T
he Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden is expanding its footprint with two recent real estate purchases. The 65-year-old organization bought a single-family home on a half-acre lot next door to the existing museum for $740,000. Paul Hammond, executive director of the museum, said this was a fortunate opportunity and they plan to rent out the property.

    The deals come after a $2.4 million land buy in January that Hammond described as a defensive move to stop development on adjacent land. The museum's current 15-acre site is not large enough for its plans, which include creating more indoor exhibits and experiences.

    Hammond wants to create a welcome center with more exhibits and indoor activities, relocate the parking lot, expand the library, and renovate the roundhouse. The museum is in the midst of a 10-year plan to enhance visitor experience, which includes adding year-round space to tell the story of Colorado's railroad history.

    The current layout features a rail line that loops around the property, with visitors riding trains and exploring locomotives and railcars. However, most exhibits are outdoors, including a model train display and a few indoor exhibits. The 5,000-square-foot library is running out of space, and Hammond plans to expand it.

    The museum employs 16 full-time staff members and over 300 volunteers, with attendance likely at an all-time high this year. Hammond aims to provide a more comprehensive experience for visitors by creating a grander space that showcases Colorado's unique railroad history. A formalized vision for expansion is expected by early 2026.