There is something so fun and magical about riding on a train… wouldn’t you agree? Even though trains are no longer as popular as they once were, these nostalgic treasures can still be found in and around the city, with these four railroads even offering some of the most interesting day trips near Denver by train, the likes of which you will not find anywhere else. Let’s check out these Denver train rides!

1. Georgetown Loop Railroad, Georgetown
Georgetown Loop Railroad/Facebook
Georgetown Loop Railroad, 646 Loop Dr, Georgetown, CO 80444, USA
Georgetown Loop Railroad Facebook
Located less than an hour from the Mile High City, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is a historic gem that offers a number of special events, including a one-of-a-kind Oktoberfest, Santa's Lighted Forest, and Fourth of July rides! Among the train rides you can take is a mine tour with gold panning, a murder mystery train, and Wild West Days. It's one of the most unique things to do around Denver.
2. The Broadmoor, Manitou & Pike's Peak Cog Railway, Manitou Springs
The Broadmoor, Manitou & Pike's Peak Cog Railway
Since the late 1800s, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Manitou Springs has been providing locals and tourists alike with a fun and easy way of traveling this iconic 14,115-foot Colorado summit! It's one of the best day train trips from Denver (or near Denver) you can take with the family. (Fun fact: The 8.9-mile trek takes a surprising three hours to complete, so plan to make a day out of your expedition).

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3. Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden
Colorado Railroad Museum Facebook
Colorado Railroad Museum, 17155 W 44th Ave, Golden, CO 80403, USA
Colorado Railroad Museum Facebook
Not only does this impressive railroad museum offer daily rides around a 15-acre railyard, but it is also home to an impressive collection of model trains, historic engines, and a whole lot of other fun surprises that you do not want to miss. You can book your tickets on the Colorado Railroad Museum website for one of the best day trips near Denver.
4. Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Canon City
Royal Gorge Route Railroad/Facebook
Royal Gorge Route Railroad, S 3rd St, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Facebook
Last, but certainly not least, is the unforgettable Royal Gorge Railroad, which is the ideal excursion for any date night, luncheon, or family outing! It's one of the most memorable day trips near Denver. The distance from Denver to Canon City is only a mere two hours.

Wouldn’t you agree that these are some of the most unique day trips near Denver, by train or otherwise, that you’re going to find? In the comments, tell us about your favorite train ride around the city! For even more railroad fun, check out this epic train ride near Denver that will give you an unforgettable experience.

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips Near Denver

Melissa M. | July 06, 2022

What are some of the most unique things to do around Denver?

There are so many unique things to do in and around the Mile High City. Why not take a day trip from Denver to Dillon where you’ll find a reservoir and the Frisco Bay Marina? Here, you can rent a boat and spend the day out on the water. Colorado Springs is a town that’s completely worthwhile to spend some time in. Explore the downtown area filled with shops and restaurants, take a ride with the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and view Seven Falls, a natural wonder that’s so close to Denver.

What road trips can I take from Denver?

With stops in and around the Denver area, our haunted road trip to the scariest places in Colorado may be of interest to those of you who enjoy a good scare. Denver’s Cheesman Park is just one stop along the way. Perhaps you’re more interested in seeing some of the best waterfalls in Colorado, some of which are close to the Mile High City.

Are there any train museums near Denver?

Everyone loves trains so let’s visit one of the city’s train museums! Fun for kids and adults of all ages, the Forney Museum of Transportation not only has a collection of trains but vintage cars, aircraft, motorcycles, and other forms of transportation. 

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