It’s that time of year again: Time to figure out how to show your special someone just how special they are. Or, if you’re more jaded, it’s that time of year when you feel pressure to live up to some standard of a Hallmark-card holiday. Either way, if you’re looking for things to do in Durango for Valentine’s Day, look no further. We have a list of suggestions that will please the super-sappy romantics — wine and chocolate, anyone? — and ideas for the casual couples who like to spend Valentine’s Day like any other night: getting a quick bite and a good beer.
Sweets for the Sweet
Chocolate is almost cliché on Valentine’s Day, but who’s complaining? If you want to treat your sweetheart to some of her or his favorite sweets, try taking them on a “Sweet Treat Tour” of Durango. Start off at Durango’s local chocolatier, the Animas Chocolate Company. They make a wide variety of artisanal chocolates, their own special blend of hot cocoa and sometimes offer special-event tastings, so keep an eye out for any Valentine’s Day events. Next, check out Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. The company has stores all over the U.S. and in Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, the Philippines and other international locations, but did you know it was founded and still maintains its headquarter in Durango? The downtown Durango location has a wide variety of Valentine’s Day chocolate gifts, including the classic, red, heart-shaped box of chocolates. Next, walk down the block to check out Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory, a candy store that will speak to every kid at heart with its magical, Willy Wonka-esque candy bins. The store is packed with every imaginable type of candy and also offers homemade chocolate and fudge.
Red, Red Wine
For years, doctors have said wine is good for the heart, but it doesn’t take a medical professional to know it’s also good for matters of the heart. Durango is home to Four Leaves Winery, a downtown Durango staple known for its custom blends and varietals. Four Leaves Winery imports the highest quality grapes from around the world then crushes, ferments and blends all their wines onsite. If you’re feeling really fancy, it would be an amazing date to sign up for Four Leaves’ “Make Your Own Wine” experience using the winery’s state-of-the-art wine-making equipment and under the guidance of Four Leaves’ winemakers who will help you customize a blend to your own palate. The Quality Inn Durango is also partnering with Four Leaves Winery for our Valentine’s Day “Romance Package,” which provides our guests with a free bottle of Four Leaves wine with any stay during the month of February. You must make reservations via phone, so call the Durango Quality Inn at 970-317-2857 today!
Romance on the Rails Brunch Train
Looking for something unique to do for Valentine’s Day this year? How about brunch? No, a brunch date is not terribly unique, but it is when it’s aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The Durango train is offering its “Romance on the Rails Brunch Train” Saturday, Feb. 11 — a special-event train that sold out last year. Guests will board historic, turn-of-the-century passenger cars and enjoy a day taking in the beautiful scenery of the Animas Valley and San Juan Mountains as the Durango train chugs to Cascade Canyon. All passengers who book premium-class cars will enjoy a morning brunch buffet, live music on the train, a special chocolate treat, a free glass of champagne or sparkling cider, and the ladies will also receive a beautiful, long-stem rose! Each Champagne Brunch Train car will have an attendant as well as tables or trays to use for food and beverage. Because the train will be offering alcohol, staff must ensure all passengers on the Romance on the Rails portion of the train are 21 years or older, so reservations must be made via phone and not online. Call 970-247-2733 or 1-877-872-4607 to make your reservation today!
Durango Breweries
Not every person will be wooed by wine and chocolate; some people prefer the bubbles of beer over bubbly champagne. Durango is a craft brewery haven, and taking a tasting tour to sip and sample at Durango breweries is a great date night idea. For something more casual, Ska Brewing will be hosting Super Ted’s Super Trivia Night on Valentine’s Day and will have two-for-one pint special. Or hit up Carver Brewing, Durango Brewing, Steamworks Brewing or Brew Pub & Kitchen for dinner and a draft.
Durango Quality Inn - 2930 Main Street, Durango, Co 81301 - (970) 259-5373 - gm.co405@choicehotels.com 