Animas Museum: A Window to La Plata County's Past
Discover Durango's heritage at the Animas Museum, where local history comes alive in a beautifully preserved 1904 schoolhouse.
The Animas Museum, operated by the La Plata County Historical Society, is a charming local history museum located in Durango, Colorado. The museum resides in the historic Animas City School building, constructed in 1904-1905. This sandstone building served as a school until 1967 and was the first structure placed on Durango's Historic Register in 1992. The museum's exhibits offer a broad overview of the La Plata County area, including early Colorado schools, Native Americans, the Old West, fires, railroads, transportation, and lifeways. Displays include a restored 1905 classroom, stories of local Wild West characters, and a Native American gallery. The museum also functions as a research library with a photo archive and historical literature. Online exhibits are also available. The La Plata County Historical Society's mission is to preserve the county's history and culture for future generations. The museum hosts events, educational programs, and lectures.
Local tips
- Check the Animas Museum website for special events, temporary exhibits, and online programs before your visit.
- Allow at least an hour to fully explore the museum's exhibits and displays.
- Consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
A brief summary to Animas Museum
- 3065 W 2nd Ave, Durango, Colorado, 81301, US
- +1970-259-2402
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 1 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Durango, head west on Main Avenue, then turn left onto W 2nd Ave. The museum is located at 3065 W 2nd Ave, about a 25-minute walk from downtown.
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Public Transport
Durango Transit Route 1 operates from downtown Durango. Get off at the stop closest to W 2nd Ave, from where it is a short walk (about 5-10 minutes) west to the Animas Museum. A single fare costs $2.
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Car
From downtown Durango, drive west on Main Avenue (U.S. Highway 550) for about 1.5 miles. Turn left onto W 2nd Ave and continue for approximately 0.5 miles. The Animas Museum is at 3065 W 2nd Ave. On-site parking is available.
