Colorado Railroad Museum
Explore over 100 vintage trains and a stunning model railroad at this Golden, CO gem. A must-visit for history buffs and families!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Colorado Railroad Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 100 vintage trains and a stunning model railroad at this Golden, CO gem. A must-visit for history buffs and families!
"What a gem this museum is! Well maintained and impressive."
🎯 Book Special Event Tickets Early
Events like 'Day Out With Thomas' sell out fast! Follow the museum for announcements and book tickets well in advance.
💰 Reasonable Admission Fees
Visitors find the admission fees very reasonable for the extensive collection and experiences offered.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Incredible Model Railroad
Basement Exhibit
An extraordinarily detailed and impressive model train city, a must-see for all ages.
Vintage Locomotive Collection
Outdoor Yard
Explore over 100 vintage trains and rail cars; many are accessible to walk through.
Historic Train Rides
Museum Perimeter
Enjoy a scenic ride around the property with historical narration, a fun experience for kids and adults.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Maximizing Your Exploration Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Special Event Tickets Early
Events like 'Day Out With Thomas' sell out fast! Follow the museum for announcements and book tickets well in advance. 
💰 Reasonable Admission Fees
Visitors find the admission fees very reasonable for the extensive collection and experiences offered.
🚶♀️ Explore Inside & Out
Don't miss the detailed model trains downstairs and the chance to walk through many of the vintage locomotives outside.
🪙 Activate Model Train Features
Bring quarters to activate various features and interactive elements within the impressive model train exhibit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Special Event Tickets Early
Events like 'Day Out With Thomas' sell out fast! Follow the museum for announcements and book tickets well in advance.
💰 Reasonable Admission Fees
Visitors find the admission fees very reasonable for the extensive collection and experiences offered.
🚶♀️ Explore Inside & Out
Don't miss the detailed model trains downstairs and the chance to walk through many of the vintage locomotives outside.
🪙 Activate Model Train Features
Bring quarters to activate various features and interactive elements within the impressive model train exhibit.
🚂 Check Train Ride Status
Confirm which train will be operating for rides, as steam engines may be substituted due to staff shortages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Colorado Railroad Museum for its impressive collection of vintage trains and the incredibly detailed model railroad exhibit. The accessible locomotives and friendly staff are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some guests have noted issues with limited access to certain cars due to vandalism and occasional disappointment with train ride substitutions or closures.
"What a gem this museum is! Well maintained and impressive. We enjoyed the upper level video of the history, being able to go and see into the trains and visit the model trains and cities surrounding the trains. The details in this basement exhibit was impressive. We thought the fees were very reasonable."
Catherine Kolkoski
"Fun rail museum that we made sure to see on our visit to Colorado. A large collection of cars and engines to see. Unfortunately, because of vandalism not all of the cars were available to see and experience on a weekend which was a huge bummer. If you take the train ride definitely enjoy the restored car from the 1880s, it's beautiful. The model rail road downstairs is extraordinary and very detailed. Overall, the experience felt very very kid oriented and us adult kids that enjoy trains have to deal with screaming and general disregard from kids pushing past or through photos. We would have liked to also see the library and all of it's treasures in there but that was also closed. Tried buying a pin and a patch for my collection...only one was available to buy.
The engines and collection are great, and if you're a rail fan there's definitely something here for you to enjoy, but overall the experience left us wanting."
Damian Valdez
"Cool trains on the property and a fun stop overall. We were supposed to ride the steam engine, but due to a staff shortage they ran the Galloping Goose instead. It was still a neat experience, but I wish they had let us know ahead of time that the steam engine wasn’t operating. The ride itself loops around the property about three times—fun for kids, though a bit underwhelming for adults.
The highlight for us was the downstairs train room—really impressive and definitely worth checking out. We also got to push the train wheel, which was surprisingly fun! Staff was friendly and helpful throughout our visit. We enjoyed it, but given the small size of the museum, it’s probably a one-time experience for us."
Brooke W.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Colorado Railroad Museum is located at 17155 W 44th Ave, Golden, CO 80403. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended for visitors coming from Denver or surrounding areas.
Yes, the museum offers parking for visitors. It's generally sufficient for most days, but can become more challenging during major special events.
Absolutely! The museum is located in Golden, Colorado, which is a short drive from Denver, making it a perfect day trip destination for train enthusiasts and families.
If you're flying into Denver International Airport (DEN), renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the museum in Golden. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Golden itself offers charming shops and restaurants. You can also explore nearby Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre or the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for a fuller day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally considered reasonable by visitors. While specific prices can vary, the museum offers good value for the experience. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
For general admission, it's often possible to purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for popular special events like 'Day Out With Thomas,' advance purchase is highly recommended as they frequently sell out.
The museum occasionally offers free days or special discount promotions. It's best to check their website or social media channels for announcements regarding 'Colorado Railroad Museum free days' or membership benefits.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and on special event days. It's crucial to check the official Colorado Railroad Museum hours on their website before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Train rides are typically an additional fee on top of general admission. You can usually purchase these tickets at the museum on the day of your visit, but it's wise to confirm availability, especially for special locomotives.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
Most visitors suggest allocating at least 2-3 hours, with some recommending a full half-day or more to thoroughly explore the extensive collection, including the detailed model railroad exhibit.
The basement model railroad exhibit is consistently praised as extraordinary and highly detailed. Exploring the numerous vintage locomotives and rail cars, many of which you can enter, is also a major highlight.
Yes, the museum is very kid-friendly! Special events like 'Day Out With Thomas' are huge hits, and the interactive elements, train rides, and ability to explore trains make it engaging for younger visitors.
Yes, you can explore the interior of many of the vintage locomotives and rail cars on display. This hands-on experience is a significant draw for visitors of all ages.
While many areas are accessible, some older train cars might have limited accessibility. The model railroad exhibit is in the basement, so inquire about elevator access if needed. Some visitors noted vandalism impacted access to certain cars.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum may have limited concessions or a small cafe, but it's not a primary dining destination. Many visitors opt to bring their own snacks or plan to eat in Golden before or after their visit.
Generally, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is permitted for consumption in designated areas or for a picnic. It's always a good idea to confirm their specific policy upon arrival.
Yes, the town of Golden offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries just a short drive from the museum, providing plenty of dining options.
Golden has a range of choices, from casual diners and sandwich shops to brewpubs and more upscale restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Many visitors find it convenient to eat in Golden before or after their museum visit, allowing them to focus on exploring the exhibits without time constraints related to dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor yard with the diverse collection of locomotives and rail cars offers numerous photo opportunities. The detailed model railroad exhibit also provides unique shots.
Yes, you are generally allowed to take photos inside the accessible train cars. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
While general photography is encouraged, be aware of any specific exhibit restrictions or areas that may be off-limits. Tripods or professional equipment might require special permission.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the locomotives and details within the trains. A prime lens can be great for low-light conditions in the model railroad exhibit.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at most museums and historical sites to ensure safety and preserve the exhibits. Always check the museum's specific drone policy before visiting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the train rides, which are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids. Special events like 'Day Out With Thomas' are legendary, though tickets sell out extremely fast, so plan ahead!
+1 Even on regular days, the sheer scale of the locomotives and the hands-on elements make it an engaging and memorable outing for children. Remember to bring quarters for the model train features! 🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The model railroad exhibit is a marvel of intricate detail and craftsmanship, showcasing a passion for the hobby that resonates with enthusiasts. Volunteers are often on hand to share their knowledge, making for enriching conversations. While some areas might have limited access due to maintenance or vandalism, the core collection remains a powerful draw for anyone with a love for trains.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale of the engines and the textures of the vintage metal. The accessible interiors of the trains also offer compelling shots, capturing the atmosphere of past journeys. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific photography restrictions, but generally, the museum is a welcoming environment for capturing stunning railway imagery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Model Railroad
To truly appreciate this miniature world, remember to bring quarters. These coins allow you to activate various features and moving parts within the model layout, bringing the scene to life. It's a small detail that adds a significant layer of interactivity and wonder to the visit.
This exhibit is more than just a collection of trains; it's a testament to craftsmanship and passion. The level of detail, from the tiny buildings to the landscaping, is remarkable and offers a unique perspective on the world of railroads. It's a quiet, immersive space that provides a wonderful contrast to the grandeur of the full-sized locomotives outside.
Exploring the Vintage Locomotive Collection
Visitors often highlight the opportunity to walk through and explore the interiors of these magnificent machines. From the driver's cab to the passenger compartments, each train tells a story. The museum strives to maintain these pieces of history, though occasional vandalism has impacted access to some cars, as noted by some reviewers.
Beyond the locomotives themselves, the museum also hosts special events that can bring these historic machines to life. While the 'Day Out With Thomas' event is a major draw, the museum also features classic car shows and other themed gatherings, adding variety to the visitor experience.
The Train Ride Experience
It's important to note that the type of train used for the ride can vary. While a steam engine is a sought-after experience, staff shortages or maintenance issues might lead to the use of other vintage rail cars, such as the 'Galloping Goose.' While still enjoyable, it's advisable to confirm which locomotive will be operating if a specific type is important to your visit.
The ride itself is generally described as fun for kids, offering about three loops around the perimeter. While it might be a bit brief for some adults seeking a longer excursion, it provides a pleasant way to see more of the museum's grounds and enjoy the atmosphere of a working railroad.
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