Nestled between the golden glow of autumn and the excitement of the holiday season, November is an ideal time for rest, exploration, and connection in Durango. Whether you’re seeking a unique destination for your Thanksgiving celebrations or you’d simply like to experience Durango’s historic charm and stunning natural beauty, The Leland House offers the perfect home base. Read on to learn about some of the highlights of visiting at this time of year.
The Slopes Come Alive: Purgatory Resort Opens November 22
For winter sports enthusiasts, November marks the beginning of the season as nearby ski resorts open their trails to skiers and snowboarders. Purgatory Resort—located just a half hour from The Leland House—is planning to open on November 22, 2025. With 85 trails spanning more than 40 miles across the stunning San Juan Mountains, Purgatory offers an adventure for every skill level, from first-time skiers to seasoned experts.
At The Leland House, our team of Durango locals has deep connections throughout the community and can help you make the most of your time on the mountain. Let us assist with equipment rentals, lift tickets, and local recommendations so you can skip the lines and head straight for the slopes!
All Aboard the Polar Express Train Ride
For those craving a touch of holiday magic, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s immensely popular Polar Express™ Train Ride returns from November 21, 2025 through January 3, 2026. Departing from the Durango Depot (just a short walk from The Leland House), this immersive theatrical experience brings the beloved story by Chris Van Allsburg to life.
Climb aboard a vintage steam train bound for the North Pole, where you’ll sip hot chocolate, enjoy sweet treats, and listen to a reading of The Polar Express before arriving at a dazzling holiday light display. On the return trip, Santa himself will board the train to deliver the first gift of Christmas to every passenger. It’s a can’t-miss tradition for families and holiday lovers of all ages—so be sure to book early for your preferred dates and seating!
The Perfect Hub for Family Gatherings and Holiday Parties
As the holidays approach, November is also the time to plan your family gatherings, company parties, and
other celebrations. With spacious suites featuring kitchens or kitchenettes, flexible room-block options, and even the ability to rent out the entire hotel, The Leland House offers the ideal setting for a home-away-from-home celebration.
Our neighboring sister property, Lola’s Place, provides a welcoming venue for private, semi-private, or public events. With shorter restaurant hours at this time of year, the space can easily be reserved for your special occasion. Groups can choose from Lola’s mouthwatering menu of authentic Mexican flavors, or bring in an outside caterer for added flexibility. In addition, we are thrilled to introduce “Gather,” our brand-new flex space for events such as yoga classes or creative workshops. With the launch of this welcoming space, there are even more ways to make your event your own.
Settle in for a Longer Stay
November’s slower pace makes it the perfect month for an extended escape. Whether you’re visiting for a week of remote work, a peaceful pre-holiday getaway, or a family trip, you’ll find everything you need to feel at home at The Leland House. Our guests enjoy fully equipped suites, complimentary access to R Space co-working across the street, and a range of amenities including free on-site parking with EV charging—plus the personalized service of a local team that loves helping visitors experience the best of Durango.
November Specials: Stay Longer, Save More
To help you make the most of your time in Durango, we are pleased to announce two great limited-time specials:
- Save 30% on all stays at The Leland House through November 30, 2025
- Flash Sale: Stay 3 nights with the 30% discount AND get your 4th night FREE when you book stays between November 14–30!
Ready to Plan Your Durango Escape?
Book your stay online or by calling (970) 385-1920, and be sure to ask about our current specials!
