Adventure brief
Polar Express: Standard Seating
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.
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.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in Layersessential
Temperatures can drop inside open-air cars—bring warm layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.
- 02Book Earlyessential
This popular seasonal experience sells out quickly; reserve tickets well in advance to secure your seat.
- 03Arrive Earlyinfo
Give yourself time to explore the Colorado Railroad Museum exhibits before boarding the train.
- 04Plan for Limited Accessibilitywarning
Standard seating cars may have limited wheelchair access; check ahead if accommodations are needed.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Warm Jacket
Colorado winters are cold and windy, especially on open-air train cars.
winterEssentialGloves and Hat
Keep extremities warm during outdoor wait times and throughout the ride.
winterEssentialCamera 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.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The museum’s extensive collection of historic locomotives just steps from the boarding platform, Nearby Clear Creek Trail offers a peaceful riverside walk before or after your ride
Local fauna
Red-tailed hawks frequent the foothill skies, Mule deer can sometimes be spotted near the museum perimeter
Historic heritage
The Colorado Railroad Museum preserves and operates historic trains to celebrate the region’s rich railroading past dating back to the late 19th century.
Mindful exploration
The museum actively works to preserve railroad heritage while promoting environmentally responsible tourism in Golden’s natural foothill environment.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From inside the open-air train cars, Museum platform overlooking the tracks, Clear Creek Trail nearby for scenic backdrops
- Subjects
- Snow-dusted Rocky Mountain foothills, Vintage steam locomotives, Holiday-themed onboard entertainment
- Best times
- Golden hour during late afternoon light, Twilight for festive train lighting, Morning for clearer mountain views
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
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.