Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Our Mission

To ignite curiosity, spark imagination, and power exploration.

Our Vision

To be a leading science and educational center in the Southwest that brings together curious minds of all ages, inspires innovative learning, and unleashes human potential.

Our Values

Education We believe that interactive discovery + science education should be available to everyone; it fosters a love of learning and develops creative, critical thinkers.
Science We believe that an appreciation and understanding of science is integral to being an informed citizen. Exposing children to the sciences at an early age is critical to fostering their natural curiosity.
Energy We recognize that energy was a primary motivation for the development of the Powerhouse and that it is integral to all human endeavor.
History We draw inspiration from early scientists and inventors as we develop a forward-thinking center that showcases energy technology and challenges us to explore future energy possibilities.
Community We value our role as a gathering place and science + cultural center for all families.
Leadership Our work is to inspire youth to be informed leaders and leaders to be better informed.
Trust We have a responsibility to be a resource for accurate and meaningful information. We are fiscally accountable and responsible to our stakeholders.

The Power of Fun

The Discovery Museum at the Powerhouse will be a unique interactive museum where visitors of all ages can explore energy--past, present, and future. A vibrant gem along the Animas River, the museum will be an anchor for downtown and catalyst for revitalizing Durango's riverfront. Housed in the oldest surviving coal-fired, steam-generated AC power plant, the museum's interactive exhibits will inspire exploration. Recently, the Powerhouse site and structures have undergone major historic preservation renovation and brownfield remediation. The building and surrounding area now stand ready for an exciting transformation.

Inspiring Invention and Discovery

The Powerhouse can help us examine the role of power in our lives and, as it did more than a century ago, help us answer the question, "Are you ready for the future?" Visitors will experiment with the foundation sciences that gave rise to electrical power, learn about locally mined energy products, operate hydrogen powered race cars, and explore building techniques that result in low utility bills without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Exhibits will include use of the equipment remaining in the Powerhouse from its early days of operation, including turbine AC generators, to explain the science of electricity generation. Exhibits will demonstrate different innovative technologies for creating energy and techniques for conserving energy usage.

A Green Future

In keeping with the Powerhouse founder's commitment to innovation, we believe new ideas and methods can meet our nation's energy needs while maintaining a healthy environment. We aim to make the Powerhouse a power producer again--a showplace for new energy. The Discovery Museum at the Powerhouse is also a registered LEED project. LEED principles ensure the building's construction and operation meet high standards for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

Riverfront Revitalization

Imagine a riverfront park alive with children climbing outdoor exhibits, adults sipping espresso, and friends bicycling in to share a picnic lunch. A local artist strums a banjo, and sounds of delight emit from the outdoor toddler area. In the evening, pedestrians stroll beneath Victorian street lamps shimmering along the river trail. It's a beautiful way to wrap up a day in downtown Durango.

A Community Asset

While contributing $3 million per year to the Durango economy, the Durango Discovery Museum will jump start riverfront revitalization. The long-range site plan ties Main Avenue to the riverfront via a pedestrian-friendly portal and establishes the museum as an anchor for downtown, attracting tourists and locals alike.