Colorado has been a transportation crossroads for over 200 years. Railroads were a pivotal part of Colorado starting in 1858. In 1870, in the town of Strasburg, the last spike was driven into the first transcontinental railroad extending from east to west.
Where a place has been had relevance to where it is going.
On the way skiing, you might go to Golden, Colorado, have a tour of Coors brewery, or even visit Buffalo Bill’s grave. Another historical treasure experience is the Colorado Railroad Museum. On its own spur, so to speak, the CRM has been going since 1959 and has been expanded three times. It features an extensive main building replicating a Denver & Rio Grande Railway Station. It includes multiple transportation exhibits, old-time photo documentation and even model trains. Even if you have never slept on a train, the Pullman Exhibit will give you a view to sleeping on long train journeys. George Pullman spent time in Golden as he developed the famous railroad sleeping car. Weekly train rides give you an up close and personal experience with the past.
Because of the treacherous terrain along passes, mountains, and rivers, narrow gauge trains were the option to hug the mountain land in Colorado. The CRM features 100 locomotives, which can operate on its circular track. The complex boasts significant model train exhibits where you might get a better sense of scale.
And, like any museum that bridges the gap from then to now, some events hit the multi-generational note. One of their most popular every year is an up-do of the Polar Express™. The book by Chris Van Allsburg set the stage for the movie, and the film then inspired actual train rides at Holliday time at locations around the U.S. and Europe. When a bit warmer, the all family special event is Day Out with Thomas.
The Express production is a cabaret-style show that is family-friendly and warmed up with cookies and hot chocolate. It starts with a lively production, carols, and the “Hot Chocolate” song. For the last part of the show, you climb aboard the Polar Express™ and head to that icy pole complete with elves and the quintessential, red-suited big dude. I was a little skeptical as I was not wearing pj’s and a robe for a ride with people I didn’t know. Even for the adults, it was a holiday hoot.
The CRM is a history blast from the past, even for those who don’t have a keen interest in history and tales of transportation. The lineup of special events like the Polar Express™ means there is something for the kids and history buffs all year round. When you get close to these steam engines and other equipment, your amazement with the “Iron Horse,” like steam rises.