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Powerhouse Science Center and around
A day in Durango · 9:30–17:00 · 5 stops
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mapvivid.com/durango-colorado/itineraries/powerhouse-science-center-and-aroundA walking day around Powerhouse Science Center, Strater Hotel and Animas River Trail, with a lunch break nearby and Fort Lewis College Rim Trail to end the day.
Every stop on Google Maps: open the list
Morning
9:301Powerhouse Science Center ↗1 h 30 minWeekdays
Hands-on science museum in a 1893 coal-fired power plant on the river.
- Great for families with kids
- Next to the Animas River Trail
↓ 9 min walk
11:152Grand 1887 Victorian hotel with a walnut-paneled lobby and saloon.
- Peek into the lobby for its antiques
- Catch ragtime piano in the Diamond Belle
↓ 9 min walk
12:153Paved riverside path running through town for about seven miles.
- Rent a bike in town to ride it
- Watch rafters and kayakers on the river
Lunch
13:15Lunch break nearby · Find restaurants nearby on Google Maps ↗
↓ 9 min walk
Afternoon
14:454Main Avenue Historic District ↗1 hAt night
Western main street lined with brick buildings, shops, galleries and brewpubs.
- Walk from the depot to 12th Street
- Many galleries hold evening art walks
↓ 16 min walk
16:005Fort Lewis College Rim Trail ↗1 hSunset
Mesa-top campus rim with a sweeping view over Durango and the valley.
- Best at sunset
- Drive up or climb the stairs from town
Good to know. Times are a guide for an unhurried pace. Check opening days before you go.
Durango tips
Transportation
- Ride the downtown trolley: Durango Transit runs a trolley along Main Avenue linking the historic district, hotels and the north end of town, handy for car-free days.
- Book the narrow gauge railroad: The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad departs from the depot downtown; summer seats sell out, so reserve ahead.
- Cycle the Animas River Trail: This paved path follows the river through town, making biking an easy way to get between parks, downtown and neighborhoods.
Local Hacks
- Day-trip to Mesa Verde: The cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park are about an hour west, so plan a full day and book ranger tours.
- Watch the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic: Over Memorial Day weekend cyclists race the steam train to Silverton, a lively local tradition.
- Soak at Trimble Hot Springs: The hot springs just north of town are a relaxing finish after a day on the slopes or trails.
Saving
- Hike Horse Gulch for free: The trail system right behind downtown offers miles of free hiking and mountain biking with views over the valley.
- Ride one way on the train: Taking the railroad to Silverton and returning by bus shortens the day and can be cheaper than some round-trip options.
- Visit in shoulder season: Late spring and autumn bring lower hotel rates than summer and ski season, with golden aspens in fall.
Security
- Lock up food from bears: Black bears regularly wander into Durango neighborhoods, so never leave food or coolers in cars or unlocked bins.
- Respect high altitude: At around 6,500 feet, drink extra water, go easy on alcohol the first day and wear sunscreen even when it feels cool.
- Raft with a guide: The Animas River can run fast and cold during spring snowmelt, so book a licensed rafting outfitter rather than floating alone.
Cultural
- Try green chile: Southwest flavors are everywhere in Durango, and smothered burritos with green chile are a local favorite.
- Join Snowdown: This quirky winter festival in early February brings themed parades, costumes and community events to downtown.
- Stop at the Strater Hotel: The historic Victorian hotel on Main Avenue reflects Durango's railroad-era roots and hosts live music.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect summer monsoon storms: July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms, so start hikes early and carry a rain shell.
- Layer for big temperature swings: Mountain mornings can be chilly even in summer; pack a fleece and a sun hat for the same day.
- Gear up for snow: Winter brings snow to Purgatory Resort and cold nights in town, so bring insulated layers and traction for icy sidewalks.
Planned with MapVivid. Opening hours change, so check each place before you go. This day, with the map: mapvivid.com/durango-colorado/itineraries/powerhouse-science-center-and-around
Day 1 of 19:30–17:005 stops
Powerhouse Science Center and around
A walking day around Powerhouse Science Center, Strater Hotel and Animas River Trail, with a lunch break nearby and Fort Lewis College Rim Trail to end the day.
Opens Google Maps with every stop of the day, ready to save to your own list.
Morning
109:30 · 1 h 30 minHands-on science museum in a 1893 coal-fired power plant on the river.
- Tip: Weekdays
2 tips
- Great for families with kids
- Next to the Animas River Trail
📷 Photos
9 min walk
211:15 · 1 hGrand 1887 Victorian hotel with a walnut-paneled lobby and saloon.
3 tips
- Peek into the lobby for its antiques
- Catch ragtime piano in the Diamond Belle
- Check for the summer melodrama shows
📷 Photos
9 min walk
312:15 · 1 hPaved riverside path running through town for about seven miles.
3 tips
- Rent a bike in town to ride it
- Watch rafters and kayakers on the river
- Access from many points downtown
📷 Photos
Lunch
Lunch break nearby · 13:15
Find restaurants nearby on Google Maps9 min walk
Afternoon
414:45 · 1 hWestern main street lined with brick buildings, shops, galleries and brewpubs.
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Walk from the depot to 12th Street
- Many galleries hold evening art walks
- Great for souvenir and outdoor gear shopping
📷 Photos
16 min walk
516:00 · 1 hMesa-top campus rim with a sweeping view over Durango and the valley.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Best at sunset
- Drive up or climb the stairs from town
- Free parking on weekends
📷 Photos
Take this day with you
Add the stops to your calendar
Times are local time in Durango. Apple Calendar adds every stop at once (Outlook too). Google Calendar adds one event per link.
Times are a guide for an unhurried pace. Check opening days before you go.