Durango in a Weekend

Ever since we started having friends and family come visit us in Durango, I've thought about what would perfectly showcase Durango in 2-3 days. Here's what I've come up with. This itinerary is more applicable to the Summer months.

Day 1: Friday

Afternoon 1: Once your guests have arrived and dropped their suitcases, whisk them away to downtown for some window shopping and eats. Peruse the shops and galleries on Main Ave. until hunger strikes. Then head up to 2nd Avenue for my favorite place to eat downtown for lunch, 2nd Deli, a sandwich spot that just feels like Durango.

Evening 1: Dinner time already? I recommend Fired Up's rooftop, one of my favorite dining spots in Durango, El Moro or Eolus (which also has a fabulous rooftop) for something a little fancier.

Day 2: Saturday

Morning 1, Option 1: For the more adventurous, hit the ground running with some hiking or biking. Nothing showcases our city better than Durango's hiking trails. Or check out my favorite trails in the Summer trails. Fuel up beforehand with a delicious (and giant) breakfast burrito from Backcountry Gourmet at 11th Street Station. 81301 Coffee is also an excellent choice for coffee and burritos if you're heading North.

Morning 1, Option 2: Craving a more laid-back Saturday? Visit the Durango Farmers Market (8 am to noon at the TBK Bank parking lot downtown) and experience the rich variety of food and art this region has to offer. Then walk up to Hermosa Cafe for yummy pastries (aka the best quiche) and coffee. Sit on their Main Avenue patio for excellent people watching. Looking for a more upscale brunch? Check out El Moro. Afterwards, head over to the Animas River trail for a relaxing stroll or bike ride along the river. The views from this 7-mile trail are hard to beat. (Bikes can be rented from 2nd Avenue Sports.)

Afternoon 2: Come afternoon, why not check out Colorado's finest hot springs? With several different semi-private pools, views of the Animas valley, and a food truck and bar, the Durango Hot Springs always wows guests. While you're north of town, stop by my favorite place in the valley for food and views, James Ranch. Or peruse their market for groceries to cook at home.

Evening 2: Looking for some Saturday night frivolity? Start your night at 11th Street Station for a patio with great drinks and live music, or hit up Peeples Bar and enjoy drinks in the garden at the Rochester. Then hit up The Ranch, arguably the most raucous bar in Durango, or the Wild Horse Saloon, a country bar that makes you question whether you're in Texas or Colorado. Cap off your night at The Bookcase and Barber, a snazzy little speakeasy (password found on their website under the name).

Day 3: Sunday

Morning 2: Let's go to the river! The Animas River is still considered the lifeblood of the city. Enjoy it up close via raft, kayak, or paddleboard. Rafting or guided kayak tours should be booked ahead of time and can usually be scheduled as early as 9 am. Paddleboards can be rented from Roll Durango or just snag a cheap tube from Walmart! Whether you're just dipping your toes in or rafting the rapids, you'll be thankful you enjoyed some time in the Animas.

Afternoon 3: Have time for one last drink? Check out one (or more of our local breweries): Ska Brewery, Animas Brewing, or Steamworks are my faves. Not a beer fan? Try out Esoterra's tasting room, a local cidery.

Note: Obviously, many of these activities can be switched around in any order that you prefer, i.e., hit the hot springs on Friday afternoon instead of Saturday! However, I would suggest planning outdoor activities like hiking or rafting for the morning, as afternoon thunderstorms can be common in the Summer months.