Durango Colorado, The Ultimate Weekend Escape Clause

Post holiday let down leaving you stressed, frazzled and pulled all different directions? How about a fantastic weekend getaway to unwind and reconnect?

photo courtesy of Sven Brunso

We recently took just that kind of getaway not once but twice to Durango because we were so hooked by this charming little Colorado town. We went for a three-day weekend and ended up returning again because there was so much to do and enjoy in just one weekend. With its historical train rides, historic mining, hotels, skiing, excellent bike trails, outstanding leather stores, and arts and culture, this diverse little getaway has something for everyone. Offering both extremes, there are both therapeutic hot springs and world-class ski resorts all within an hour.

We stayed at the Doubletree Hotel in Durango, overlooking the river, just 2 blocks from the hub of historic downtown where we rented a bicycle built for two at the friendly, local downtown bike shop. After meandering for miles over peaceful, secluded scenic bridges and through pristine parks on a wonderful bike trail we worked up an appetite for about the best dinner we’d had in years.

Ken and Sue’s, one of the best regarded restaurants downtown, offers delicacies like pistachio crusted grouper with sweet potato mash, sautéed spinach and a vanilla rum butter sauce that I’ll surely never forget for as long as I live. We tried the cedar-planked salmon served with the best tomato cucumber salsa I’d ever had and fresh dill from the garden. Award-winning crème brule and apple tart were served with local Durango creamery ice cream—truly unforgettable along with a licorice martini.

photo courtesy of Sven Brunso

After dinner one night we stopped in to get an old time western portrait done at Thru The Lens Photography.

Another night we were glad we visited the Diamond Circle Melodrama & Vaudeville Theater for Durango’s best live entertainment. We loved “boo-ing and hiss-ing” at the villains and cheering for the good guys along with fresh popcorn and refreshments. The service was outstanding and the show’s quality and live music were excellent.

photo courtesy of Ore House

Another night we enjoyed the best ribs I have had in 10+ years at the Ore House restaurant downtown and again only 3 blocks from our hotel. Durango is a great place to put on your walking shoes and just have a blast exploring.

Should you make it to Durango in the fall, spring, or summer be sure to check out the museums, rafting, horseback riding, mountain tours, golfing nearby in Pagosa Springs, or a train ride. There’s even a famous beer pub, Ska Brewing, downtown that offers countless quality beers from around the world like none I’ve seen in years. Just ask the locals, they’ll point you in the right direction. Everyone recommends the place.

No matter when or what you decide to visit in Durango, chances are you’ll return quickly as the friendly people, clean air, and great recreation will enchant you and far exceed your expectations.