Get the Most Out of Your Romantic Getaway in Durango, Colorado
Durango is known for its seemingly endless outdoor activities, but it’s also the perfect place for a romantic getaway in the spring. From a charming ride on the historic rails to stargazing on the top of a mountain overlook, Durango will romance you like no town has before. In order to get the most out of your Durango vacation we have put together a detailed 4 day itinerary to help you plan and enjoy an incredibly romantic holiday.
Explore All the Romantic Experiences Durango has to Offer
Day 1
Your first day in Durango is going to be action packed, so be sure to start the day off right with a delicious breakfast and some caffeine from one of the most popular cafes in town - Bread. This quaint bakery and coffee shop serves up Belgian waffles, avocado toast, coffee, espresso and more. The staff is really friendly and always happy to help get your day started.
For a fan of the game, there's nothing better than a round of golf with the sun shining, a nice breeze and views that make any tee shot look good. Durango is home to Hillcrest Golf Course, and it is truly a one-of-a-kind sporting experience. Set atop a scenic mesa which overlooks the town of Durango Hillcrest Golf Course offers convenience and beauty that compares to no other in the four corners region. The 18 hole course is surrounded by the Southern Colorado Rockies and provides golfers the opportunity to play golf with a feeling of being on top of the world.
After some fun in the sun on the golf course it is time to relax, refresh and renew at the Woodhouse Day Spa. Indulge yourself with one of the many spa services they provide including the signature four-handed massage, an invigorating Vichy shower treatments, award-winning facials or the Woodhouse Day Spa signature manicure or pedicure. From the quiet room that overlooks the Animas River to the many styles of massage, the Woodhouse Day Spa will help you find the comfort you so deserve.
If you are looking for award-winning Mediterranean cuisine during your stay in downtown Durango we highly recommend the Dandelion Cafe - where Mediterranean meets the mountains. The Dandelion Cafe is a town favorite, but it is also recommended in Bon Appetit, Sunset Magazine and The New York Times. There is indoor seating, but the Dandelion features one of Durango's favorite patios, and if you are lucky you might catch some live jazz music with your lunch.
One of the reasons Durango is such a dynamic destination is the ever changing seasons and surroundings. One of the best parts about springtime in Durango is watching the Animas River come to life with the snowmelt and rising waters. Whitewater Park is conveniently located in the heart of Durango and offers awesome views of the Animas river, rapids and the brave souls who kayak and raft the river. The park features grassy areas, park benches and covered pavilions so you can relax by the river and take in the sights and sounds. This is the perfect way to relax and reflect after a busy day in Colorado.
The town of Durango loves a craft brewery where the food is as good as the beer, and Carver Brewing Co. on Main Avenue is one of the best breweries in town. Enjoy dining on the newly constructed bump out, the hidden beer garden or the dining room. The menu is full of food and drink choices for everyone, but might we recommend the Bavarian Pretzel, honey mustard and beer cheese paired with the Big Bike Double IPA. Be sure to explore all the Durango Breweries during your spring vacation.
The Animas Chocolate Company is about as "Durango" as it gets because they are small-batch chocolate makers and artisan chocolatiers who rate their products just like river rapids: Class I being the easiest, most gentle and Class V being for those with a truly adventurous spirit. Stop by the Animas Chocolate Company and enjoy craft chocolates and coffee that we designed to be vehicles of joy.
Discover More Things to do in Durango in the Springtime
Day 2
Hermosa Cafe is the type of place that makes you feel like a regular, and that is the hospitality we strive for in Durango. Start your day with breakfast and fresh roasted coffee from Hermosa Cafe so you have the energy you need for another exciting day in Durango. Famous for the Green Avocado Toast and the Blue Pistachio Toast, Hermosa Cafe makes everything to order so it's as fresh as the Durango air. You can also enjoy an assortment of pastries, espresso, tea and more.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of Durango's most popular attractions, and as you will see it's for good reason. Ride the historic rails through the San Juan National Forest for an outing and views like you've never experienced. The D&SNG is a National Historic Landmark that allows you to relive the “Golden Age'' of American history on a passenger train. The team at D&SNR are dedicated to providing you with an authentic railroading history experience presented as it was in 1882. All aboard!
After you experience the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad first hand your next stop should be the D&SNR Train Museum to learn more about the history of railroads and mining in the American southwest. The museum is full of interesting artifacts that were donated by the families of the many railroad workers throughout history. The staff is very passionate about providing you with an authentic and educational experience that will leave you with an even greater appreciation of trains and railroads.
Ska Brewing Company is a local favorite in Durango, but their beer is so good that it is distributed nationwide. In addition to amazing craft beer and seltzers, Ska Brewing Company also features a full menu with tasty lunch and dinner options for everyone including salads, burgers, sandwiches, small plates and more. The menu at Ska Brewing features freshest, local ingredients, like the local, house-ground beef finished on spent grain from the brewery. Ska’s flavor-packed beers can be found in the food recipes as well. Cheers to quality food and craft beer.
Durango is home to an assortment of art galleries featuring historic art, modern art and everything in between. A self guided art gallery tour is a great way to spend the afternoon in Durango and to discover new art and artists. With 30 unique galleries and museums, Durango sits at the intersection of historic southwestern and modern mountain culture. Be sure to check out this complete list of art galleries in Durango.
Durango is a quaint mountain town with an incredible selection of dining experiences. Eolus Bar & Dining is one of Durango's best restaurants in town featuring a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional menu items. This locally owned and operated eatery is a new American restaurant that provides exquisite entrees, sushi, craft cocktails and exceptional customer service.
While the Bookcase & Barber is in fact a great place to get a haircut and shave, like most of Durango there is more than meets the eye. Rumor has it, you can access specialty-crafted cocktails and take a step back in time to the Prohibition era if you know just what to say. A secret speakeasy is the perfect way to end your exciting day in Durango, and think of the stories you’ll have to tell.
Discover More Durango Restaurants
Day 3
Start your day with breakfast, coffee and a smile at the Smiley Cafe. The Smiley Cafe features fresh-baked goods, breakfast menu items, coffee, boba & African foods in a beautiful restored historic building. The Smiley Cafe puts an emphasis on quality local food & coffee and strives to be a great place to enjoy time with friends and family.
Since 1957, the Toh-Atin Gallery of Durango has been the trusted source for authentic Native American and Southwestern Art. When you visit Durango you definitely need to make a stop at this on-of-a-kind gallery to explore history, culture, art and more. Discover beautiful art, jewelry and crafts and learn some of the stories behind the art and artists. The gallery is open Monday - Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Sunday from 10 am -to 5 pm. The Toh-Atin Gallery is distinctly Durango and a must-see when you are visiting.
If you are looking for Mexican inspired street food with cold beer, margaritas and more be sure to dine with Switchback Taco when you visit Durango. A lot of love goes into every meal and the customer service at Switchback. Enjoy dining on the newly constructed bump out on Main Avenue, the dining room or the back patio. One of the best features of Switchback is the option to order à la carte and try a little of everything.
The Spud Lake Trail Loop is an approachable 3.1 mile hike with very little elevation gain near a beaver pond offering hikers the ability to see and photograph a lot of wildlife including beavers, deer, elk and more. Spud lake becomes a very colorful trail during the late spring and summer when the wildflowers and aspens are in bloom. The Spud Lake Trail Loop is about 30 miles from Durango making it a perfect day hike adventure. Be sure to check out all the hiking options in and around Durango.
Now that you have experienced the natural beauty of Durango firsthand, be sure to visit the Scenic Aperture Photography Gallery to view landscape, wildlife and nature photography captured by the pros. Scenic Aperture’s gallery is located in the heart of Durango’s vibrant art scene and features fine-art nature photography of the Four-Corners area of the American Southwest.
After another exciting day in Durango it's time to treat yourself to fresh, season cuisine from Seasons of Durango. Firmly rooted in American-style cooking perfectly paired with exemplary service, Seasons of Durango features a dining room that buzzes with the excitement of an open exhibition kitchen, award winning wine list and incredible views of downtown. The Seasons’ menu focuses on simple dishes prepared with exceptionally fresh ingredients and is sure to provide you with a delightful dining experience.
One of the most romantic and relaxing things you can do when you visit Durango is to immerse yourself in the healing waters of Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa. Reservations are required to ensure a quality experience for all guests, so make sure to book in advance. Durango Hot Springs features 26 unique thermal mineral water features including 16 natural mineral hot springs soaking pools, 8 private Japanese-inspired cedar soaking tubs, reflexology walking path and a mineral water rain tower. Other amenities include a resort-style swimming pool, Finnish dry saunas, and cold plunge pool. In addition to the therapeutic waters you can also treat yourself to a full complement of spa treatments including a relaxation massage.
A romantic getaway would not be complete without the fun and excitement of live music at the Diamond Belle Saloon in the historic Strater hotel. The Belle features ragtime pianist as well as other local musicians playing some of your favorites along with some tunes you may have never heard before. Take a journey back in time giving you the feeling of living in the old west.
When the sun sets the skies above Durango come to life with more stars than you can count. Our unique geographic location coupled with our lack of light pollution make Durango an incredible star gazing locale. The Animas Mountain Trail is one of Durango's best hikes, but it's also one of the best stargazing spots in town. With more than 1,500’ of elevation gain and overlooks from nearly every side of the mountain, you’re sure to get the full 360-degree view of the sky on a clear night. Be sure to check out all the amazing stargazing destinations near Durango.
Day 4
Start your final day in Durango with a delicious breakfast from the College Drive Cafe. The College Drive Cafe features a large menu, fresh roasted artisan coffee and a friendly staff that makes everyone feel like a regular. The College Drive Cafe is a true home-town establishment and a perfect example of the hospitality and quality food that make Durango a special place.
Just 2 miles from downtown Durango you will find the incredible blue waters and inviting beaches of Lake Nighthorse. Lake Nighthorse is approximately 1,500 acres at maximum elevation and the reservoir area includes a total of approximately 5,500 acres. The lake is perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking and more. There is also a really nice sandy beach area with picnic tables and plenty of room for sunbathing. You'll be amazed by how close this beautiful lake is to Durango. Depending on when you visit Durango the hours of operation of Lake Nighthorse vary by season. From April 1st to May 22nd the lake is open on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. From May 22nd to May 31st the lake is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. From June 1st to September 3rd the lake is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
When Visit Durango recently asked our social media audience for the best place to grab a beer and a burger in Durango an overwhelming majority of people said, “James Ranch.” Some were even quoted as saying, “...the burgers at James Ranch will change your life.” Others added that they, “...can’t stop thinking about the burger from James Ranch.” We highly recommend a stop at James Ranch when you visit Durango. The secret to the success of James Ranch is the fact they offer 100% grass fed and finished beef, whey-fed pork, artisan cheese and raw milk from 100% grass-fed, grazing Jersey cows, eggs produced from pastured hens, a spruce tree nursery, an regenerative vegetable and flower garden, and a thriving grill and market.
Explore some of Durango's finest wine with a tasting from Four Leaves Winery. As soon as you enter Four Leaves' historic building the overwhelming aroma of wine will excite your palate. Four Leaves Winery import grapes from all over the world and then ferment, blend and bottle all of their wines right in front of you. This exclusive winery is located across the street from the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad station and must see during your romantic getaway to Durango.
With more than 500 retail locations, window shopping in Durango is almost as extreme as the many outdoor activities. When you visit Durango we highly recommend a casual stroll down Main Avenue to explore the seemingly endless array of shops. Whether you’re looking for fine art, craft chocolates, clothing or something fun to remember Durango - the shops on Main Avenue and around Durango never disappoint. Take a look at the wide array of shopping experiences available in Durango.
After your full contact window shopping outing you might be ready to sitback, relax and enjoy some live music on the second story venue that is the Balcony Bar & Grill. Located on Main Avenue the Balcony Bar & Grill is one of the best spots in town to enjoy live music in an open-air environment. Tourists and locals alike enjoy being able to listen to the works of local musicians while shooting the breeze on the Main Avenue balcony.
Last, but certainly not least we highly recommend dinner and drinks at El Moro Spirits and Tavern on Main Avenue in downtown Durango. El Moro is one of Durango's premier places for fine food and drinks set in a very inviting and romantic atmosphere that used to house one of Durango's wildest saloons. Featuring craft cocktails and something for every palette, El Moro is a must see when you visit Durango and highly recommended by everyone at Visit Durango.
Check Out More Springtime Activities in Durango
Plan Your Durango Spring Vacation
Durango is “Always in Season” and the springtime is the perfect time for a romantic getaway. The fresh air and natural beauty will have you feeling good as soon as you set foot in Durango, and the many outdoor activities, shopping and dining options will keep you coming back for more. Durango is certainly the type of place where you can improvise and have an incredible time, but with a little planning your springtime romantic getaway to Durango will instantly become one of your favorite vacation experiences.
