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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking required.
Wildlife
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.
Colorado Railroad Museum
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.
The Colorado Railroad Museum preserves and celebrates rail history while presenting curated experiential events that appeal to families, holiday travelers, and adventure seekers. Located in Colorado, the museum is best known for hosting THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, offered in both Standard Seating and Premium Table Top Seating. The Polar Express experiences include a cabaret-style pre-show, a themed train journey to the North Pole, hot cocoa and cookies, and memorable visits from Santa — with premium tables receiving commemorative mugs and a hardbound book.
In addition to seasonal train rides, the museum's programming includes a full-day field offering called the El Salto Waterfall Adventure Tour: Full Day, featuring ziplining, rock climbing, and rappelling down an 80-foot waterfall, and concluding with a home-cooked meal in a mountain setting. These diverse offerings combine historical interpretation with hands-on adventure and family-focused entertainment.
The Colorado Railroad Museum collaborates with trained staff and licensed partners to ensure safety, accessibility, and high production values across events. Its seasonal Polar Express runs are produced with theatrical elements and guest amenities that emphasize festive immersion. Ticketing, seating tiers, and onboard inclusions are clearly described at booking to help guests choose the right experience.
Visitors can expect a mix of heritage rail exhibits and curated experiences that make for memorable outings and special-occasion celebrations. The museum positions itself as a trusted destination for holiday train adventures and adventurous day trips, blending museum stewardship with experiential programming designed to delight multiple generations. Advance reservations are recommended for peak holiday periods annually.
Tours Offered
3
Three distinct experiences available.
Holiday Favorite
Polar Express
Seasonal train ride with Santa.
Unique Locations
Colorado & Puerto Rico
Experiences in varied settings.
Seating Options
Standard & Premium
Multiple seating tiers offered.
Secure Standard or Premium Table Top seating for THE POLAR EXPRESS™, or claim a spot on the full-day El Salto Waterfall Adventure before dates fill up.
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.
Warm Jacket
Keep warm during outdoor wait times and as you explore Golden before or after the ride.
winter
Hat and Gloves
Essential for staying cozy in cold Colorado winter temperatures.
winter
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.