We stopped at the visitor's center near the park entrance, then at the museum near Spruce Tree House. K served as an excellent tour guide during our stop at Spruce Tree House, enlightening all of us about the history and culture of the ancestral Puebloans who lived there. And though they weren't there for long in the grand scheme of things (700 years or so), they built quite a place.
K, inside a kiva
There's lots of great history about Spruce Tree House, the other sites, and the people who lived there, on the National Park Service website.
We also made a stop at an overlook which allowed us a lovely view of Cliff Palace, but unfortunately the site was closed to visitors for the winter.
We made our last stop at a scenic overlook looking out from Mesa Verde, and what a view it was!
Not far from Mesa Verde is a little town called Mancos (or Marcos, depending on which sign you believe). We stopped for lunch at an adorable (though not particularly speedy) spot called the Absolute Bakery and Cafe where, in addition to a delicious roasted veggie quiche, you can also buy used books!
Upon our return to Durango, we commenced shopping. Collectively we had some belated Christmas gifts, travel gifts, and other goodies to gather, so we tromped up and down Main Avenue poking in the shops. We were all delightfully surprised by the Derailed Pour House, which serves up some awfully tasty cocktails if you ask nicely.
When that was all done, we headed back to the house to prepare a dinner of overdue lamb kebabs, mashed potato casserole, and Brussels sprouts. Delish! And Dad and D looked quite stunning in their new getups!
Love the aprons!!
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