Ride the Magic of the Polar Express Train Experience in Golden, Colorado
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.
Overview
Experience Colorado’s beloved holiday train ride in Golden, where vintage railcars, festive storytelling, and mountain views come together for a magical winter journey. Perfect for families and rail enthusiasts alike.
Polar Express: Standard Seating
120 Minutes • All Ages Welcome • Enjoy A Multi-Part Theatrical Experience and Train Ride
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum! Enjoy a captivating cabaret-style show, followed by a enchanting train journey to the North Pole. Delight in hot cocoa, cookies, and a special visit from Santa, making this a memorable holiday adventure for the whole family.
Join Us for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum!
Duration
120 Minutes
About
Your group will be seated together in THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Pavilion for the cabaret-style show, and then you’ll board a magical train ride to the North Pole! A visit with Santa, hot cocoa, cookies, and—of course—a Silver Bell is included with each ticket. Lap Riders do not have access to individual seating. NOTE: Groups wishing to be seated together must purchase all tickets in a single transaction. Lap Riders under age 2 ride free!
Important Information
For 2025, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride performances are scheduled three times each evening. The season launches with performances several 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 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
Temperatures can drop inside open-air cars—bring warm layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Book Early
This popular seasonal experience sells out quickly; reserve tickets well in advance to secure your seat.
Arrive Early
Give yourself time to explore the Colorado Railroad Museum exhibits before boarding the train.
Plan for Limited Accessibility
Standard seating cars may have limited wheelchair access; check ahead if accommodations are needed.
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Golden
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Colorado winters are cold and windy, especially on open-air train cars.
winter specific
Gloves and Hat
Keep extremities warm during outdoor wait times and throughout the ride.
winter specific
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.