
9. Shopping: Explore a mix of boutique shops and specialty stores offering everything from clothing and accessories to unique gifts and souvenirs.
10. Historic Architecture: The architecture in downtown Durango reflects its rich history. Many buildings have retained their original charm, adding to the overall ambiance of the area.
11. Adventure Activities: For the adventurous, you can find outfitters offering activities like river rafting, zip-lining, and more, allowing you to experience the area’s natural beauty and adrenaline-inducing experiences.
12. Nightlife: Downtown Durango comes alive at night with live music venues, bars, and pubs offering a variety of entertainment options.
13. Seasonal Celebrations: Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy seasonal celebrations such as the Durango Independent Film Festival, holiday events, and winter festivities.
14. Local Breweries: Durango is part of Colorado’s vibrant craft beer scene. Downtown boasts several breweries where you can sample local brews and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

These highlights provide just a glimpse of what Historic Downtown Durango has to offer. The area’s unique blend of history, culture, outdoor activities, and entertainment ensures that visitors have a memorable experience regardless of the season they choose to visit.