Durango is one of the larger cities in Northern Mexico, sitting at an altitude of 1,800 meters (6,300 feet), and is home to almost 700,000 people. Buses and cabs are the main modes of transport here, though walking around is encouraged. Many of the beautiful buildings are over a century old, including Victoria Theater, a multitude of churches, and even some restaurants! There are also many other, newer places that are worth a visit as well. The city also offers amazing hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals that provide a relaxing stay. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, we’ve chosen the best things to do in Durango, Mexico just for you. Be sure to add them to your itinerary and check them out on your next trip here.
1. Explore the natural treasures of Cañon de Fernández State Park
Also called Parque Estatal Cañón de Fernández, Cañon de Fernández State Park is a beautiful, sprawling protected area that spans over 17,000 hectares (42,008 acres). Located in the Chihuahuan Desert and nestled right along the Nazas River, the park is a lush oasis with over 1,400 trees, including plenty of beautiful, centuries-old cypress trees. It is also a sanctuary for birds, being home to over 220 different species! If you’d like to take a breath of fresh air and escape the concrete jungle, you should definitely take a whole day to explore the wonders of nature at these protected wetlands.
Cañon de Fernández State Park
Address: Durango, Mexico
Opening hours: 9am - 8:40pm (daily)
2. Discover Durango's rich history and culture at Casa de Cultura Banamex
Discover the rich history and culture of Durango when you visit Casa de Cultura Banamex - Palace of the Conde del Valle. This place dates all the way back to the 1500s. Located just two blocks from Plaza de Armas and Cathedral, it is a great place to start if you want to discover the historical and architectural gems of Durango. Although you are free to explore the area on your own and take photographs, you can also opt to go on a guided tour of the complex and learn the stories behind these beautifully-preserved structures.
Casa de Cultura Banamex - Palace of the Conde del Valle de Súchil
Address: Avenida 5 de Febrero Ote, Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
3. Visit the entertaining Old West Walk
Looking for some good, clean fun on your next trip to Durango? You can enjoy all the action and charm of your favorite western films at Old West Walk! Also called Paseo del Viejo Oeste, this is a theme park designed to make you feel just like you’re on the set of an old Hollywood western film! You can enjoy some refreshing artisan beer, watch their highly entertaining mock production shows, and of course, go shopping for some fun souvenirs to remember your visit by.
Old West Walk (Paseo del Viejo Oeste)
Address: Puente Carretera a Parral Km 12, Durango 34000, Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 7am - 11pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 50 USD
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4. Spend a relaxing day at Morelos Garden
A great way to spend a relaxing day as a family or a couple in Durango would be at Morelos Garden. Located near the main avenues of the city center, the garden is very accessible and is close to lots of shopping and dining options. Despite being close to the busiest areas of the city, the garden itself is well-maintained, with a calm, quiet atmosphere and a wide variety of flowers blossoming all year round. The garden is an especially beautiful sight in the evening, as the glittering lights from the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus can be seen from here.
Morelos Garden
Address: Calle 5 de Febrero, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
5. Take your kids to the Interactive Museum of Durango Bebeleche
Who says museums must be stiff and not at all playful? At the Interactive Museum of Durango Bebeleche (or Museo Bebeleche), kids and kids-at-heart can have a ton of fun learning about the region. The museum features over 100 exhibits and displays on science and technology as well as culture and the arts. These are not only incredibly informative but also designed to be touched and tinkered with! The museum would be a great place to take your kids to on your next family trip to Durango, or simply a place to have some fun while learning about the history of the area.
The Interactive Museum of Durango Bebeleche
Address: Lic. Armando del Castillo Franco Km 1.5, Parque Sahuatoba, Lomas del Parque, 34100 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: The Interactive Museum of Durango Bebeleche
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
6. Look for fossils at Durango Museum of Archeology Ganot-Peschard
Being located within a desert, Durango is home to plenty of important archaeological finds. You can see and learn more about these at Durango Museum of Archeology Ganot-Peschard. Though somewhat modest in size, this place houses plenty of fascinating artifacts dating all the way to the Paleolithic era. The museum is also child-friendly, and kids can enjoy looking for “fossils”, complete with sand and pieces of bone and pottery that they can safely dig up!
Durango Museum of Archeology Ganot-Peschard
Address: Zaragoza 315, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
7. Check out Grutas del Rosario
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Grutas Del Rosario on Monday, May 2, 2011
Tucked away among the mountains, you will find Grutas del Rosario, one of Durango’s most prized natural treasures! To get to and from this grotto, you will need to climb over 200 steps, so this may not be the most suitable destination for those traveling with children or the elderly. Despite the moderate climb, the dream-like view the of rock formations within the grotto will surely be worth the effort. You will also be assigned a guide during your visit, so you won’t need to worry about a thing - simply take in all the wonders of this beautiful nature preserve.
Grutas del Rosario
Address: Vicente Nava, Lerdo, Durango, Mexico
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
8. Have a leisurely stroll at Parque Fundidora de Ferreria
Another excellent place to relax and enjoy a sunny day out in Durango is Parque Fundidora de Ferreria. Well-maintained and located somewhat further from the city center, the park is a great place to enjoy a leisurely walk with a loved one, go on an energizing run, or simply to have a quiet time on your own. If you visit the park on a Sunday, you can also opt to go on a guided tour of the park, learn more about its history, and see the beautiful gardens and rivers.
Parque Fundidora de Ferreria
Address: Domicilio conocido s/n, La Ferrería, 34302 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)
9. Explore La Michilia Biosphere Reserve
Just 75 km (46.6 mi) south of Durango and nestled right in the plateaus and hills that separate the Sierra Urica and the Sierra Michis mountain ranges is La Michilía Biosphere Reserve, one of Mexico’s protected natural areas. This place is home to numerous streams and lagoons as well as marshy meadows filled with Pine and Holm Oak. It is even said that the reserve houses some predatory animals like ocelots, wolves, black bears, eagles, and many others. You can explore this breathtaking reserve and see how nature thrives up close, but do remember to be a responsible visitor during your time here!
La Michilia Biosphere Reserve
Address: Alemán, Durango, Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
10. Enjoy sightseeing at Mirador de Los Remedios
If sightseeing is among your must-do activities in Durango, then you wouldn’t want to miss Mirador de Los Remedios. You can either take the cable car or walk up the two sets of stairs. You’ll enjoy awe-inspiring views of the city even as you climb, and especially when you get to the top of the hill. You can easily walk here as it is located close to the main plaza. When you get to the foot of the hill, stop for a lovely meal at one of the coffee shops in the area or look for some souvenirs in the small stores.
Mirador de Los Remedios
Address: Cerro de Los Remedios s/n, Los Remedios, 34100 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 10pm (closed on Mon)
11. Tour Museo Túnel de Minería
Learn more about Durango’s mining industry with a visit to Museo Túnel de Minería! Just as the name suggests, this fascinating underground museum is modeled after the underground mining tunnels of old, giving it a highly authentic feel. You can easily access the museum from Plaza de Armas. Just walk right in and follow the interesting and highly informative exhibits on your own, but you can also choose to go on a guided tour. Afterward, enjoy a delicious snack from one of the cafes and restaurants situated on either end of the tunnel.
Museo Túnel de Minería
Address: Calle Lic. Benito Juárez 313, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 9:30pm; Sun: 1pm - 9:30pm (closed on Mon)
12. Splash around Acuario's Palace
On your next family vacation to Durango, treat your loved ones to some summer fun at Acuario’s Palace! This aquatic park boasts themed attractions that both kids and kids-at-heart can enjoy. Your little ones will have plenty of fun with the park’s twisting slides, fountains, and spacious wading pools. Meanwhile, the older members of the family can enjoy the exciting wave pools or unwind in the hot tubs! In addition, the attractions are clean and well-maintained, and there are plenty of skilled and accommodating staff present, so you can enjoy your trip here without worry.
Acuario's Palace
Address: Blvrd Francisco Villa 1727, Cd Industrial, Guadalupe, 34209 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
13. See the exhibits at Museo de la Ciudad 450
Museo de la Ciudad 450 features a rich collection of artifacts that tell the story of the region from pre-Hispanic times to the present. Through their highly interactive exhibits, you can learn much about Durango’s industries, culture, and traditions. One particularly fascinating exhibit is the section dedicated to the state’s role in the western film industry, which showcases over a hundred blockbuster films that have been around the city, including Zorro (1997) and Texas Rising (2014), to name a few.
Museo de la Ciudad 450
Address: Av 20 de Noviembre, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
14. Shop and dine at Constitution Street
Lined with beautiful, old-style structures, you’ll find just about everything to enjoy at the historic Constitution Street. In addition to the eye-catching architecture, you can enjoy some good eats at the cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops that line the walkway, or have a drink or two at the local bars. If you’re looking for souvenirs or simply want to bring home some interesting finds, you can check out the handicraft shops and stores scattered across the area. On weekends, you can even stay to watch some entertaining, family-friendly shows that are regularly set up for tourists and locals.
15. Cross Ojuela Bridge
Feeling a little adventurous? Get that adrenaline rush you’re looking for at Ojuela Bridge! Also called Mapimi Bridge, this is a suspension bridge located right at the site of Ojuela Goldmine. It was designed by Wilhelm Hildenbrand as a prototype for the famed Golden Gate Bridge and first opened in 1898. Nowadays, the bridge is a popular spot for thrill-seekers, with breathtaking views and exciting zip lines! You can even take your visit further by exploring the nearby abandoned mining town. Truly, the bridge is a must-see for anyone looking for some adventure in Durango.
16. Visit Hacienda de la Loma
Built in 1821, Hacienda de la Loma is a heritage home that was once owned by two farmers, Jose and Gracian Garde. Don’t let its humble beginnings fool you, though - the home actually boasts a colorful history, having served as an important passageway at various points in Mexican history, including the Mexican Revolution. Though it is not perfectly preserved and has shown some signs of deterioration, there have been numerous efforts in recent years to restore it to its former glory. Nonetheless, this place is definitely worth a visit, especially for history buffs!
Hacienda de la Loma
Address: Gómez Palacio - Cuencamé 1014, La Loma, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 3pm (closed on Mon)
17. See wild cats at Zoologico Sahuatoba
Sahuatoba Park (or Zoologico Sahuatoba) is the second-largest zoo in the city of Durango, covering over 67 hectares (165 acres)! The zoo is home to wild cats like lions, jaguars, and tigers, as well as other animals like snakes, monkeys, eagles, and more. However, in addition to the zoo, guests can also stay active on the park’s running track and try out some of their outdoor exercise equipment. You can also go on a lovely boat ride by the artificial lake or simply take a stroll around their many green areas.
Zoologico Sahuatoba
Address: Guadiana S/N, Parque Sahuatoba, Lomas del Parque, 34100 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
18. Enjoy outdoor activities at El Tecuán Park
Another excellent place to enjoy outdoor activities in Durango is El Tecuán Park. Located about 50 km (31 mi) from the city of Durango, the park is easily accessible. Here, you can set up a lovely picnic or barbecue. If you are traveling with kids, there are also a good number of playgrounds and basketball courts where they can play and have fun. If you wish to stay a little longer, you can hike along their marked trails, go sightseeing, or even rent a cabin. El Tecuán Park is a great place to enjoy some family fun. However, note that pets are not allowed here, so you will have to leave your furry friends at home.
El Tecuán Park
Address: Carretera Durango Mazatlan, Durango Mexico
19. Trek at El Espinazo del Diablo
Loosely translating to “The Devil’s Backbone”, El Espinazo del Diablo gets its name for its hairpins, tight curves, and zigzags. Despite its ominous name, it is quite safe and well-maintained, with plenty of cautionary signs around the area. Plenty of visitors enjoy trekking along the road because it not only offers a nice challenge but also breathtaking views. After all, the entire road is over 2,000 m (6,561.7 ft) above sea level!
20. Breathe in fresh air at Santiago Bayacora Dam
Keep calm and stay cool during the summer months by visiting Santiago Bayacora Dam! Situated within the town of Santiago Bayacora, the dam is a breath of fresh air in Durango and is where you can enjoy plenty of outdoor and water-related activities. You can see the breathtaking waterfalls and take plenty of pictures. While here, try your hand at boating or fishing. Of course, you can also go on a leisurely paddle down the lake and simply take in the natural beauty of the area.
21. See the captivating Cascada El Saltito
Cascada El Saltito is one of the most captivating natural features of Durango. The water descends 30 m (100 ft) in 3 places and has carved out some interesting rock formations. The view from the platform shows you the full glory of the picture-perfect cascades. You can visit the area downstream and see interesting trees and square rocks. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can climb the rocks alongside the falls. However, please do exercise caution here and don’t forget to bring your own food as there are few restaurants nearby when you go to this marvelous place.
Cascada El Saltito
Address: Esta en Nombre de Dios, 53 km al sureste de la ciudad de Durango por la carretera 45, Durango 34986 Mexico
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
22. Dine at Fonda de la Tía Chona
En Fonda de la Tía Chona, compartimos momentos que se traducen en felicidad y amor por la comida. VISÍTANOS EN Nogal 110, Barrio del Calvario: 618 811 7748 #FondadelaTíaChona #MesDeOctubre #Tradición
Posted by Fonda de la Tía Chona on Monday, 21 October 2019
If fine dining is what you want to enjoy for your next meal, Fonda de la Tía Chona is a great place for you! Nestled in a historic house, the restaurant shows off its interiors, which is adorned with all kinds of antique furniture, elaborate light fixtures, and high-quality tableware. The food itself is top-notch, offering all courses from appetizers all the way to dessert and drinks. Some of the dishes worth trying include favorites like tortillas, steaks, and their signature chocolate cake. The candlelight dining also makes this a great place for a romantic dinner.
Fonda de la Tía Chona
Address: Calle Nogal 110, Barrio del Calvario, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Fonda de la Tia Chona
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 5pm - 11:30pm; Sun: 1pm - 5:30pm (closed on Mon)
23. Drink and dance at Sunset Bar Durango
Posted by Sunset Bar Durango on Monday, 20 January 2020
Sunset Bar is one of the most active clubs in town and is a hot spot for young locals. It is modeled after a beach hut and has the ambiance of one too, which is great for enjoying music. Spicy wings, fries, and iced tea are some of the most requested food items here. The drinks themselves are also plenty, from martinis and Bacardi all the way to stronger stuff like vodka and whiskey. There is, of course, an endless supply of Corona, the most popular beer in the region. The club regularly hosts events, from local DJs to more high-profile entertainers from across the country. The party never really stops here, and it is definitely worth a visit after a long day in town.
Sunset Bar Durango
Address: Calle Aquiles Serdan 502, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Sunset Bar Durango
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 6pm - 3am (closed from Sun - Thu)
24. Check out XAMICALLI
Xamicalli is one of the hottest places in town to visit at night, and there are many locals who can attest to that. The name itself translates to “Adobe house” which is what the building is. The interiors are a mix of old-world furniture and modern electronic lights and sounds, giving an environment that people in the past could only dream of. Drinks are plentiful, and the bartender can serve some unique house blends just for you. DJs and loud music make sure that you and all the other guests enjoy the night.
Xamicalli
Address: Hidalgo #320 Centro Histórico Durango Hidalgo 320, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Mexico
Website: Xamicalli
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 7pm - 3am (closed from Sun - Wed)
25. Play golf at Campestre Gómez Palacio
Posted by Club Campestre de Gómez Palacio on Thursday, 23 May 2013
Campestre Gómez Palacio is the second-oldest golf course in the city, having opened over 70 years ago. Situated at the foot of a historic hill, the golf course is a full 18-hole course, which gives you the complete golf experience. You can rent all the equipment you need here: clubs, golf carts, and even hire your own caddy. There are regular tournaments you can join if you have enough confidence in your abilities. An outdoor pool and a clubhouse provide a place to relax after you’ve finished.
Campestre Gómez Palacio
Address: Atenas 650, El 28 de Noviembre, Gómez Palacio, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Club Campestre Gomez Palacio
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 6am - 10pm (closed on Sat)
26. Go bowling at Bowl 2000
#JuevesDBoliche #Amigos #RetaMensual #Pollitos #EchenleGanas Ganador ?
Posted by Omar W Torres Guerrero on Thursday, 9 January 2020
Located in the middle of a shopping complex downtown, Bowl 2000 is a great way to spend the evening with your family and friends. With 14 lanes dedicated to non-stop bowling, you won’t need to wait in line for your turn. A scoreboard above each lane allows you to keep track of how dominant you already are. There are tournaments here that you can participate in. Snacks are available if you want to take a break or wrap up your game. You can also go out and dine in one of the nearby restaurants or visit the shops afterward.
Bowl 2000
Address: Blvrd Francisco Villa Km. 1, Máximo Gámiz, 34230 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Bowl 2000
Opening hours: 4:30pm - 12am (daily)
27. Shop at Paseo Durango
If you want to shop for some of the latest items and trends while in Mexico, this mall is for you! Built back in 2007, the mall serves the ever-changing shopping needs of Durango’s citizens. There are over 100 shops, from electronics depots to fashion boutiques. A food court is also present, with plenty of choices for when you get hungry. There are many events held here, in the central activity center, and you’ll probably be able to attend one. Parking is aplenty, so you won’t have to worry about a place for your car.
Paseo Durango
Address: Blvd. Felipe Pescador 1401, La Esperanza, 34080 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Paseo Durango
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sun: 10am - 9pm
28. Catch a show at Teatro Victoria
Posted by Teatro Victoria on Monday, 27 November 2017
With an Italian-inspired design and well over 200 years old, Teatro Victoria in Durango is one of the oldest structures in the city. It served as a theater for performing arts most of its life, except for some parts of the 20th century, where it was used exclusively as a movie theater. Today, it once again serves as a performance theater and is host to a good number of shows. The exterior is made with stone and brick and stands four stories tall. The main hall has a four-level layout, all with comfortable and plush seating. Everything is laid out in a compressed oval to make sure you will always have a good view of the stage for any type of performance. Don’t forget to check their calendar so you don’t miss out.
Teatro Victoria
Address: Calle Bruno Martínez 322, Zona Centro, 34000 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
29. Indulge in a treatment at Loan Spa
Está comprobado que 50 minutos de masaje en el cuello y en la espalda son suficiente para disminuir la depresión, bajar el nivel de estrés y reforzar el sistema inmunológico.
Posted by Loan SPA on Wednesday, 17 June 2015
Are you looking to relax after a tiring day around town? Going to a spa is a good way to unwind, and Loan Spa is a popular choice around here. The spa offers all kinds of therapy options, including foot, back, and facial massages, depending on how you would like to relax. There are even aromatherapy options if that is what you’d prefer. There are even slimming treatments available but do consult with the doctors before you proceed. You can even avail of a premium spa service, complete with a food cart and music to make your stay that much better.
Loan Spa
Address: Cessna 110, Francisco Sarabia, 34214 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
Website: Loan Spa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4pm - 8pm; Sat: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
30. Watch a football game at Francisco Zarco Stadium
Posted by Oscar Hinojosa on Saturday, 13 July 2019
Football is a popular sport in Mexico, and Durango has a stadium of its own: Francisco Zarco Stadium. Named after a prolific local politician and writer, the stadium serves as home to the city’s two football teams. The stadium can seat around 18,000 spectators who are all ready to cheer for the home team. It fills up quickly and gets lively when games are on, so be sure to arrive early. There is a baseball park and a mall nearby, so you can enjoy more activities once the game is done.
Francisco Zarco Stadium
Address: Avenida Universidad 501, SARH, 34113 Durango, Dgo., Mexico
History and modernity meet at Durango
Durango features plenty of history and modernity, with old churches and houses standing side by side with newer malls and clubs. The food and leisure are also plenty and rich, bringing the best of Mexican culture. All in all, Durango is an excellent choice for your next vacation.
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