Train Buff Bucket-List Getaway

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Hear the shrill whistle signaling you're about to start your train journey as you traverse Colorado's breathtaking scenery on each day of this trip. Starting in Denver, you'll spot wildlife, stay in historic hotels and maybe even soak in a hot spring along the way.

Sustainability Activity
How to Give Back to These Special Places

There are special places and unique vistas around nearly every Colorado corner. You can help ensure these places exist for generations to come by staying on roads and trails, keeping speeds in check, leaving campsites and picnic spots just as you found them, and following instructional signs while you’re out and about in our state.

Day
1
union pacific's #4005 bigboy photo
Activity
Forney Museum of Transportation
Explore one of the largest and most unique transportation collections! See Union Pacific's "Big Boy", Amelia Earhart's Kissel car & special…
Insider's Tip
Head West to Golden

Soak in the views of the Rockies as you head west: Your next stop is the charming town of Golden.

Lunch
Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse
The Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse offers up a full menu of smoked meats and classic American fare with some unique twists, in an historic setting. …
Activity
Colorado Railroad Museum
Bringing Colorado railroad history to life year-round. Stroll the Museum's 15-acre railyard featuring more than 100 historic railcars. Also, tour…
Dinner
Buffalo Rose Saloon
An authentic American West saloon and restaurant featuring some of Colorado's best live entertainment, inspiring indoor and outdoor seating…
Activity
Colpar's Hobby Town — Lakewood

Chug on over to Colpar's Hobby Town in nearby Lakewood to check out their selection of model trains.

Lodging
The Golden Hotel, an Ascend Collection Member
Award-winning hotel overlooking Clear Creek and the Rocky Mountain Foothills, located in historic downtown Golden. This solar powered hotel…
Day
2
Breakfast
Bridgewater Grill
The award-winning Bridgewater Grill, located in an elegant creekside setting and nestled within the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offers…
Activity
Explore Union Station, Denver's Railroad Transportation Hub

Marvel at the architecture and people-watch as folks board their trains at this 100-year-old historic landmark in the heart of downtown Denver.

Insider's Tip
Drive to Georgetown

Drive about 45 minutes west until you reach the former silver-mining boomtown of Georgetown.

Lunch
Mountain Mamas' Needful Things
Mountain Mamas' Needful Things in Georgetown offers a full-service cafe, artisanal treats and gifts.
Activity
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Climb aboard one of Colorado's famous historic narrow gauge railroads. This engineering marvel takes you high over the Devil's Gate Bridge and…
Insider's Tip
Head to Leadville

After riding the Georgetown train, it's time to make the hour drive to Leadville for dinner.

Dinner
Buchi Cafe Cubano Leadville
At Buchi, passion is the most important ingredient, and we hope to bring you a memorable Cuban Cafe experience with every bite (and sip).
Activity
Take a Stroll

Go on an evening walk through Leadville and stop at some of the town's museums along the way.

Lodging
The Historic Delaware Hotel
With lodging, dining and shopping all under one roof, the Delaware Hotel is a one-of-a-kind property in Leadville, if not in Colorado. Perfect for…
Day
3
Breakfast
City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso
We are located in the green brick building in the center of downtown Leadville, just south of the traffic light. The shop is a warm place to relax…
Activity
Leadville Railroad
This Rocky Mountain railroad trip provides incredible views of Colorado's two highest peaks, colorful wildflowers and aspen groves. Enjoy an on…
Insider's Tip
Hop in the Car

You'll need to drive two hours south from Leadville to Alamosa to enjoy your next activities.

Lunch
San Luis Valley Brewing
Offers the finest in craft brews and fine food in an inviting atmosphere.
Activity
San Luis Valley Museum
Museum tells the historical story of the Valley people from Native American, Spanish, Germans, Dutch, Japanese, Cowboys and Farmers to today's…
Dinner
Rubi Slipper
The Rubi Slipper has classic American cuisine, and is open for lunch and dinner. Famous for their $1 Taco Tuesdays, they've extended that special to…
Activity
Cano's Castle
If you’ve ever wanted to see a castle built with beer cans and other scrap metal, here is your opportunity. Located a few miles north of the New…
Lodging
Steam Train Hotel
Welcome to the Steam Train Hotel! Our hotel is located in Antonito, Colorado, part of the San Luis Valley, in the heart of Historic Conejos County…
Day
4
Breakfast
Dutch Mill Restaurant
A favorite for breakfast burritos, as well as other Mexican specialties.
Insider's Tip
The Best Train Ride in America

Be prepared for a full-day ride on the Cumbres & Toltec. The railroad has, twice, been voted "the best train ride in America" by readers of the USA Today. Also, it has been featured in films including "Indiana Jones and the Lost Crusade" and "Hostiles."

Activity
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
All Aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for a Train Ride of a Lifetime! 
Lunch
Midway Lunch

Your journey on the scenic train includes a stop at Osier Station, the midway point, for a hot lunch.

Insider's Tip
Make Your Way to Pagosa Springs

Next up: Pagosa Springs, known for its hot springs, sunshine and small-town vibes.

Dinner
Alley House Grille
Alley House Grille is the premier dining destination in Pagosa Springs offering an elegant but casual atmosphere featuring Global/Colorado style…
Insider's Tip
Stay the Night

After your soak in the hot springs, stay the night at one of the 79 rooms and suites at The Springs Resort.

Lodging
The Springs Resort
Relax and renew at The Springs Resort - hot springs capital of Colorado, with 25 natural geothermal soaking pools, located downtown Pagosa Springs…
Day
5
Breakfast
Cafe Colorado
Sunday specials, giant burgers, mountains of pancakes and much more.
Insider's Tip
Drive to Durango

Your last stop is the town of Durango, founded in 1880 by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad.

Activity
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
Experience the adventure of traveling by a historic steam-powered or diesel locomotive on the same tracks miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old…
Lunch
The Eureka Station
The Eureka Station is a Cornish Tavern operating on Notorious Blair Street in Silverton, Colorado. Our talented team brings a lot of enthusiasm and…
Insider's Tip
Ride the Rails

Get back on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for more adventures.

Dinner
Steamworks Brewing Co.
Steamworks Brewing Co. offers much more than just award-winning craft beer. Our "gastropub" fare includes regional meats and sustainable seafood…
Activity
Downtown Durango
Promoting downtown Durango, from the North Main District to historic downtown.
Lodging
Historic Strater Hotel
THE OFFICE SPIRITORIUM, with its lavish and comfortable décor, can't really be called a bar, saloon, tavern, or lounge but a delightful office…