You Can Climb Aboard These Towering Colorado Trains from the Golden Age of Rail

Ever wondered what it was like to travel across the Rocky Mountains during the golden age of rail? Imagine the chug of a steam engine, the gleam of polished brass, and the sheer power of the locomotives that conquered Colorado’s rugged terrain. There’s a place just outside of Denver where this history isn’t just preserved in glass cases—it’s alive, breathing, and waiting for you to climb aboard.

Nestled on 15 acres in Golden, this spot is a sprawling outdoor playground for anyone who’s ever been fascinated by trains. You can wander among more than 100 historic engines, cabooses, and passenger cars, feeling the immense scale of these iron horses up close. It’s not just about looking; it’s about touching, exploring, and even riding the rails on a genuine steam locomotive that circles the property. It’s a hands-on journey back in time that captivates everyone from toddlers to grandparents.

This incredible destination is the Colorado Railroad Museum. It’s more than just a collection of artifacts; it’s an interactive experience that tells the story of how railroads shaped the American West. Whether you’re a die-hard train enthusiast or just looking for a unique family outing, this museum offers a day of discovery and fun that you won’t soon forget.

What We Love

Historic Locomotives Up Close

The main draw here is the staggering collection of real, historic trains. You’re not just looking at them from behind a rope; you can walk right up, touch the cold steel, and marvel at the engineering that powered a nation. From the massive steam-powered locomotives that tackled mountain passes to the quirky Galloping Goose railcars, each piece has a story to tell.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the evolution of rail travel. You can peek inside vintage passenger cars, imagine life as a conductor in a classic caboose, and stand next to the giant wheels of an engine to truly appreciate its size. The sheer variety is impressive, and the museum does an excellent job of preserving these incredible machines for everyone to enjoy.

The Train Rides

What’s a railroad museum without a train ride? On select days, you can hop aboard a train pulled by either a historic steam or diesel locomotive for a scenic trip around the museum’s half-mile loop. Hearing the whistle blow and feeling the gentle sway of the car is a truly magical experience that brings the history to life.

The ride gives you a fantastic perspective of the entire rail yard and the surrounding scenery. It’s a highlight for kids and a nostalgic treat for adults. Be sure to check their schedule online before you go, as the type of locomotive running and the days of operation can vary. It’s the perfect way to cap off your exploration of the grounds.

The Garden Railroad

Downstairs in the main museum building, you’ll find a delightful surprise: an enormous G-scale model railroad. This isn’t your average basement setup. It’s a meticulously crafted world in miniature, with tiny trains weaving through detailed landscapes, towns, and tunnels that represent Colorado’s iconic railroad routes.

You can spend ages watching the different trains chug along, spotting all the tiny details hidden in the scenery. It’s a work of art and a testament to the passion of the model railroaders who maintain it. Kids are absolutely mesmerized by it, and honestly, it’s just as captivating for adults. It provides a wonderful, bird’s-eye view of the systems you see outside in full scale.

Special Events

The museum truly shines during its special events. Throughout the year, they host fantastic themed experiences that are perfect for creating family memories. The “Day Out With Thomas” is a massive hit with the little ones, giving them a chance to meet the famous tank engine himself.

Around the holidays, “The Polar Express Train Ride” is an absolute must-do. The museum transforms into a winter wonderland, and you get to relive the magic of the classic story on a real train. These events are incredibly popular and often sell out, so be sure to plan and book your tickets well in advance. They take the museum experience to a whole new level.

Family-Friendly Fun

This place is designed with families in mind. The wide-open spaces are perfect for letting kids run around and burn off some energy, and the hands-on nature of the exhibits keeps them engaged. They can climb into the cab of a locomotive, ring a real engine bell, and explore the inside of a caboose.

Beyond the trains themselves, there’s a great playground area and plenty of picnic tables if you want to bring your own lunch. The whole experience is educational without feeling like a stuffy lesson. It’s a place where kids can learn through play and discovery, making it an ideal outing for a sunny Colorado day.

Atmosphere & Setting

The vibe at the Colorado Railroad Museum is relaxed, nostalgic, and genuinely joyful. It feels like you’ve stepped into a different era, where the pace is a little slower and the machines are a lot bigger. The sound of a train whistle echoing against the backdrop of the foothills, the smell of coal smoke on steam days, and the sight of families exploring together create a wonderfully wholesome atmosphere.

Set against the beautiful landscape of Golden with views of the surrounding mesas, the outdoor setting is a huge part of its charm. It’s less of a traditional, indoor museum and more of a historical park. You can wander at your own pace, soak up the Colorado sunshine, and feel a real connection to the history all around you. It’s a refreshing and engaging environment for all ages.

Value (Is It Worth It?)

Absolutely! For what you get, the admission price is a fantastic deal. A general admission ticket gives you access to the entire 15-acre rail yard, the indoor exhibits, and the incredible model railroad. You can easily spend half a day or more here, making it a great value for a family outing. Train rides are an additional, small fee, but they are well worth it for the unique experience.

When you consider the cost of other family activities, the museum offers a ton of entertainment and education for a very reasonable price. You’re not just paying for admission; you’re supporting the preservation of Colorado’s rich railroad heritage. The ability to bring your own food for a picnic also helps keep the overall cost down, making it an accessible and affordable day of fun.

Other Considerations

Parking: There’s a large, free parking lot right on site, so you won’t have any trouble finding a spot.

Hours: The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but it’s always a good idea to check their website for any special holiday hours or closures before you visit.

Food & Drink: While there are some snacks and drinks available in the gift shop, there isn’t a full cafe. However, you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it at the numerous picnic tables scattered around the grounds.

Accessibility: The main museum building and restrooms are accessible. The outdoor grounds consist of gravel paths, which can be a bit challenging for some wheelchairs or strollers, but much of the yard is navigable.

What to Wear: Since most of the museum is outdoors, dress for the weather! Wear comfortable walking shoes, and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, as there isn’t a lot of shade.

If you’re looking for something different to do that the whole family will genuinely enjoy, you have to check out the Colorado Railroad Museum. It’s a place where history feels exciting and accessible, and where the simple joy of a train ride can make anyone feel like a kid again. It’s a true Colorado gem that celebrates the spirit of adventure that built this state.

So next time you have a free day, take a trip to Golden and immerse yourself in the age of steam. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for these magnificent machines and some wonderful memories to boot. All aboard for a great time!