Starting December 20 through January 1, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad invites guests to experience the holidays in a way few ever will, aboard our Luxury Gourmet Train Experiences, an exclusive First Class journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes in the American West.
Traveling through the Royal Gorge is already considered one of Colorado’s most scenic train rides, a bucket-list experie
nce that draws visitors from around the world. For a very limited time this holiday season, we are elevating that journey even further, offering guests the opportunity to experience the gorge in true First Class style, combining world-class scenery, elevated dining, and timeless railroad elegance.
This is not simply a train ride. It is an immersive culinary and scenic experience designed for those who want to celebrate the holidays with intention, indulgence, and unforgettable views.
Luxury Dining Meets Legendary Scenery
Your experience begins the moment you step aboard one of our First Class gourmet railcars, thoughtfully designed for comfort, intimacy, and refined service. From the polished interiors to the attentive onboard staff, every detail is curated to feel elevated yet welcoming.
Guests are greeted with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, setting the tone for a relaxed and celebratory journey. The three-course dining experience unfolds as the train glides along the Arkansas River, deep into the heart of the Royal Gorge.
The meal begins with a crisp wedge salad, paired with warm French rolls and butter, a classic and comforting start that allows guests to settle in and take in the views. From there, guests choose from a menu of chef-crafted entrées, including:
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Colorado Prime Rib
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Chicken Marsala
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Atlantic Salmon
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Buffalo Short Ribs
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Vegetarian Chef’s Selection
Each dish is prepared with care and intention, offering flavors that feel indulgent, seasonal, and distinctly Colorado.
To complement the meal, guests may select from our Conductor’s Reserve Wine List, or enjoy handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, and local microbrews from our full bar. Every pairing is designed to enhance both the meal and the moment.
The Royal Gorge, Reimagined in First Class
During your gourmet train ride, guests are invited to step onto the open-air car at any time, drink in hand, to fully experience the canyon’s scale, fresh mountain air, and sweeping winter views. After a romantic dinner or leisurely lunch, there is nothing quite like standing beneath towering canyon walls, watching the river flow below, and feeling completely immersed in the beauty of Colorado.
It is a rare blend of historic rail travel, natural wonder, and modern luxury, a combination that defines the Royal Gorge Route Railroad experience.
A Limited Holiday Experience Designed to Sell Out
These Gourmet Lunch and Dinner Experiences are available aboard our Santa Express Train and Holiday Train only from December 20 through January 1. Due to the intimate nature of First Class dining, seating is extremely limited, with very few tables available on each departure.
This experience is ideal for:
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Romantic holiday dates
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Special celebrations
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Visitors seeking an elevated Colorado experience
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Locals looking to celebrate the season in a truly memorable way
As Colorado as it gets, and as luxurious as you would want it to be, this is a holiday experience designed for those who value exclusivity, exceptional dining, and once-in-a-lifetime views.
Reserve Your First Class Holiday Ride
Availability is limited and these gourmet holiday train rides are expected to sell out quickly. Early reservations are strongly recommended.
Reserve your First Class Gourmet Train experience today and celebrate the holidays aboard one of Colorado’s most iconic and luxurious train journeys.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard.


