Railroad museum ideal stop for spring break

Colorado owes a lot to the iron horse.

When you think about it, the railroad has shaped almost every facet of our state from commerce and industry, to politics, to technology and immigration.

And while travel by rail may not be as prevalent as it was in years past, Colorado Railroad Museum Deputy Director Rob Kramer says trains are a great way to learn more about the state’s history as well as its future.

“Trains are definitely not a thing of the past,” he said. “We still move more goods and services across this country via train than we do by truck.”

Listed among Vist Denver’s Must-See Attractions, the Colorado Railroad Museum is a great family destination for spring break.

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With more than 100 narrow and standard gauge locomotives, vintage cabooses, and railcars, visitors can see touch, and ride aboard Colorado’s railroad history.

Train rides are among the biggest draws to the museum.

“These are authentic, historic locomotives with historic equipment running behind them,” said Kramer. “So you get really get to experience what it was like to do train travel through Colorado back through the last couple of hundred years.”

Part car, part train, the Galloping Goose played a big role in how early Coloradans got their mail.

Running a third of mile loop around the museum’s 15-acre property, a Goose ride is a must.

Only seven geese were built and the CRM is home to three.

A replica 1880s-style depot is home to the museum’s many rotating exhibits, including an expansive HO model train display.

What can spring break visitors expect from the CRM?

Along with running trains, Kramer says the museum has an incredible lineup of interpretive historical programs with actors portraying classic characters from Colorado railroad history.

“The railroad is what founded Colorado,” Kramer said. “And knowing that story helps you appreciate what it is to be a Coloradan, and you know, it’s a part of our history that’s not told enough.”

The Colorado Railroad Museum is located in Golden at 17155 W. 44th Ave. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 303-279-4591or visit www.coloradorailroadmuseum.org.