As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer travel adventures are just around the corner. Featuring moderately warm days and refreshingly cool nights, summer is the ideal time for experiencing Durango’s abundant natural beauty, outdoor activities, and relaxed small-town charm.
At The Leland House and Lola’s Place, we’re always excited to share the best of Durango with our guests. With a prime downtown location and plenty of activities on the Lola’s Place patio during the warmer months, our boutique hotel is the perfect home base for your summer vacation.
Discover Durango’s Outdoor Adventures
Situated at the intersection of lush mountain forests to the north and open desert landscapes to the south, Durango’s natural surroundings provide endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Just a short walk from The Leland House, you’ll find the scenic Animas River Trail, a 20-mile pathway perfect for biking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll. Along the way, stop to enjoy a picnic lunch, or even take a refreshing dip in the river.
Seeking a more adventurous option? Embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Animas River, or take to the skies with a zipline tour for a bird’s-eye view of the landscape. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore Durango’s world-class trails, while hikers will enjoy venturing into the nearby San Juan National Forest.
For a more relaxed experience, hop aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR). This scenic train ride—which departs from the Durango Depot, just a short walk from The Leland House—offers breathtaking views as it winds through tree-lined mountain canyons. From the special Cascade Canyon Express during the summer to the magical Polar Express Train Ride during the holiday season, the D&SNGRR provides an iconic Colorado experience throughout the year.
Immerse Yourself in Local History and Culture
Established in the late 1800s, Durango’s historic downtown is the heart of the city’s cultural scene. From The Leland House—which was constructed in 1927 and embodies the vision of early Durango entrepreneurs—a diverse array of locally owned boutiques and art galleries are within easy walking distance. We are also located near the Durango Arts Center, which hosts rotating exhibits and performances throughout the year.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Animas Museum, housed in a restored 1904 school building, or a trip to the nearby Mesa Verde National Park, home to ancient cliff dwellings and rich Native American history.
After a day of exploration, return to The Leland House campus to relax on the patio at Lola’s Place. During the summer, we host regular live music nights and other events, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal, sip a handcrafted beverage, and immerse yourself in the heart of the local community.
Enjoy Summer Festivals and Events
As the city comes alive with the vibrant energy of summer, Durango’s calendar is packed with an exciting lineup of festivals and events, including:
- The Durango Farmers Market – Held every Saturday morning from the second week of May through the last Saturday in October, the Durango Farmers Market showcases fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music. At The
Leland House, all of our suites feature kitchens or kitchenettes—great for storing or preparing your farmers market finds! - Animas River Days – From May 31-June 1, 2025, amateur and professional athletes alike will showcase their skills with river surfing, stand-up paddling, freestyle kayaking, and other water sports. This annual event is fun for spectators too, with a River Festival and Viewing Party taking place at Santa Rita Park!
- Music in the Mountains – From July 10-August 3, 2025, Music in the Mountains will feature orchestra performances by world-renowned musicians at venues throughout the greater Durango area. This annual classical music festival encompasses over 40 events in less than four weeks, offering something for all types of music lovers.
- Durango Playfest – Another wonderful performing arts event, the 7th Annual Durango Playfest will bring emerging and established playwrights, well-known actors, and directors to Durango from June 24-29 to workshop new plays. Playwrights will have the opportunity to develop their works before holding captivating staged readings for local audiences.
- Durango Fiesta Days – Originating in 1935, Durango Fiesta Days is a week-long celebration of the city’s Western heritage, complete with rodeos, parades, and live performances. This event typically takes place each July—stay tuned for this year’s dates!
Plan Your Summer Stay at The Leland House
Whether you’re an Arizona, Texas, or Utah resident seeking respite from the sweltering heat, a city dweller craving a more relaxed pace and easy access to outdoor recreation, or a Durango local planning a staycation in the heart of town to enjoy the season’s many festivities, The Leland House offers a comfortable and conveniently located base for your summer adventures. With a wealth of local knowledge, our team can help you develop an itinerary curated for your schedule and interests, from suggesting the best lesser-known hiking trails to making reservations to keeping you informed about upcoming events. Contact us today to start planning your visit!
