Though Durango is more upscale than its ever been, some things haven’t changed since the 1890s—you’ll still find the Animas River flowing through downtown, dim saloons hawking pints, and the same railroad running from right here to scenic Silverton, 45 miles (72.4 kilometers) north. (Don’t miss the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Museum, right on the railyard, to learn all about the route’s wild history.)
If you can, book accommodations at the 1887 Strater Hotel, a true masterpiece of Durango history and an exquisite example of American Victorian architecture. It also happens to sit right on Main Avenue, in the mix of Downtown Durango’s best restaurants and just three blocks from the Animas River Trail & Greenway.