Kick The Can

Life was sure different for kids at the turn of the Century.  For one thing, they worked! Large families were the norm and kids were expected (and often relied upon) to help with chores, farm work, and odd jobs so they could contribute financially to their families.  Kids were rarely supervised and here in Durango they enjoyed playing pranks and games like Kick The Can well into the evenings under the arc lights. This tour will give your kids a taste of what it was like during that time.  They will learn about the shoot-out between the Sheriff and Marshall, a foiled bank robbery attempt, a 130 year old mansion, the fire of 1889, and prohibition among other things. The tour will end at Thru the Lense where they will have an old tyme “most wanted” photograph taken. Each child will receive a free 5x7 photo and an authentic sheriff’s badge. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Quick & Dirty

For those seeking only the highlight reel.  This tour takes a one-way walk down Main Street learning about some of Durango’s most notorious people and events. We will meet at the Steaming Bean Coffee House in the old Colorado State Bank building where you can grab a coffee to sip along the way. On this condensed tour we will not be entering establishments (except in the meeting place). Some of the stories we will be sharing, at the very sites, include Durango’s only legal hanging and lynching, the fatal gun duel between the Sheriff & the Marshall, and the brothel with the lavish madam.

Coal Dust & Oysters

This tour focuses on South Main Avenue.This district was the dirtier part of town and therefore had more immigrants and affordable hotels.  Visit the site of a notorious gun battle between two rival gangs. A hotel with a strange murder and the businesses of two famous Coloradans whom you may not have guessed lived in Durango. This tour is 1.5 hours. At this time, no children under 14.

Murder & Mayhem

This tour will focus on North Main Avenue where various people have met their fate.  A lover's triangle, an infamous duel, and a notorious family feud with a murderous ending are all subjects of the tour along with many others.