Durango

The most picturesque part of Durango's historic district is Main Avenue, where structures like the Strater Hotel and The General Palmer Hotel serve as a backdrop to its illustrious past. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad depot is located at one end of Main Avenue. You can ride this vintage railroad all the way to Silverton through the hills and valleys of the old prospector region. The amazing Mesa Verde National Park, which contains cliff-side stone palaces and pueblos constructed by the region's indigenous people more than 1,500 years ago, is also accessible from Durango. Durango has served as a source of inspiration for famous authors writing Western novels as well as actors and directors creating award-winning films over the years.

Durango has long been considered a foodie's paradise and was once noted for having more restaurants per capita than San Francisco. You might even find some Durango specialties on the shelves of your local grocery store, such as beers from Ska Brewing and honey, jams, and sauces from Honeyville, as well as green chili from the Durango Diner and confections from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. For their innovative dishes, Durango's chefs, brewers, and artists are recognized with awards every year. Come and taste the delectable treats at the annual Taste of Durango festival to believe it for yourself.

There is still a lot to see in the southwest's ancient history and culture after months of exploration. Durango offers unmatched access to some of the nation's best-preserved history thanks to its more than 2,500 preserved archeological sites, four nearby national monuments, 13 historic sites, two members of the UNESCO World Heritage List, and one national park. Visit Chaco Canyon, spend a day at Mesa Verde National Park, and make a point of escaping to the Weminuche Wilderness for some private time in nature.