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Colorado Field Guide Established in 2017

Train Buff Bucket-List Getaway

Train Buff Bucket List Getaway

5 days

More Itineraries

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

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 rotating exhibits. Open year-round Mon.– Sat.10am–5pm ... Read More

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.... Read More

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 exhibit galleries, a renowned library,... Read More

Dinner

Buffalo Rose Saloon

An authentic American West saloon and restaurant featuring some of Colorado's best live entertainment, inspiring indoor and outdoor seating environments and creative cuisine.

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 features a business center, fitness center,... Read More

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 casual, comfortable and contemporary favorites.

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

A Whistle Stop Cafe

Grab-n-go-breakfast menu all wrapped up and ready to go!

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 winds you through a scenic Rocky Mountain pathway.... Read More

Insider's Tip

Head to Leadville:

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

Dinner

Quincy's

Quincys Tavern offers a simplistic menu that features a quality meal at an affordable price.

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 small groups, intimate meetings, reunions,... Read More

Day 3

Breakfast

Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge

Since 1938 it has been voted "local's favorite" over and over again, and has been featured in almost every national newspaper across the country at one time or another. It truly remains as one... Read More

Activity

Leadville Railroad

Spectacular railroad trip in the Rocky Mountains. Incredible views of Colorado's two highest peaks, colorful wildflowers and majestic aspen groves. Escape to the wilderness while enjoying an on... Read More

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. Read More

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 families. Included on the historical journey... Read More

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 every day. Enjoy burgers, salads, chili, nachos,... Read More

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 Mexico border, Cano’s Castle is actually several... Read More

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. Surrounded by the majesty of the Rocky... Read More

Day 4

Breakfast

Dutch Mill Cafe

A favorite for breakfast burritos, as well as other Mexican specialties. Read More

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

USA Today readers voted Cumbres & Toltec the Best Scenic Train Ride in America. Climb aboard this National Historic Landmark for a 64-mile day trip you'll never forget. Our coal-fired steam... Read More

Insider's Tip

Make Your Way to Pagosa Springs:

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

Lunch

Midway Lunch

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

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 fusion cuisine. Read More

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 & Spa

Relax and renew at The Springs Resort & Spa - hot springs capital of Colorado, with 24 natural geothermal soaking pools, located downtown Pagosa Springs. The Springs Resort is the perfect escape... Read More

Day 5

Breakfast

Cafe Colorado

Sunday specials, giant burgers, mountains of pancakes and much more. Read 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 locomotive on the same tracks miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old West took over a century ago. Wind through spectacular and... Read More

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 excitement to offer delicious and new fresh food... Read More

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. Healthy salads, delicious pizzas and spicy... Read More

Activity

Go on a Sunset Tour

Walk around downtown Durango as the sun sets, taking in all of the historic buildings and living heritage around you.

Lodging

Historic Strater Hotel

Built in 1887, the historic Strater Hotel (Historic Hotel of America Founding Member) is one of the West's iconic hotels and a prominent downtown Durango, Colorado landmark located two blocks... Read More