Plan Your Visit
Come for the Songs. Stay for the Mountains.
The San Juan Songwriters Festival is designed to be experienced beyond the stage.
Spend your days exploring historic downtown Durango, mountain trails, and the rugged landscapes that inspire the music.
By evening, settle into our intimate venues for stories and songs you’ll remember long after the weekend ends.
WHERE TO STAY
We encourage guests to stay downtown whenever possible to enjoy the walkable nature of the festival.
The Strater Hotel Durango*
Experience 88 unique guest rooms featuring Victorian furnishings and authentic period decor. A true Durango landmark, and home of the Diamond Belle Saloon venue.
General Palmer Hotel
Built in 1898, this family-owned boutique hotel pairs historic character with luxury comfort in the heart of downtown.
Doubletree Hotel
Located on the banks of the Animas River, within easy walking distance of downtown and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Sky Ute Casino*
Enjoy a full resort experience, including slots, Seven Rivers Steaks, and Rolling Thunder Lane, just a short drive from the main action.
GETTING HERE
Flying
The Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is the closest hub.
American Airlines offers direct flights from DFW (Dallas) and PHX (Phoenix).
United Airlines offers daily connections through Denver.
Driving
Durango is one of the most scenic drives in the American Southwest:
From Albuquerque: 216 miles
From Santa Fe: 212 miles
From Denver: 337 miles
From Phoenix: 441 miles
Local Transportation
Once you’re here, downtown is highly walkable. For exploring further:
Rental Cars: Available at the airport.
Adventure Rentals: Check out Durango Jeep Rentals for mountain excursions.
Getting Around: Local bike rentals are available for cruising the Animas River Trail.
Parking
Public parking is available throughout downtown Durango, including street parking and public lots within walking distance of festival venues.
The Harley-Davidson showroom has free parking, yet we still encourage rideshares for these performances.
Some hotels may allow guests to leave vehicles parked throughout the weekend.
BETWEEN SETS
Historic Downtown
Nestled beneath the San Juan Mountains, downtown Durango blends Western heritage with a modern arts and dining culture. Between songwriter rounds, wander through independent shops, galleries, and cocktail bars.
Dining & Cocktails
Durango’s food scene punches well above its weight. Enjoy a quick bite at the Diamond Belle or Lola’s between sets, or book a table for a memorable dinner before the headliner shows. From mountain-town coffee shops to craft breweries and elevated Southwestern cuisine, everything is within walking distance.
Outdoor Adventure
Many guests extend their stay to experience the region’s natural beauty. Popular activities include:
The Animas River: Ideal for fly fishing, rafting, or a stroll on the River Trail.
The Trails: World-class hiking and mountain biking are just minutes from downtown.
*Durango Hot Springs: The perfect way to soak away the day.
Arts, Culture and History
Durango’s creative spirit extends far beyond the festival stage. Explore the galleries and landmarks that reflect the heritage of Southwest Colorado.
Art Galleries & Studios: Walk Main Avenue to discover spots like the Durango Arts Center, Sorrel Sky Gallery, and Studio & Gallery, featuring everything from contemporary local work to traditional Native American art.
Public Art: Keep an eye out for the city's murals and sculptures—there are over 150 pieces of public art tucked into our streetscapes.
Museums & Exhibits: Visit the Animas Museum, housed in a 1904 school building, for a deep dive into local Wild West history.
The Railroad District: Even if you aren't riding the train, the D&SNG Railroad Museum offers an incredible look at the steam engines that built this town.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad *
If this is your first visit, a journey on the train is a must. This National Historic Landmark has been in continuous operation since 1882. Traveling through the rugged San Juan National Forest behind a historic steam engine is a bucket-list experience.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Mountain Weather
Durango in late September is stunning, but the weather can shift quickly.
Daytime: Highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s.
Evening: Temperatures can drop into the 40s.
Advice: Pack layers! A light jacket, flannel, or vest is essential for when the sun goes down.
Altitude & Hydration
Durango sits at 6,500 feet.
If you are arriving from sea level, water is your best friend.
Stay hydrated and give yourself a day to acclimate before doing heavy hiking.
Listening Room Etiquette
Our festival celebrates the craft of songwriting. Many of our venues are intimate "listening rooms." To ensure the best experience for everyone:
Please silence phones during performances.
Keep conversations outside the venue rooms.
Be mindful of photography—we want you to be present!
Walking Shoes
Downtown Durango is highly walkable, and many guests will move between venues throughout the day and evening. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly encouraged.
Make comfort just as important as style.
*SUPPORT LOCAL DURANGO BUSINESSES!
The San Juan Songwriters Festival proudly partners with local businesses, venues, nonprofits, artists, and hospitality organizations that help make this experience possible.
A (*) beside a name in the material above means that the organization is partnering with us to produce this amazing event.
Help us “Support Local”!