Experience the Beauty of Durango, a Charming Colorado Mountain Town

Experience the delight of Durango! Once a frontier mining town, the small city continues to draw in visitors, thanks to its train rides, skiing, museums and a wide variety of restaurants.

Begin your day soaking up Durango’s natural beauty with a Snowmobile Adventures tour. One of their mountain guides will teach you how to ride a snowmobile, and they offer different tour options for exploring the more than 75 miles of trails.

When you’re ready for a lunch break, stop by Steamworks Brewing Co. to nosh on a variety of flavorful foods. Choose from delicious options like Chipotle Braised Chicken, Whiskey Style Burgers, Smoky Prime Rib Dip and Cajun Cavatappi Pasta.

As the sun sets, head to the Animas City Theatre for a night of entertainment. This cozy local venue (which also has two bars) hosts regular magic shows, live musical performances and independent movies.

Shop for unique goods at the Antique Market

Courtesy of Visit DurangoVisit Durango
Courtesy of Visit DurangoVisit Durango

Located in the Olde Penney Building, the market features more than 20 vendors. You can find a collection of western items, jewelry, vintage clothing, collectibles, antiques and more. A trip inside will show you why The Durango Herald has continuously voted it the “best antique store.”

Climb aboard the historic Durango-Silverton train for a scenic ride

John Elk III/Getty
John Elk III/Getty

You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time as you experience the “Golden Age” in 1882 on this National Historic Landmark. Its journey through the San Juan National Forest, with views of the mountain vistas, make for a truly memorable experience.

Kick back and relax as you enjoy a carriage ride through town

Created by MaryAnne Nelson/Getty
Created by MaryAnne Nelson/Getty

Enjoy the clip-clop of horse feet on the streets of Durango as you pass by the town’s highlights. In the winter months, enjoy a thrilling and picturesque sleigh ride through the snow!

Take a mini vacation—at home!

Experience Durango with a cocktail inspired by the drinks at Diamond Belle Saloon and a virtual stroll!

Old-Fashioned Spritzers

MonicaNinker/Getty
MonicaNinker/Getty

Ingredients

In a pitcher, combine all ingredients. Dividing evenly, pour into 8 ice-filled glasses. Top each with club soda; garnish with orange zest.

Virtual tour: Main Street Tour

Take in Durango’s historic downtown with a seasonal virtual walking tour. It’s the perfect chance to “window shop” while also catching a glimpse of the mountain scenery in the background. Simply watch the Winter Durango walk video posted by “People Watching” on YouTube.com.

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Aaron Moody is a sports and general reporter for the News & Observer. Here is a second sentence for the bio because it will probably be longer than this. Maybe even longer I don't know. Support my work with a digital subscription

This story was originally published January 4, 2025 at 3:30 PM