When planning a move to Durango, Colorado (or anywhere else), you need to know a little about the place before you hire the movers. Here’s why Durango may be a perfect fit for you.
Considering a move to Durango? This lively city in southwest Colorado is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and art patrons with its eclectic blend of adventure, culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery, a serene retirement, or you want to nurture your inner artist, Durango offers a lifestyle many can only dream of.
Durango Demographics and Climate
So, what’s it like to live in Durango, Colorado? With a population of around 19,000, Durango maintains a small-town feel while offering amenities often found in larger cities. The city has a lower cost of living than many Colorado locales, although it is the second-highest in Southwest Colorado. But it also offers high-quality education with its public schools and Fort Lewis College.
The city enjoys over 250 days of sunshine each year, creating a climate that features snowy, picturesque winters and pleasantly warm summers, perfect for outdoor activities in any season.
A Brief History of Durango
Durango’s economy has certainly evolved over the years. When the city was founded in 1880, it primarily existed to aid in mining operations further north in the Silverton area. By the early 1900s, Durango had already become a tourist destination, thanks to the establishment of the San Juan National Forest (1905) and Mesa Verde National Park (1906).
The city’s history is also interwoven with the culture of the Native American tribes of the region, particularly the Ute and Navajo, adding a unique cultural dimension to the community.
Outdoor Activities in Durango
Durango is renowned for its outdoor recreation. You’ll find an array of natural wonders not far from town, such as the San Juan Mountains, Mesa Verde National Park, and the San Juan National Forest. These areas offer endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, birding, and exploration of Colorado’s stunning landscapes.
The Animas River, running through the city, offers excellent opportunities for fishing, rafting, and kayaking and is the inspiration behind such events as Animas River Days.
Year-Round Events in Durango
Speaking of events [future internal link], Durango is a cultural and entertainment hotspot in Southwest Colorado and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year.
For instance, the Durango Celtic festival in the spring brings traditional and modern Celtic music to the city. Music in the Mountains celebrates classical music, with 40 events scheduled over four weeks in the summer.
Durango Independent Film Festival brings up-and-coming filmmakers to the area, while San Juan Brewfest lets you taste the latest creations from more than 30 area breweries.
If you’re more interested in fine arts, there’s a First Friday Art Walk every month from March through November, while the Durango Autumn Arts Festival happens in September.
And if you prefer your entertainment a little dusty, the True Western Roundup happens every year at La Plata County Fairgrounds. There’s an event for every taste and style in Durango.
Historic Downtown Durango
Durango has retained much of its original character from its 1880 founding, and portions of the downtown historic district feel like you’ve walked onto a Western movie set. It simply exudes charm and is a hub for local businesses, offering everything from quaint shops and gourmet restaurants to craft breweries and art galleries. This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for leisurely strolls, shopping, and dining.
If you’re looking to spend time outdoors in an eclectic community that values history, art, music, and some Old West spirit, Durango might be the place for you. From the restaurants, coffee shops, and art galleries downtown, to the hiking and biking trails in the San Juan Mountains, and fishing and rafting on the Animas River, Durango offers something for everyone.
