Quick Info
Best areas: Downtown for walkability, north Durango for chain hotels. Pricing: More affordable than ski resorts on I-70. Peak seasons: Summer (train season), ski season, holidays. Book ahead: Summer weekends and holiday periods fill early.
Durango offers a range of lodging from historic downtown hotels to practical chains along the highway. Unlike purpose-built ski resorts, this is a real town with varied options. Most visitors choose between downtown character and highway convenience.
For Purgatory skiing, you can stay at the mountain or in Durango. Most opt for Durango—better restaurants, more to do, and only a 35-minute drive to the slopes.
Downtown Hotels
Strater Hotel: The historic landmark. A Victorian showpiece from 1887, beautifully restored with period details. Walk to everything downtown. The Diamond Belle Saloon downstairs is a destination itself. Durango's most iconic lodging.
General Palmer Hotel: Another Victorian gem across from the train depot. Elegant rooms, personalized service, and convenient for train departures. Quieter than the Strater, equally charming.
Rochester Hotel: Boutique property on Main Avenue. Movie-themed rooms (Durango was a Hollywood filming location), complimentary breakfast, and central location. Quirky and comfortable.
DoubleTree by Hilton: Modern full-service hotel near downtown. Less character than historic options but reliable quality, pool, and contemporary amenities.
Highway Hotels
North Main Avenue (Highway 550) has the usual chains: Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, Best Western, and more. These offer practical lodging at lower prices than downtown, with easy parking and familiar amenities.
Best for: Budget travelers, families needing space, those arriving late or leaving early. Less walkable but functional.
Purgatory Lodging
Ski-in/ski-out options exist at Purgatory Resort. The mountain village has condos and limited hotel rooms. Convenient for maximizing ski time but fewer dining and entertainment options than Durango.
Consider Purgatory if: You want to ski every possible minute, traveling with young kids in ski school, or prefer to avoid the daily commute.
Vacation Rentals
Cabins, condos, and houses throughout the Animas Valley offer more space for families and groups. Some have mountain views, hot tubs, and full kitchens. Book through standard vacation rental platforms.
Location matters: Properties between Durango and Purgatory can be remote. Check distances to town and the ski area before booking.
Tips
Book summer weekends early. Train season (May-October) fills downtown hotels. The narrow gauge railroad draws significant crowds.
Downtown is worth the premium. Walking to restaurants and breweries adds value. You won't need your car once parked.
Holiday rates spike. Christmas week, spring break, and holiday weekends see peak pricing. Book months ahead and expect higher rates.
Off-season deals. November (before ski season) and April (after) offer lower rates and availability. Weather can be variable but savings are real.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stay downtown or at Purgatory?
Downtown for most visitors. Better restaurants, nightlife, and the train depot. Purgatory only if you want ski-in/ski-out convenience above all else.
How expensive is lodging?
More affordable than Vail or Telluride. Expect $150-250/night for mid-range hotels in season. Historic downtown properties run $200-350. Budget chains from $100.
Is parking difficult downtown?
Most downtown hotels offer parking. Street parking can be competitive during busy periods. Not as tight as some mountain towns.
Best hotel for train travelers?
General Palmer or Strater—both are steps from the train depot. Perfect for early morning departures or watching evening arrivals.
When is the best time to find deals?
November (before ski season), April (after ski closes), and midweek year-round. Summer weekends and holidays are peak pricing.