Durango's BEST Downtown Hotel? (Residence Inn Review!)
Durango's Downtown Gem: A Rambling, Real-Life Review of the Residence Inn! (And Why You Should Book NOW!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups. This isn't your average, sterile hotel review. This is a real person, spilling the beans (and probably some leftover coffee from the excellent breakfast buffet) about the Residence Inn in downtown Durango. SEO be damned, I'm gonna give you the honest truth, the good, the bad, and the slightly-sticky-from-the-pool-side-bar.
First Impressions & Accessibility Fiascos (and Triumphs!)
Okay, so the Residence Inn? Right smack dab in the heart of Durango. Boom. Prime location. You’re practically tripping over shops, restaurants, and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (more on that later!). Accessibility: This is where things get interesting. Overall, a big thumbs up! The entrance is pretty straightforward, the elevator is spacious and easy to navigate, and the hallways are wide. (Important for my friend who uses a wheelchair; we’re always scouting this stuff out.) They've actually thought about accessibility, unlike some places where you're fighting for your life to get through a bathroom door. The lobby and common areas are also nicely laid out and easy to move around in. BUT… and there's always a but, right? Some of the doorways to the pool area were a bit tight. Minor, but still something to note. Wheelchair accessible? Absolutely, for the most part, definitely check for specific room details when booking. Good? Yes. Perfect? Almost.
My first thought? The lobby was… bright. Like, seriously, sun-drenched! And the staff? Super friendly, borderline overly cheerful. I'm a cynic, so I was bracing myself for the forced smiles, but they were genuinely helpful. Check-in was quick and painless, thanks to contactless check-in/out. Always a win in these post-pandemic times! Daily housekeeping: Yes, thankfully. Because I need that fresh-towel-and-bed-made vibe.
Rooms: My Sanctuary (and Occasional Mess)
We got a suite (because we were feeling fancy), and let me tell you, it was spacious. Seriously, the size of my tiny apartment. And the air conditioning? Thank the heavens! Durango gets HOT in the summer. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yeah, it WORKED. And I’m talking good, reliable Wi-Fi, perfect for streaming (which, let’s be honest, is a major hotel amenity). The desk area was actually usable, which is a rarity in hotels! Extra long bed? Check. I’m a tall gal, and I didn’t have my feet hanging off the edge. Bliss. Internet access – LAN? I didn't even check. Who uses LAN anymore? Air conditioning in all rooms?: Duh!
Here's a confession: I left a mountain of clothes on the floor. (Don't judge me. I'm on vacation!) Daily housekeeping was a lifesaver, rescuing me from my own disorganization. And the blackout curtains? Oh, glorious, sleep-inducing blackout curtains! The only downside? The bathroom lighting. A bit harsh, but hey, at least I could see the flaws in my face… which, after a long day of adventuring, there were quite a few. Interconnecting room(s) available: Great if you're traveling with a family, but be warned – you might hear the kids next door!
Food, Glorious Food! (And the Breakfast Buffet Saga)
Okay, let's talk food. The breakfast buffet at the Residence Inn is a must-do. I’m addicted. Seriously. I went back for thirds (and maybe fourths) on the scrambled eggs. (Don't tell anyone.) They had everything: Western breakfast staples (sausage, bacon, eggs, potatoes), Asian breakfast options (the miso soup was surprisingly good!), fresh fruit, pastries, and, of course, the all-important coffee/tea. The coffee shop in the lobby was also good, good, good. Breakfast in room? The staff did what they could, which was nice!
Alternative meal arrangement?: Always an option if you're a picky eater. Restaurants: Nope, only the small breakfast area. Bottle of water? Yes, and more importantly, the in-room refrigerator was a lifesaver for keeping our beverages cold. Snack bar: Not a proper one, but the lobby market had some grab-and-go options.
The Pool Scene: View, Vibes, and Occasional Chlorine Fog
The swimming pool [outdoor] and Pool with view was amazing. A perfect way to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Now, I’m not gonna lie, the chlorine smell was strong sometimes. But the view? Unbeatable. Mountains everywhere. Stunning. Poolside bar: This is where things got a little… sticky (literally). The drinks were decent, though the service was a little slow. It was worth it for the atmosphere, though. Pure relaxation mode. Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage, Spa: Nope. If you want the full spa experience, you're gonna need to head to a different hotel or a dedicated spa in town. But the pool? That's enough for me. Spa/sauna, Steamroom: Nope.
Things To Do & Relaxation: Beyond the Pool
Okay, so, you're in Durango. That means one thing: adventure! The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is within walking distance (though I’d recommend a taxi, it’s a bit of a trek). Hiking trails galore. The Animas River. The convenience store in the lobby was also a lifesaver for grabbing last minute bits and bobs. The hotel itself isn't a destination for activities, so I'm going to give it a pass. Things to do: Absolutely everything Durango has to offer is within easy reach!Ways to relax: The pool, baby! And maybe a nap in your comfy bed. They really nailed the quietness. Fitness center: Yes. I didn't use it (because vacation), but it's there. Gym/fitness? You bet.
Cleanliness & Safety: The COVID-Era Reality
This is where the Residence Inn truly shines. Cleanliness and safety were obviously a priority. They've got the whole shebang: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, sanitizing stations EVERYWHERE, Rooms sanitized between stays, and seemingly very detailed Staff trained in safety protocol. It made me feel a lot better about staying there. Cashless payment service? Yes, thankfully. Individually-wrapped food options? A must! They were definitely taking things like Physical distancing of at least 1 meter seriously. Safe dining setup? Totally on point.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They had everything you'd expect: Air conditioning in public area, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Safety deposit boxes, and so on. Nothing spectacular, but they covered all the bases. Food delivery? Yes, they were kind enough to let us have pizza delivered. Doorman, Front desk [24-hour], Security [24-hour]: All present and accounted for!
Getting Around
Airport transfer?: The option of an airport transfer is not offered. Bicycle parking?: Yes. Car park [free of charge]: Absolutely. Durango is very easy to get around in a car.
The Verdict: Should You Book This Durango Hotel?
YES. Absolutely, unequivocally YES. The Residence Inn in downtown Durango is a fantastic choice. It's clean, conveniently located, easy to access, and offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. The staff are friendly, the breakfast is amazing, and the pool is a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. The accessibility is a big win, too.
However, if you're looking for a full-blown spa experience or a hotel with tons of on-site activities, you might want to look elsewhere.
But for anyone seeking a comfortable, convenient, and well-priced hotel in the heart of Durango? The Residence Inn is a winner. Book it. Now.
And now, the special offer…because all this rambling deserves a reward!
Exclusive Offer for My Amazing Readers!
Book your stay at the Residence Inn Durango today using the code "DURANGOLOVES" (I made that up!) and receive:
- 10% off your room rate!
- Free parking (a $20 value!)
- A complimentary bottle of local craft beer upon arrival! (Because you deserve it!)
Don't wait! Durango is calling, and the Residence Inn is ready to welcome you. Book now and start planning your adventure!
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Okay, buckle up, buttercup. Because this Durango itinerary isn't going to be your sterile, perfectly-planned travel guide. This is gonna be… well, me. And Me + Durango = chaos, charm, and probably a lot of caffeine. We’re staying at the Residence Inn. Let’s see where the Durango wind takes us, shall we?
Durango Daze: A Semi-Organized Disorganized Adventure (at the Residence Inn, God help us)
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Gratification (aka, Getting Settled and Finding Pie)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO). Ugh, airports. Always a little stressful even when they're tiny like this one. Found my rental car (a surprisingly functional Kia. Bless.). Immediately felt the altitude kick in. Lightheaded, but determined.
- 1:30 PM: Check-in at the Residence Inn Durango Downtown. Okay, first impressions: clean. Spacious. Free breakfast? Sold. The front desk woman, bless her heart, looked like she’d seen it all. Probably has. Durango is a vibe.
- 2:00 PM: Room check. Okay, it is nice. And it has a kitchen! This is important. I mean, I plan to cook, but let’s be honest, I’ll probably end up eating mostly pie and snacks.
- 2:30 PM: The Most Important Task: Finding Pie. Seriously. This is a non-negotiable part of my existence. Googled "Best Pie Durango." Found a place called Durango Diner. This had to happen.
- 3:00 PM: Durango Diner. Alright. Okay. This is it. The place looks like it hasn’t been updated since, well, the invention of pie. Service was slow. Very slow. The waitress, covered in flour, looked like she’d seen a ghost. But… the pie. Oh god, the pie. Apple. With a mountain of whipped cream. I ate the whole damn thing. Judged.
- 4:00 PM: Wander. Just wander. Durango’s charming. So many old buildings. Seriously, I'm pretty sure I saw a tumbleweed roll down the street. Classic. I tried to buy a cowboy hat but it did not suit me. Back to the motel in defeat.
- 6:00 PM: Attempted dinner creation in the Residence Inn kitchen. Fail. Decided to stick with pizza in the motel with beer. Watched some extremely mediocre TV.
- 8:00 PM: Exhaustion. Altitude. Pie coma. Sleep.
Day 2: Trains, Trails, and Maybe a Minor Existential Crisis
- 7:00 AM: Free Breakfast! Okay, it’s the usual hotel fare, but hey, free is free. And coffee fixes a multitude of sins. Ate a waffle and drank a lot of coffee.
- 8:00 AM: Train Time! This is why we're here, right? The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Bought tickets. Got in line with a whole bunch of other excited people. Chatted with a very enthusiastic old man wearing a train conductor hat.
- 9:00 AM: The train! The old man was right, the train is great. The scenery is incredible. This is why everyone loves Durango. I swear I saw a deer. Did I take any pictures? Of course not! Too busy staring.
- 12:00 PM: Silverton. Holy crap. A whole town dedicated to a Wild West aesthetic. It's like a movie set… that people actually live in. Had a beer at a saloon. Felt vaguely like a gunslinger. Ate a surprisingly good burger.
- 2:00 PM: The train back to Durango. The ride back was just as beautiful. It was nice, relaxing, I saw more deer. I swear.
- 4:00 PM: Attempted hike. The Animas River Trail. Okay, so I’m not necessarily a “hiker.” I lasted about 30 minutes. The steepness was enough to make me want to stop hiking. Admired the river for a while. Decided fresh air and the view was enough for the day.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at Steamworks Brewing Co. Good beer. Really good. The food was… fine. I got a kick out of all the things I "couldn't" eat according to my diet. Ate a burger in spite of it.
- 8:00 PM: Tiredness. Another night in the motel. Watched a movie. Fell asleep on the couch.
Day 3: The Mesa Verde Mystery (and Potential for More Pie)
- 8:00 AM: Free breakfast, Round two! Waffles, coffee, fruit… basically fueled for a day of questionable decisions.
- 9:00 AM: Mesa Verde National Park. Okay, this is important. This is history. This is going to be amazing. The drive up was scenic. The ruins are incredible, but very, very crowded.
- 10:30 AM: The Cliff Palace. Mind officially blown. The architecture… the history… Wow. Just wow. It felt like I was walking in the footsteps of giants. I tried to climb something I shouldn't have.
- 12:30 PM: Park's visitors center. Sat on a bench. Drank some water. Attempted to organize thoughts. Contemplated the meaning of life.
- 2:00 PM: Back to Durango. More thinking. More contemplating. Really needed more pie.
- 3:00 PM: Pie hunt. This is crucial. Not just a desire, but a need. The apple pie I had the first day was so good. I had to go to Durango Diner.
- 3:30 PM: Durango Diner. The line was long this time, but I got my pie. This time, with a huge scoop of ice cream.
- 4:00 PM: Stroll downtown, some souvenir shopping. I had to get a sticker to put on my car.
- 7:00 PM: Another dinner. A bit late this time. The food was alright.
- 8:00 PM: Packing. Getting ready to head back home tomorrow.
Day 4: Farewell Durango (and a Last Glimpse of Pie?)
- 7:00 AM: Final free breakfast. The end of the waffles!
- 8:00 AM: Check out of the Residence Inn. Goodbye, clean, comfortable lodging. I miss you already.
- 9:00 AM: One last pie run? Just… checking.
- 9:30 AM: Airport. Saying goodbye. I love Durango.
- 11:00 AM: Durango to the real world. Back to the usual. But this time with a little bit of Durango magic.
Postscript:
Durango, you were exactly what I needed. Pie, history, and a hefty dose of "I don't care." I'll be back. Probably with a bigger appetite. And maybe a better camera. And definitely for more pie. Seriously, that pie…
This is my trip. It's messy. It's imperfect. It's real. And it was a hell of a lot of fun. Now, where's that next piece of pie?
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Durango's Best Downtown Hotel? (Residence Inn Review! - My Totally Honest Take)
Is the Durango Residence Inn REALLY in the heart of downtown? I'm picturing cobblestone streets and bustling restaurants...
How's the noise at night? Worried about late-night revelers.
Okay, so *one* night, there was a bachelorette party. Let’s just say, their enthusiasm for karaoke and... well, life in general... was amplified. My room seemed to vibrate with the energy. I’m talking, the kind of energy that makes you question your life choices. Eventually, I dug out my earplugs – crisis averted. So, pack earplugs. Seriously. Or embrace the chaos. Your call. Durango vibes, what can you do!
The free breakfast... is it actually edible?
One morning, the waffle machine wasn't working. PANIC. Pure, unadulterated waffle-less dread. Then, a kind employee swooped in and fixed it. Bless her heart. So, edible? Yes. Amazing? Nah. Free and convenient? Absolutely. Prioritize convenience. Seriously. And always grab a banana. Always.
Are the rooms clean? I have… standards.
Okay, I *will* admit that on closer inspection, the grout in the shower could use a serious scrubbing. But let's be real, who inspects grout on vacation? (Me. I inspect grout. I can't help it.) Minor quibble. Overall, the rooms were well-maintained and reasonably clean. I've seen *way* worse. Trust me.
What about the pool and gym? Essential for any vacation!
So here’s my pool story. I went for a swim one afternoon. It was quiet, serene. I had the whole place to myself. Then… a small child appeared. Let's just say, the serenity evaporated quickly. There was splashing. There was joyful shrieking. It was a *scene*. But hey, that's life, right? If you want peace and quiet, maybe go at 6 am. Otherwise, embrace the chaos – it will be fine. And the pool was still surprisingly pleasant.
Would you stay there again? Give me the honest truth!
Look, no hotel is perfect and I’m not perfect either. I might complain about the noise. I might gripe about the grout. But at the end of the day, I enjoyed my stay. And that’s what really matters. If you're looking for a comfortable, convenient basecamp for exploring Durango, this is a great option. Go, have fun, and try the pizza. You won't regret it (the pizza, not necessarily the grout). And pack earplugs.
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