There are two types of people in this world: Those who go out on New Year’s Eve, and those who don’t. Oversimplification? Sure, but sums it up pretty nicely, no? Extroverts vs. introverts, homebodies vs. party animals — you get the gist.
For those who don’t want to miss all the action, there are plenty of things to do in Durango on New Year’s Eve. And for those who want to stay home, warm and cozy to watch the ball drop, there’s plenty to in Durango on New Year’s Day.
Purgatory Resort
Purgatory Resort knows how to party on New Year’s Eve. The resort is offering several New Year’s Eve dining options, including a New Year’s Eve dinner at Hoody’s; pizza at Paradise Pizzeria along with all the New York City New Year’s festivities on the big screen; and extended dining and bar hours at Purgy’s, where the party will continue with Durango bluegrass band The Outskirts playing until 1 a.m.
For something super duper special, you can also reserve a spot for the Snowcat dinner. Ride in a Snowcat from the base area to Powderhouse Restaurant to enjoy a five-course dinner with wine pairings.
Purgatory’s signature NYE event, though, is the torchlight parade and fireworks show. The resort’s entire ski school lights up the slopes as they ski down the mountain carrying torchlights. When the parade arrives at the base area, it’s time to light up the sky with a fireworks show!
After the fireworks, catch another show: the New Year’s Eve Night Rail Jam. The area’s best talent will showcase their skills under the lights at DC terrain park.
On both New Year’s Eve afternoon and again on New Year’s Day, guests can also take a Snowcat tour — sans dinner but plus hot cocoa and sweeping views.
The best part? Purgatory is offering a free shuttle to and from Durango daily during select times from 9:30 a.m. to 5:10 p.m. through Jan. 7. The resort shuttle will run from Purgatory Plaza to the heart of downtown Durango and from downtown Durango to Purgatory.
Strater Hotel Dinner and Music
Mahogany Grill located in the Strater Hotel is something of an institution when it comes to holiday dinners, and New Year’s Eve is no exception, except for the exceptional holiday spread the restaurant will be serving from 5-9 p.m.
After you’ve had your fill, simply walks a few steps to Diamond Belle Saloon or the The Office Spiritorium, both located in the hotel, for a drink (or two or more) and some live music.
New Year’s Day Brunch Train
Hop aboard the Durango train to enjoy the New Year’s Day Brunch Train. The Durango & Silverton steam-powered train will huff and puff along the rails as passengers enjoy a hot brunch buffet, live music and winter-white scenery sliding past the windows. Premium Class tickets include a catered hot brunch that features a yogurt bar, Belgian waffles, skillet scrambles and plenty more as well as free non-alcoholic drinks and live music. Standard class tickets don’t include brunch, but passengers will have access to the concession car.
During a 45-minute stop at Cascade Canyon wye, passengers can disembark to take a stroll to the footbridge and then warm up by the stone fireplace — or they can choose to stay warm and comfy in their cars.
Durango Hotels
If you’re looking for Durango hotels for your long New Year’s weekend in Durango, stay with us at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Durango near downtown Durango. We’re located on Main Avenue, just a few blocks from the hub of downtown, and Purgatory is a straight shot north of us. Warm up by the fireplace in our newly renovated lobby! Book your holiday stay with the Econo Lodge Durango today.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites 