Experience the Magic of the Polar Express First Class Ride in Golden, Colorado
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking required.
Overview
Step aboard the Polar Express in Golden, Colorado, for a magical holiday train ride filled with festive stories, cozy First Class seating, and stunning winter scenery. Discover why this seasonal adventure is a standout festive outing for families and visitors alike.
Polar Express: Premium Table Top Seating
120 Minutes • All Ages Welcome • Get Your Own Private Table of Four!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the enchantment of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum! Enjoy premium seating, a magical journey to the North Pole, and delightful treats like hot cocoa and cookies. Each table receives special gifts, including commemorative mugs and a hardbound book, making this a truly unforgettable holiday adventure.
Join Us for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum!
Duration
120 Minutes
About
Premium Table Top groups get preferred seating in front of the stage in THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Pavilion. Then, you’ll board a premium parlor car for your magical train ride to the North Pole! Premium Table Top seating is available only as a complete table; your group can be up to four in size per table (plus up to two lap riders). Each table receives four commemorative THE POLAR EXPRESS™ cocoa mugs, a copy of The Polar Express illustrated hardbound book, plus two special, added gifts. Hot cocoa, cookies, and—of course— a Premium Silver Bell is included!
Handicapped Access: ADA accessible seating available on all shows. Available in Premium Table Top Seating only (due to the historic nature of our train consist).
Important Information
For 2025, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride performances are scheduled three times each evening. The season launches with performances four evenings each week, increasing in frequency through December. Opening Night is Friday, November 7th, and the final performances take place on December 23rd. Arrival time is very important for 2025 due to our THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Pavilion seating arrangements. Make sure you’re on time so you don’t miss any of the cabaret-style pre-show, Hot Chocolate song and dance performance, and dramatic reading and re-enactment of The Polar Express story. Suggested arrival times are 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. to enjoy the pre-show; shows begin promptly at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. Your magical train ride to the North Pole follows, but it’s only one part of an entire experience!
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Colorado winters can be chilly—wear layers to stay warm on the train platform and during outdoor transitions.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at the Colorado Railroad Museum at least 30 minutes before departure to find parking and settle in comfortably.
Bring a Camera
Capture scenic mountain views along the route, especially during golden hour light in winter afternoons.
Prepare for Limited Accessibility
While comfortable, the vintage railcars may have limited accommodations for those with mobility challenges—check accessibility options in advance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red-tailed hawks can sometimes be seen soaring in the foothills.
- Mule deer are occasionally spotted in nearby open spaces around Golden.
History
Golden was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush and played a key role in early Rocky Mountain railroading history.
Conservation
The Colorado Railroad Museum actively preserves historic rail artifacts and promotes sustainable tourism during seasonal events.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Golden
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Keep warm during outdoor wait times and as you explore Golden before or after the ride.
winter specific
Hat and Gloves
Essential for staying cozy in cold Colorado winter temperatures.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the festive scenes and winter landscapes throughout the experience.
Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for walking around the museum and boarding the train.