Museums in Durango, CO
Of all the things to do in Durango, CO, one of the most fascinating activities is touring the local museums. From in-depth exhibits about local history, to hands-on features for kids, you’ll find that the museums in Durango, CO have a little something for everyone.
We’ve put together a list of museums around town for you to check out during your visit.
Animas Museum
- Address: 3065 West 2nd Ave, Durango, CO
- Distance from Gable House Inn: 2.3 miles
- Hours: Tues, Thurs, Sat 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wednesday 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
A popular stop for locals and visitors alike, the Animas Museum was originally built as a schoolhouse around the turn of the 20th century. Over the years, it has undergone renovations and now serves as the definitive source of local history.
The main exhibit is the restored 1905 classroom, a permanent attraction that allows visitors to travel back in time to view how education was conducted over a hundred years ago.
However, this is far from the only exhibit available. The Animas Museum regularly holds other exhibits on a range of different topics. For example, there have been exhibits on:
- The stories of how settlers came to La Planta County
- The lawlessness and feuds of the region during the Wild West
- The rich history of the native Basketmaker people in the Animas Valley
- The impacts of WW1 and the 1918 flu pandemic
In addition, you can also download PDFs on their website that allow you to take self-guided walking tours of the surrounding area.
Powerhouse Science Center
- 1295 Camino Del Río, Durango, CO
- Distance from Gable House Inn: 0.8 mile
- Hours: Tues, Thurs, Sat - Sun 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Closed Mon, Wed, Fri
The Powerhouse Science Center in Durango is an interactive museum for children of all ages. Located inside of a renovated 1893 powerhouse, the museum has become a staple in the community due to its dedication towards and effectiveness in teaching scientific principles.
There are regular programs aimed towards helping children in the community to become more scientifically literate, and the museum hosts traveling exhibits that educate about history and current findings in science. Examples of past exhibits include:
- Learning how ancient and modern cultures use science to address current problems
- Discovering how different everyday technologies work, such as bicycles
- Educating about the impact of female inventors
- Powerhouse Science Center also hosts “Tiny Tuesdays,” a weekly event that allows parents and preschoolers to come together and interact with special books, sensory tables, activities and more
Durango Wildlife Museum
- Address: 151 E 16th St, Durango, CO
- Distance from Gable House Inn: 1.1 miles
Visitors who love learning about wildlife would do well to stop by the Durango Wildlife Museum during their stay. While the museum may be small, the staff has extensive knowledge about the wildlife in the region. They are known for being able to make learning about nature fun, especially for children. Admission is free and donations are welcomed.
The museum is also next door to the Durango Fish Hatchery, the oldest state-owned hatchery in Colorado. This cold water facility raises and stocks fish for Southwest Colorado, including:
- Rainbow trout
- Cutthroat, native, and Snake River trout
- Kokanee salmon
For a quarter, visitors can purchase food to feed the fish in the pond onsite.
Durango Train Museum
The Durango Train Museum is one of Durango's most popular attractions showcasing our unique history. You can walk to the Durango Train Museum from the Gable House Inn and its free!
Discover the Durango Train Museum
The Durango Train Museum is a free attraction in downtown Durango that is within walking distance from the Gable House Inn. Explore the history of railroading, transportation, and mining with people from around the world - there's even a dinosaur skeleton!
The model train display is large and detailed and is a fan favorite. Be sure to add the Durango Train Museum to your Durango vacation itinerary.
Free Things to Do in Durango
The Durango Train Museum is one of the best free attractions in town. The museum is located behind the Durango Train Station and is within walking distance of the Gable House Inn.
Relax at Gable House Inn
Staying at the Gable House Inn allows you to experience the quality and warmth of a true Durango bed & breakfast. Our Victorian home is equipped with antique furnishings and modern amenities, allowing you to get the relaxation you deserve in our quiet neighborhood.
