Railroad history in California

The Atchison is a unique institution located in Pittsburg, California, United States. This historic building offers a variety of services and amenities to its patrons, including event spaces, dining options, and community programs. Whether you're looking to host a special event, enjoy a meal with friends, or participate in a cultural event, The Atchison has something for everyone. With its rich history and central location, The Atchison is a must-visit destination in the Pittsburg area.

The Blue Lake Museum is a charming institution located in the heart of Blue Lake, California. Situated at 330 Railroad Avenue, this museum is a must-visit tourist attraction for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. Step inside and explore the rich heritage of Blue Lake through a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. Learn about the town's colorful past and its vibrant community through interactive displays and engaging presentations. Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, the Blue Lake Museum offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of this picturesque town. Plan your visit today and discover the hidden gems of Blue Lake at this captivating museum.

The Pittsburg Historical Museum, located at 515 Railroad Avenue in Pittsburg, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for history enthusiasts. Founded by the Pittsburg Historical Society in 1961, the museum showcases the rich history of the area through a collection of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia donated by early pioneer families. The museum's mission is to preserve and celebrate the history of Pittsburg, ensuring that future generations can learn about the area's past. Admission to the museum is free to the public, as the organization operates as a 501(c)3 non-profit.

Boho Records and Rags is a vintage vinyl record store located in Santa Clarita, California. Step back in time and explore a wide selection of 45s, 33s, and 78 RPM records in various genres. From the Beatles to rare 45s, our store offers a nostalgic experience for music enthusiasts. In addition to vinyl records, we also carry CDs, music memorabilia, and vintage clothing and jewelry. Our family-run business, established in 2018, aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for customers to browse and discover hidden treasures. With a mix of 50s through to the 1980s music, rock concert posters, and vintage audio equipment, our store is a haven for collectors and music lovers alike. Despite challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have reopened our doors and continue to serve our loyal customers. Visit us at 24827 Railroad Avenue in Santa Clarita and experience the magic of Boho Records and Rags.

Welcome to Mount Tamalpais East Peak, a breathtaking park and premier tourist attraction nestled in the scenic landscapes of Mill Valley, California. Located at the end of the Old Railroad Grade Trail, this stunning destination offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Mount Tamalpais East Peak stands as an iconic landmark, offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Pacific Ocean, and the rolling hills of Marin County. Whether you're here to hike, bike, or simply relax and take in the views, this park promises a memorable visit.

Welcome to the Mt. Tamalpais Gravity Car Barn and Visitor Center, a unique museum located at the stunning East Peak of Mt. Tamalpais, accessible via the Verna Dunshee Trail in Mill Valley, California. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic mountain and discover the fascinating story of the gravity cars that once transported visitors down its slopes. Our charming museum offers an engaging experience with a replica gravity car for you to explore, an informative video presentation, and an array of historical photographs that will transport you back in time. Learn about this remarkable mode of transportation and the brakemen who made the thrilling descent possible.

Welcome to Watermen's Plaza, a vibrant park nestled in the heart of Dana Point, California. At Watermen's Plaza, we celebrate the rich history and dynamic culture of this coastal gem, inviting you to explore the captivating stories and scenic beauty that define our community. Dana Point's legacy as a historic seaport is woven into the fabric of our city. Discover the influences of the Spanish and Mexican eras, where the Mission system played a pivotal role in shaping what is now the picturesque Dana Point Harbor. Begin your journey with a visit to our sister city, San Juan Capistrano, and explore the birthplace of Orange County at “The Jewel of the Missions.” Here, you can wander through lush gardens, admire historical artifacts, and enjoy docent-led tours of Mission San Juan Capistrano. For families, the weekday Summer Crafts and Activities offer a delightful experience for children.

El Dorado Western is a well-established clothing store located at 662 Northridge Mall in Salinas, California. Specializing in western wear, this store offers a wide selection of stylish and high-quality clothing and accessories for men, women, and children. From cowboy boots and hats to denim jeans and flannel shirts, El Dorado Western has everything you need to embrace the western lifestyle. With its convenient location and friendly staff, this store is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add a touch of western flair to their wardrobe.

Loomis Station is a historic train station located at 5775 Horseshoe Bar Road in Loomis, California, United States. This charming and well-preserved building serves as a reminder of the town's rich railroad history. Visitors can explore the station and learn about its significance in the development of Loomis and the surrounding area. The station also hosts events and exhibits related to the history of railroads in California. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to experience a piece of the past, Loomis Station is a must-visit destination.

The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, located at 750 Depot Street in Campo, California, is a popular tourist attraction and museum dedicated to preserving railroad history. Visitors can become members to enjoy benefits such as free train rides, discounted gift shop purchases, and early access to special event tickets. The museum is maintained and operated by a dedicated volunteer staff, and relies on support from the community to keep its doors open. During the 35th annual Museum Month in February, the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is offering half-off admission and train rides for walk-up ticket purchases at the Campo Depot. The museum is excited to welcome guests back for the new year, with plans to introduce new equipment, displays, and events for 2023.

Old Sac Shirts & Gifts is a charming store located at 1104 2nd Street in Sacramento, California. Situated in the beautiful Old Sacramento Waterfront historic district, the store offers a unique shopping experience with over 125 shopping, dining, events, and attractions to explore. Whether you're looking for a piece of history or a fun night out with friends, Old Sacramento Waterfront has something for everyone. The district is filled with rich history and offers a variety of activities to enjoy.

Depot Park Museum is a charming and educational institution located in Sonoma, California. Situated at 270 1st Street West, this museum is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the area's past, including displays on the local railroad, agriculture, and indigenous peoples. With its engaging and informative presentations, Depot Park Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Sonoma's fascinating heritage.

The San Francisco Railway Museum is a unique institution located at 77 Steuart Street in San Francisco, California. This museum, store, and tourist attraction is dedicated to celebrating the city's rich rail transit history and the impact of streetcars and cable cars on urban life. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, which include a replica of a 1911 San Francisco streetcar's motorman platform, historic artifacts, archival photography, and interactive audio-visual displays. The museum also features a gift shop with exclusive San Francisco gifts, souvenirs, and memorabilia related to vintage rail transit.

Roaring Camp is a historic amusement park and tourist attraction located at 5401 Graham Hill Road in Felton, California. Visitors can experience a journey back in time as they travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest during the ride. In the 1880s, narrow-gauge steam locomotives were used to haul giant redwood logs out of the mountains, and today, Roaring Camp's steam engines from 1890 provide regularly scheduled passenger service. The scenic train ride takes passengers through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

The Oceano Train Depot, located at 1650 Front Street in Oceano, California, is a historic Southern Pacific Railroad Station that served as the hub of commercial and transportation activities in South San Luis Obispo County from 1904 to the 1950s. Retired from service in 1973, the depot has been restored by volunteers and now serves as a museum and community center. Visitors to the Oceano Depot Museum & Community Center can explore exhibits showcasing the history of the railroad and the local area. The museum is a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the past and the importance of railroads in shaping the region.

The Southern California Railway Museum, located in Perris, California, is a captivating museum and tourist attraction dedicated to preserving the history of railroads in Southern California. Visitors can explore vintage trains, historic locomotives, and railway artifacts while learning about the important role that rail transportation played in the development of the region. The museum offers a unique and immersive experience for all ages, with interactive exhibits, guided tours, and special events throughout the year. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply curious about the rich history of railroads, the Southern California Railway Museum is a must-visit destination.

The Fullerton Train Museum is a captivating museum and popular tourist attraction located at 200 East Santa Fe Avenue in Fullerton, California, United States. This museum showcases the rich history of trains and railroads, featuring exhibits on vintage locomotives, railway memorabilia, and interactive displays. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of historic train cars, learn about the evolution of rail transportation, and even take a ride on a restored steam train. Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the Fullerton Train Museum is a must-visit destination for all ages.

The Eagle Theatre, located at 921 Front Street in Sacramento, California, is a reconstruction of the first building erected in California as a theater. Originally built in 1849, the theater provided entertainment to Gold Rush Sacramentans for a brief three months before being flooded in January 1850. Today, the Eagle Theatre offers educational programs on the history of Old Sacramento to school groups on a reservation basis. Operated by the California State Railroad Museum, the Eagle Theatre is a historic landmark that showcases the rich history of the Gold Rush era in California. Visitors can learn about the early days of Sacramento and the role the theater played in providing entertainment to the rapidly growing population. Experience a piece of California's past at the Eagle Theatre in Old Sacramento.

Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6531 San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including picnicking, hiking, bird watching, playgrounds, and more. The park is open seasonally from November to October, with varying hours. There are parking fees for weekends and holidays, as well as fees for dogs. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers reservable group picnic areas. The park also features a historic indoor/outdoor facility called Fern Cottage, which is popular for events such as weddings and parties. The park is rich in history, once being the site of ranchos and a narrow-gauge railroad. The park was dedicated in 1967 in honor of President John F. Kennedy and is operated by the East Bay Regional Park District. Visit Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.

The Skunk Train & Rail Bikes is a popular tourist attraction located at 100 West Laurel Street in Fort Bragg, California, United States. Departing year-round from Fort Bragg, visitors can enjoy a 7-mile, 75-minute roundtrip along the scenic Pudding Creek Estuary. For a longer journey, there is a 16-mile, 2-hour trip departing seasonally from Willits, taking passengers over the highest point of the line to the majestic Wolf Tree. California Western Railroad is a Class III Common Carrier offering freight service between Fort Bragg and Willits. Visitors can also discover a new side of the world-famous Redwood Route on two-person Railbikes or take a Redwood Train Tour. The institution offers various unique experiences such as the Electric Assist Railbike Tour, Redwood Walking Tour with Lunch, Hidden Bar in the Redwoods, and more.

The Western Railway Museum is a fascinating museum and tourist attraction located in Suisun City, California. Situated at 5848 California 12, this institution showcases a rich collection of historic railway cars, equipment, and artifacts from the early days of rail travel in the western United States. Visitors can explore beautifully restored train cars, learn about the history of the railway industry, and even take a ride on vintage streetcars through the scenic countryside. With its unique exhibits and interactive displays, the Western Railway Museum offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Locke Boarding House Museum State Park, located at 13916 Main Street in Walnut Grove, California, is a historic park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Originally known as the Jack Ross Boardinghouse, it was constructed in 1909 for Chinese men working on the Southern Pacific Railroad. The Kuramoto family operated the boarding house until they were interned during World War II, after which it became the Locke Boarding House in 2008. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Locke Boarding House is part of the Locke Historic District, a Chinese-American community established in 1915. The town of Locke is the largest and most intact surviving example of a historic rural Chinese-American community in the United States. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of the area, as well as enjoy the charm of the town with its alleys, gardens, galleries, and stores.

The Old Train Trestle Bridge is a historic tourist attraction located on Pipeline Road in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Visitors can travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain while conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest. The steam engines at Roaring Camp date back to the 1890s and are some of the oldest and most authentically preserved narrow-gauge steam engines in America. The train departs from the Santa Cruz Mountains, traveling through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Visitors can also take a reverse roundtrip from the beach in Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and back on weekends.

Whistlestop Antiques is a charming and vibrant antique shop located in the heart of Santa Rosa's Historic Railroad Square. With a wide variety of antique treasures spanning 10,000 square feet and 36 talented antique dealers, you're sure to find something special here. From vintage jewelry to Native American artifacts, model trains, and nostalgic toys, there's something for everyone at Whistlestop Antiques. Explore the collections of bakelite jewelry, ephemera, and antique tools, or bring home a piece of history with unique items from local tribes. The shop also offers a selection of products to enhance and preserve your favorite antiques. Step back in time as you browse through the eclectic mix of items, and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of past eras. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for a unique piece for your home, Whistlestop Antiques has something for all ages and tastes. Visit us today and discover why we've been voted the "Best Antique Store" in Sonoma County year after year.

The Skunk Train is a historic institution located at 299 East Commercial Street in Willits, California. This tourist attraction offers a variety of unique experiences, including a scenic 7-mile, 75-minute roundtrip journey departing year-round from Fort Bragg. Passengers can also enjoy a 16-mile, 2-hour trip from Willits to the majestic Wolf Tree seasonally. The California Western Railroad provides freight service between Fort Bragg and Willits. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the Skunk Train offers Railbikes for a new perspective on the Redwood Route. Visitors can also embark on an evening expedition into the heart of the redwoods on Railbikes. The institution also offers Redwood Walking Tours, Redwood Train Tours, and visits to the hidden Glen Blair Bar in the redwoods.

The Fireside Inn Santa Cruz is a comfortable hotel located at 311 Second Street in Santa Cruz, California. This charming lodging option offers modern décor, comfortable furnishings, and top-notch amenities such as in-room temperature controls, flat-screen TVs, WiFi, microwaves, and refrigerators. Guests can enjoy free parking and a friendly front desk staff during their stay. Conveniently situated near the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Fireside Inn is the perfect base for exploring the area's attractions, including the Surfing Museum, Natural Bridges State Beach, and Roaring Camp Railroad. Guests can also visit the Mystery Spot, hike Santa Cruz trails, and learn about the rich surfing history at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.

The San Jose Trolley Barn is a charming museum and tourist attraction located at 635 Phelan Avenue in San Jose, California. This historic venue showcases the city's past through its collection of vintage trolleys and exhibits on local transportation history. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored barn and learn about the role of trolleys in shaping San Jose's development. The San Jose Trolley Barn offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and is a must-visit destination for history buffs and transportation enthusiasts alike.

Niles Canyon Railway is a charming museum and tourist attraction located at 6 Kilkare Road in Sunol, California, United States. Visitors can step back in time and experience the magic of riding vintage trains through the picturesque Niles Canyon. The railway offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing guests to learn about the history of railroads in the area and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Whether you're a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, Niles Canyon Railway is a must-visit destination for all ages.

Walt Disney's Carolwood Barn is a museum and tourist attraction located at 5202 Zoo Drive in Los Angeles, California. The institution is dedicated to preserving Walt Disney's railroad legacy and offers public open days on the third Sunday of each month from 11 AM to 3 PM. Visitors are encouraged to follow @WaltsBarn on Instagram or Twitter for the latest updates. The Carolwood Foundation, which operates the barn, aims to share the love of railroading, educate children on the importance of railroads in American history, and foster an appreciation for railroading. The foundation hosts social events throughout the year, creating lasting friendships and cherished memories for all. Donations are encouraged, but no reservations are necessary for visiting the barn.

El Dorado East Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 7550 East Spring Street in Long Beach, California. This park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including lakes with paddleboats, group picnic areas, overnight camping facilities, and bicycle and walking trails. The park is divided into two areas: Area II and Area III, each offering unique features such as an archery range, model train ride, and fire station designed by Louis S. Miller. Visitors can purchase daily or annual passes to access the park, with different rates for weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Pedestrians and bicyclists do not have to pay a vehicle entrance fee. The park is open from November 1st to February 29th from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., with the last vehicle entry permitted 30 minutes prior to closing.