Welcome to Mancos
This riverside town still maintains its western charm
Founded in 1894, the town of Mancos is known for its small-town ambiance and rich historical past. The town is located in southwest Colorado, between Durango and Cortez on US 160. It’s located just five miles away from the entrance of Mesa Verde National Park and about 40 miles northeast of the Four Corners Monument. Nestled below the Mesa Verde Plateau, Mancos exists primarily as an agricultural community. Several of the buildings in town are on the State and National Historic Registers, including the historic Mancos Times-Tribune building that has been recently renovated back to its original glory.
- Spending the day in nature at Mancos State Park
- Historic buildings and a rich past
- Laid-back lifestyle
Local Lifestyle
Surrounded by rangeland and mountains, Mancos provides residents with an abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Today, Mancos is home to approximately 1,300 residents from all walks of life and background. The town is home to everyone from retirees to young families to nature enthusiasts, who are all united by the town’s strong sense of community. With a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, Mancos offers residents a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Due to its proximity to outdoor attractions, the town has become a hub for tourists who are drawn to the cool summers and snowy winters.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Whether you’re new to town or simply passing through, no trip to Mancos is complete without a visit to the downtown district. The historic downtown stretches over a couple of blocks and is lined with art galleries, restaurants, and local shops. Mancos offers farm-to-table restaurants, farmers markets, coffee roasters, and one of the oldest operating bars in Colorado.
Start off your morning with a pastry from Absolute Bakery & Cafe, located on Main Street. This family-owned eatery utilizes the freshest, seasonal, organic ingredients to create unforgettable dishes. For an enjoyable evening out with friends, be sure to check out Mancos Brewing Company. This local watering hole provides great beer in a relaxed setting. Meanwhile, Fenceline Cider & Wine is another great place to unwind while you enjoy wine. The taproom and patio is the spot where locals and visitors gather to relax, taste local food truck fare, and enjoy live music.
Kick-off your weekend with a caffeine fix from Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters. Located in the heart of town, this family-owned and operated business specializes in fresh, fair, locally roasted coffee, as well as light breakfast and lunch fare. With your coffee in hand, head over to the Mancos Farmer’s Market to stock up on fresh produce and other goods. The farmers market runs from June to October and consists of local vendors selling goods, artwork, and live music.
The abundance of outdoor attractions means that there’s always something to do in Mancos. Fishing, hiking, camping, bicycling, and horseback riding are all part of the norm. For a day of exploration and adventure, check out Mesa Verde National Park, located just five miles to the west of town. If you’re looking for something closer, Mancos State Park is a haven for year-round recreation and retreat in the mountains of southwest Colorado.
Mancos is served by the Mancos School District Re-6 and is home to a number of highly-regarded educational institutions, including:
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Mancos Elementary School, K-5
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Mancos Middle School, 6-8
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Mancos High School, 9-12. This school has earned a 2019 College Success Award based on its success in preparing students for college.
