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Colorado Railroad Museum: A Nod To Rail History Since 1959

Published: February 12, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Nestled against the breathtaking foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Railroad Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history of rail transport in the American West. As you plan your visit or simply wish to learn more about this fascinating institution, this guide will provide all the information you need to enjoy every aspect of what the museum has to offer.

Westside Lumber 3-truck Shay #12 leads an excursion on the Westside & Cherry Valley at Tuolumne, California in May, 1979. The engine now resides at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Drew Jacksich photo.

Introduction

The Colorado Railroad Museum, located in Golden, Colorado, has been preserving the vibrant history of railroading since its opening in 1959. This 15-acre site is home to an extraordinary collection of over 100 narrow and standard-gauge locomotives, railcars, and other rolling stock, set amidst a picturesque landscape that mirrors the beauty of historic rail routes. Whether you're a train enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museum promises an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

## Getting There

### Location

The museum is situated at 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, Colorado, a short drive from Denver and easily accessible by car or public transport. The location is brimming with natural beauty, with clear views of the surrounding mountains.

### Directions

From Denver, take I-70 West to Exit 265 onto Colorado Mills Parkway, which merges into West 44th Avenue. Follow this road directly to the museum. Alternatively, the RTD bus service has routes from Denver to Golden, where you can take a quick taxi or ride-sharing service to the museum.

### Parking

The museum offers free parking facilities on-site. Plenty of spaces are available for both small and large vehicles, including RVs and tour buses.

## Hours and Admission

### Operating Hours

The museum is open year-round, from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on major public holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

### Admission Fees

- Adults: $10
- Seniors (over 60): $8
- Children (ages 2-15): $5
- Children under 2: Free
- Museum members: Free

Discounts are available for groups, and annual family passes can also be purchased for unlimited visits throughout the year. Special event pricing may apply for certain occasions.

## Exhibits and Attractions

### Rolling Stock Collection

The heart of the museum is its extensive collection of locomotives and rolling stock. Highlights include:

- **Rio Grande Southern No. 20:** A historically significant narrow-gauge steam locomotive, restored to its original glory.
- **Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4005:** One of only eight surviving examples of this behemoth steam locomotive, which stands as a testament to the power and scale of American railroading.
- **Dining and Passenger Cars:** Explore restored cars from the golden age of rail travel, including luxury dining and Pullman sleepers.

### Model Railroad Exhibits

Inside the museum building, don’t miss the detailed model railroad displays. These setups meticulously recreate historical and fictional railroads, offering insight into track engineering, railroad operations, and rail culture. Both children and adults can marvel at the miniature worlds comprising towns, landscapes, and of course, trains.

### Galloping Goose

Experience the quirky charm of the “Galloping Goose” – a hybrid rail and road vehicle unique to the Colorado region. The museum houses examples of these peculiar machines, which provide a unique insight into adaptive rail solutions of the past.

### Roundhouse and Turntable

Witness demonstrations of the museum’s operational turntable, a crucial piece of railroad technology used to rotate locomotives for maintenance and direction changes. The museum’s reconstructed roundhouse gives visitors an up-close look at train restoration projects in progress.

## Museum Activities

### Train Rides

From April to October, visitors can experience train rides on the museum's scenic loop, pulled by either steam or diesel locomotives. These rides provide a direct line back to the golden age of rail travel, offering beautiful views of the mountains and a genuine feel of train travel’s bygone era.

### Special Events

The museum hosts numerous themed events throughout the year, bringing history to life in creative ways. Notable events include:

- **Day Out With Thomas:** A family-friendly event featuring the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine, with arts, crafts, and train rides.
- **Polar Express Train Ride:** An enchanting holiday experience where families are immersed in the magical story of The Polar Express.
- **Steam and Wine Tastings:** Exclusive events for adults where guests can savor local wines while enjoying live steam locomotive demonstrations.

### Educational Programs

For those interested in a deeper understanding of railroading, the museum offers a range of educational programs, including:

- **Guided Tours:** Learn from expert docents who share fascinating stories about Colorado’s rail history.
- **Workshops and Lectures:** Engage in hands-on activities and talks from industry professionals, exploring various aspects of rail technology and history.
- **School and Youth Programs:** Tailored experiences for school groups that align with educational standards, making learning both fun and informative.

## Amenities

### Gift Shop

Before leaving, be sure to visit the museum gift shop, offering a variety of train-themed memorabilia, books, models, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of rail travel. These make perfect mementos of your visit or gifts for fellow train enthusiasts.

### Picnic Area

For a leisurely break, the museum provides picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by scenic landscapes. The tranquil environment, paired with the distant sound of whistling trains, provides a perfect setting for relaxation.

### Accessibility

The majority of the museum’s exhibits and facilities are wheelchair accessible. Staff members are always on hand to assist with any additional needs to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.

## Tips for Visitors

- **Check the Event Calendar:** Before visiting, review the museum's event calendar online to coincide your visit with special events or unique train rides.
- **Weather Considerations:** Colorado weather can be unpredictable. Dressing in layers and bringing weather-appropriate gear ensures a comfortable visit, no matter the season.
- **Photography:** Capture memories of your visit – photography is encouraged, so bring a camera to snap pictures of the historic locomotives and stunning views.

## Conclusion

The Colorado Railroad Museum is more than just a collection of trains; it's an immersive journey through history, technology, and the pioneering spirit of Colorado’s railroaders. Whether you're riding the rails on a vintage locomotive, marveling at the craftsmanship of model railroads, or delving into the stories of the past, the museum promises an educational and inspirational experience for all visitors. Whether you're a lifelong rail enthusiast or a curious traveler, this remarkable museum offers a day of adventure and discovery in the heart of the Rockies. Plan your visit today and ride along the tracks of history.