I just replaced an old wood deck with a colored stamped-concrete patio; they also applied a thin coat to the existing concrete steps and stamped and colored it, too, so it matches. I'm not a concrete-repair expert, but I would think that, if the steps are in decent condition but just don't look good, you could have this done. It isn't cheap because it's labor-intensive. But it adds a nice look, IMHO. (Sorry -- no pictures yet. They're not completely done with it yet.)

One option would be to set exterior grade porcelain tile on the horizontal planes-- steps and landing-- and apply a complimentary color concrete stain to the verticals. By applying a base color of stain and then ragging on a slightly lighter or darker second color, you can give the risers visual interest and depth of color.

As regards the railing-- If the bolts are rusted or the posts are set into the concrete, cut off the wrought iron with a reciprocating saw and grind what remains til it's flush with the concrete. Drill the concrete with a masonry bit to set anchors with either mortar or epoxy for the new wood railings. Hope this helps.

I had a stone mason apply blue stone on top of concrete steps at my husbands office. It wasn't that expensive and it looks great! The concrete was in good shape, it just looks a lot better now.