Breaking down Day 3 in our Southwest Screensaver Road Trip through Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. So, what did we do to play and explore in Durango, Colorado?
We picked Durango, Colorado as the basecamp for our trip for a couple of reasons. At this stage, when we travel, we really need a location we can set and stay for a few days. Durango was a perfect destination for exploring and completing day trips without having to travel too far. And, there really is a lot to do right there. The weather was perfect and it’s centrally located.
As I mentioned earlier in the week, I just researched and planned this trip while we were traveling. Pinterest, as always, proved to be a great spot for capturing new ideas and exploring others.
Durango is a town like many in the area that was founded around the 1880s and exploded with the arrival of the Railroad. The Animas River feature is central to the town and much of the terrain is built around this natural attraction. You can explore more of the history of this town and do extra planning at the Visit Durango website, but this town truly is the place where the West meets the Southwest and the colliding of cultures, cuisines, and activities make it a great destination.
How did we spend our day in Durango on the Epic Southwest USA Screensaver Family Road Trip?
- Santa Rita Park – basically a City Park with access to the Animas River Trail. The park has public art, a nice playground, a harmony park, covered park benches, the Santa Rita Water Reclamation Facility and access to the Whitewater Park.
- Animas River Park walking trail. Great way to start our day with exercise and in nature. Walk or ride as far as you want, just remember you have to return and walk back to your car. There is also access to the “downriver” section near/behind the La Quinta Inn and shopping center. This is the area of the trail I had seen on Trip Advisor, but where we explored I would definitely explore again.
- Visit the Tourism and Visitor Center in Downtown Durango to ask questions. They have a clean bathroom, air conditioner, activities for the kids and you can book tours and gather information for the week.
- Spend time playing around downtown in shops, coffee shops, or the historic walking tours. There are many clothing boutiques, authentic jewelry, book shops, home decor. Its a really great place to shop and sip. There are park benches along the way and many people were sitting with their dog or reading a book.
- Walk down to the historic train station and buy tickets for later in the week. While you are there, tour the train museum. And when you plan to tour, give yourself up to 2 hours. There is so much to see, read and look at while you are in the museum.
- Plan for lunch, brunch, drinks or dining at the Palace Restaurant. But there are many good places and variety along Main Street and in Downtown.
- Our initial afternoon plan was to shop and visit one of the museums, but Little Man threw the biggest fit at lunch and did not have a nap, and it was hot, so we got in the car and explored up the San Juan Skyway to Ouray. It was not originally on our plan, but I’m so glad we added it. It ended up being one of my favorite parts of our trip. But, you’ll have to wait for that story until tomorrow!
Other Durango attractions to explore:
- Historic walking tours – self-guided tours of Main Street and historic homes along Third Street. Get directions and the walking maps at the Visitor Center.
- Strater Hotel – is the iconic landmark of the downtown area and in the “West,”. It is on the National Register of Historic Hotels and is probably where I would suggest staying if your travel party allows. So much history and a historical collection of antique furniture.
- Durango Hatchery and Wildlife Museum – built in 1893, they raise and release more than 1 million fish each year, specifically focusing on 4 species of trout.
- Animas Museum – historical museum telling the story of La Plata County. Check before you go, there may be passes that combine admission to these locations for a discount.
- Chuckwagon show – a fun family event every night. We did not do this because we thought we could not keep little man wrangled, but it looked super fun. Its a show and dinner all together. If reminded me of a spot we stopped in Palo Duro Canyon growing up.
- Serious Texas BBQ – picked this up to go later in the week. The “South” location also has a putt-putt course. But, the food was awesome.
- Jean Pierre Bakery – read the reviews and do it. It was everything I wanted in a perfect french bistro. The desserts and pastries were picture-perfect, the service exquisite and the atmosphere charming. I’d do it again every day if I could!
- 8 National Monuments are considered part of the Durango area – so much to explore and discover.
In short, it was a perfect place to spend several days. You can be a romantic, playful, extreme adventure or relax and just take in the sites. Getaway to Durango, I dare you!
Southwest USA Screensaver Epic Family Road Trip Itinerary
If you missed any of the previous posts from this epic family road trip with a toddler, check out the full itinerary below:
