Ride the Magic of the Polar Express Train Experience in Golden, Colorado

Read the full experience

Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Golden, Colorado, offers a winter adventure that brilliantly captures the spirit of the holiday season—the Polar Express: Standard Seating train ride. Inspired by the beloved children’s story, this family-friendly journey aboard classic passenger cars takes guests on a round-trip excursion from Golden through scenic mountain landscapes. As the train chugs along historic tracks, you’ll be wrapped in a cozy atmosphere with festive lights and holiday music, making this excursion a standout seasonal experience for visitors and locals alike. The route traces a portion of the Colorado Railroad Museum’s preserved rail infrastructure, known for maintaining vintage locomotives and cars that recall the golden age of rail travel. This attention to detail makes the Polar Express ride not just a festive outing but also a memorable glimpse into the region’s railroading heritage. The journey itself is ideal for families and travelers wanting to bask in the joyful ambiance without venturing into backcountry conditions. The standard seating offers comfortable bench-style open cars that foster a communal feel, with views of rugged foothills, spruce forests, and snow-dusted cliffs unique to the Colorado Front Range. During the ride, kids receive a keepsake golden ticket and hot cocoa as characters from the story perform aboard, enhancing the enchantment of the trip. Operating within the Colorado Railroad Museum, the trip supports local preservation efforts, making it an important part of Golden’s cultural and outdoor recreational landscape. Golden’s proximity to Denver makes it easy for visitors to combine this holiday outing with nearby hiking trails, rock climbing areas, or mountain biking routes. The town itself features a historic downtown with handcrafted eateries and shops, perfect for pre- or post-ride explorations. For those intrigued by rail history or looking to add a festive touch to their Colorado winter itinerary, the Polar Express is unique for integrating a beloved holiday narrative with genuine vintage rail authenticity, setting it apart from typical seasonal attractions. Whether you’re bringing the entire family or seeking a nostalgic experience, this train ride perfectly captures the magic of Colorado winter alongside stunning natural scenery and a celebration of local heritage. From the carefully restored locomotives to the immersive storytelling onboard, the Polar Express: Standard Seating in Golden invites you to step into a winter wonderland that’s as accessible as it is heartwarming.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5–2 hours.

Fitness level

Accessible to most fitness levels since this is a seated train ride with minimal physical exertion required.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Polar Express ride suitable for young children?

Yes, the ride is designed especially for families, with characters and themed entertainment to delight children.

Are there food or drinks available on board?

Hot cocoa is typically served during the ride, but there is no full food service on board.

Can I bring my own refreshments?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed on the train, but visitors can snack at the museum before boarding.

Is the train ride wheelchair accessible?

Standard seating cars have limited accessibility; contact the museum ahead of time to discuss accommodation options.

How long is the train ride?

The round-trip Polar Express experience lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where do I park for the Polar Express ride?

Free parking is available at the Colorado Railroad Museum, adjacent to the boarding area.

Local insights

Wildlife

Red-tailed hawks frequent the foothill skies
Mule deer can sometimes be spotted near the museum perimeter

History

The Colorado Railroad Museum preserves and operates historic trains to celebrate the region’s rich railroading past dating back to the late 19th century.

Conservation

The museum actively works to preserve railroad heritage while promoting environmentally responsible tourism in Golden’s natural foothill environment.

About Colorado Railroad Museum

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.

Base locationGolden, Colorado

Tours offered2+

Adventure tips

Dress in LayersTemperatures can drop inside open-air cars—bring warm layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.

Book EarlyThis popular seasonal experience sells out quickly; reserve tickets well in advance to secure your seat.

Arrive EarlyGive yourself time to explore the Colorado Railroad Museum exhibits before boarding the train.

Plan for Limited AccessibilityStandard seating cars may have limited wheelchair access; check ahead if accommodations are needed.

Recommended gear

Warm Jacket: Colorado winters are cold and windy, especially on open-air train cars.
Gloves and Hat: Keep extremities warm during outdoor wait times and throughout the ride.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture festive moments and mountain views from the train windows.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated before and after the 90-minute ride, especially if exploring the museum grounds.