Royal Gorge Railroad Offers 20% Off for Memorial Day

Carlos Rodríguez · 2026-05-20

### A Historic Ride Gets a Hero's Discount Memorial Day is right around the corner, and the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is rolling out a special offer that feels just right. This iconic Colorado train, which has been chugging through the stunning Royal Gorge since 1879, is honoring active military members and veterans with an exclusive 20% discount on all tickets for rides on May 25. It's a small gesture for the big sacrifices our service members make, and it's timed perfectly with America's 250th Anniversary celebrations. If you've never taken this trip, picture this: you're sitting in a vintage railcar, winding through a canyon where the walls soar over 1,000 feet high. The Arkansas River rushes below. It's the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the train pulls back into the station. And now, it's a little more affordable for those who've served. ### What's the Deal, Exactly? Here's the breakdown so you know exactly what to expect: - **The discount:** 20% off all ticket types for rides on May 25 only. - **Who qualifies:** Active military members and veterans (proof of service may be required at check-in). - **Why it matters:** This isn't just a sale. It's part of the railroad's tribute to America's 250th birthday. They're calling it a "Salute to Service" day, and honestly, it feels like a genuine nod to the people who keep our country safe. But you might be wondering: is this deal worth the trip? Let's break it down a little more. ### Why May 25 Is the Perfect Day to Ride May 25 falls right in that sweet spot of late spring. The weather in Colorado is usually mild, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The canyon walls are starting to green up, and the river is running strong from snowmelt. It's arguably one of the best times of year to see the gorge in all its glory. Plus, Memorial Day weekend is all about reflection and gratitude. What better way to honor the meaning of the holiday than by spending it on a train that's been part of American history for nearly 150 years? The Royal Gorge Route isn't just a tourist attraction. It's a living piece of the past, and riding it feels like stepping into a story. ### What You Need to Know Before You Go If you're planning to snag this deal, here are a few things to keep in mind: - **Book early.** The discount is for one day only, and tickets tend to sell out fast, especially for holiday weekends. - **Choose your car wisely.** The railroad offers everything from standard coach to luxury dome cars. The 20% discount applies across the board, so you can splurge on a premium seat without breaking the bank. - **Arrive early.** Parking can fill up, and you'll want time to explore the depot and grab a coffee before boarding. The ride itself lasts about two hours, covering 24 miles round trip. You'll cross the famous Royal Gorge Bridge (the highest suspension bridge in America, by the way) and get views that are absolutely worth the drive. ### A Quick Word on the 250th Anniversary This deal is part of a larger celebration. The railroad is marking America's 250th Anniversary with a series of events throughout the year, and the Memorial Day discount is just the beginning. If you miss May 25, keep an eye on their schedule. There might be more offers coming down the track. But here's the thing: discounts like this don't come around often. The Royal Gorge Route isn't known for slashing prices. It's a premium experience, and normally, you're paying full freight for the privilege. So when they offer 20% off, it's worth jumping on. ### Final Thoughts Look, I get it. There are a million ways to spend a holiday weekend. But if you're looking for something that combines history, natural beauty, and a genuine thank-you to our military, this is it. The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is doing something right by offering this discount. It's not just about saving money. It's about recognizing the people who make days like Memorial Day meaningful. So if you're a veteran or active duty, grab your ticket. Bring your family. And enjoy a ride that reminds you why this country is worth celebrating. *Note: This offer is valid for May 25 only. Proof of service may be required. Check the railroad's official website for full terms and conditions.*