The 30 Best Railway museums california in California

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.

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.

The Tilden Park Steam Train at the Redwood Valley Railway is a charming tourist attraction located at 2481 Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Orinda, California. Visitors can enjoy a scenic train ride through the beautiful redwood forest, taking in the sights and sounds of nature along the way. The vintage steam train offers a unique and nostalgic experience for guests of all ages, making it a perfect destination for families, train enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Come and explore the beauty of Tilden Park aboard the Redwood Valley Railway!

The San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum is a popular tourist attraction located at 1940 Santa Barbara Avenue in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the region, showcasing a variety of exhibits and artifacts that highlight the impact of trains on the local community. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, learn about the evolution of rail transportation, and even take a ride on a historic locomotive. With its engaging displays and interactive activities, the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past for visitors of all ages.

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 Lomita Railroad Museum, located at 2137 250th Street in Lomita, California, is a popular tourist attraction and museum dedicated to the golden age of steam. Visitors can explore a Southern Pacific Steam Locomotive and Tender, a 1910 Union Pacific Caboose, a modern Santa Fe caboose, a 1923 Union Oil Tank Car, and a 1913 Southern Pacific outside-braced wood box car. The museum offers field trips for pre-kindergarten and K-12 school groups, special needs organizations, and senior groups. The institution is committed to authenticity, with detailed research and study going into the depot structures that house the exhibits.

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 San Diego Model Railroad Museum, located in the heart of Balboa Park in San Diego, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for train enthusiasts of all ages. Spanning 27,000 square feet, this museum showcases the rich history of railroading in Southern California through its impressive collection of trains, tracks, and trestles. As a nonprofit organization, the museum relies on generous donations to continue providing educational programs, family celebrations, and groundbreaking exhibits for visitors. To make it accessible for families, children 12 and under now get in for free.

The West County Museum, located at 261 South Main Street in Sebastopol, California, is a small but fascinating museum featuring local history with rotating exhibits. Open to the public for free on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm, this volunteer-run institution showcases the original Pomo native settlers, early agricultural history, and the legacy of horticulturalist Luther Burbank in West Sonoma County. The museum also offers a gift shop and knowledgeable volunteers to answer questions. Currently, the museum's exhibit "So… what's in the boxcar?" delves into the museum's archives, showcasing the bits and pieces collected over the years from the town's residents. Housed in a restored 1917 Petaluma and Santa Rosa Electric Railway Depot, the museum's collection includes over 8,000 photographs and artifacts in a Pacific Fruit Express 'boxcar'. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore Sebastopol's rich heritage at the West County Museum.

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.

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.

The California State Railroad Museum is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 125 I Street in Sacramento, California. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of railroads in the state of California, showcasing a collection of historic locomotives, train cars, and artifacts. Visitors can learn about the importance of railroads in shaping the state's development and economy through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also offers train rides and special events throughout the year, making it a popular destination for families, history buffs, and train enthusiasts alike. Come explore the fascinating world of railroads at the California State Railroad Museum!

The South Coast Railroad Museum, located in Goleta, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Situated at 300 North Los Carneros Road, the museum showcases a collection of vintage locomotives, rail cars, and artifacts that tell the story of the region's rich railroad history. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about the role of trains in shaping the area's development, and even take a ride on a historic train. Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the South Coast Railroad Museum offers something for everyone to enjoy.

The Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum is a unique and interactive museum located at 5202 Zoo Drive in Los Angeles, California. This institution is dedicated to preserving the history of steam railroading and educating the public about its significance. Visitors can explore a collection of beautifully restored steam locomotives, ride on miniature trains, and learn about the technological advancements that revolutionized transportation in the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum offers a fun and educational experience for all ages, making it a must-visit destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Fillmore & Western Railway Co. is a charming tourist attraction located in Fillmore, California. Visitors can step back in time and experience the nostalgia of riding on a vintage train through the beautiful countryside. The railway offers a variety of themed excursions, including murder mystery dinners, holiday train rides, and scenic tours. The historic trains and scenic views make Fillmore & Western Railway Co. a must-visit destination for train enthusiasts and families alike. With its convenient location at 351 Santa Clara Street, this institution is easily accessible and promises a memorable experience for all who visit.

The Millbrae Train Museum is a charming museum located at 108 California Drive in Millbrae, California. This institution is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of trains and railroads in the United States. Visitors can explore various exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the importance of trains in shaping the country's transportation system. The museum is a great place for train enthusiasts of all ages to learn about the fascinating world of railroads. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, the Millbrae Train Museum is a must-visit destination in the Bay Area.

The Niles Depot Museum, located at 37592 Niles Boulevard in Fremont, California, is a popular tourist attraction and museum showcasing the rich history of the Niles District. The museum is housed in the historic passenger and freight depots, featuring local artifacts and railroad displays. The museum is operated by the non-profit Niles Depot Historical Foundation and is seeking new members interested in local history to become docents. Visitors can explore two new model railroad layouts inside the Museum and Freight House, built and operated by the Tri-City Society of Model Engineers. The layouts depict the communities of Niles and the surrounding Bay Area with a focus on accuracy and detail. The HO scale layout features the Southern Pacific mainline from Niles to San Jose, while the N scale layout showcases the SP and WP mainlines from Niles to Oakland.

Angels Flight Railway is a historic funicular railway located at 351 South Hill Street in Los Angeles, California, United States. Known as the "shortest railway in the world," this iconic tourist attraction offers visitors a unique and nostalgic way to experience the city. Ride the charming vintage cars as they ascend and descend the steep incline, providing stunning views of downtown Los Angeles. Whether you're a history buff, a railway enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and memorable experience, Angels Flight Railway is a must-visit destination in the heart of the city.

The San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum is a captivating destination for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike. Located at 1170 West 3rd Street in San Bernardino, California, this museum showcases the rich history of the city and its important role in the development of the railroad industry. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the early settlement of San Bernardino, the impact of the railroad on the region, and the diverse cultures that have shaped the city over the years. The museum also features a collection of vintage train cars and locomotives, offering a unique glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

California's First Passenger Railroad is a historic institution located at 301 R Street in Sacramento, California. This landmark played a significant role in shaping the state's transportation history, serving as the first passenger railroad in California. Visitors can explore exhibits and learn about the impact of railroads on the development of the state. The institution offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the evolution of transportation in California. With its rich history and educational displays, California's First Passenger Railroad is a must-visit destination for history buffs and railroad enthusiasts alike.

Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site is a fascinating museum and tourist attraction located on Silver Canyon Road in Bishop, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the region and offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of the area. The museum features a collection of historic trains, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the importance of railroads in shaping the development of the American West. Visitors can also take a ride on a vintage train and experience the thrill of traveling on the old railway lines. With its informative displays and interactive experiences, Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site is a must-visit destination for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

Station Railways Goffs is a historic railway station located at 37198-37538 Lanfair Road in California, United States. This charming station serves as a hub for travelers exploring the scenic routes of the region. With its vintage architecture and old-world charm, Station Railways Goffs offers a unique and nostalgic experience for visitors. Whether you are a train enthusiast or simply looking to step back in time, this institution is a must-visit destination. Explore the rich history of the railways and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes at Station Railways Goffs.

Welcome to the Red Car Museum, a captivating journey into the rich history of Southern California's iconic Pacific Electric Railway. Located at 800-840 Electric Avenue in the charming seaside town of Seal Beach, California, our museum offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of electric rail travel. Housed in a beautifully preserved red car trolley, the museum showcases an array of fascinating exhibits, including vintage photographs, authentic railway artifacts, and engaging interactive displays. As a beloved local attraction, the Red Car Museum invites tourists, history enthusiasts, and families alike to explore the pivotal role of the red cars in shaping the region's transportation and growth. Whether you're a railway aficionado or simply looking for a delightful day out, the Red Car Museum promises an enriching experience that celebrates the spirit and legacy of California's transit history. Visit us today and step back in time to discover the stories and innovations that powered a transportation revolution.

The Branch Line is a cozy cafe and restaurant located at 10 4th Street in Santa Rosa, California. With a charming atmosphere and delicious food, it is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or grab a coffee with friends. The menu features a variety of options, from hearty breakfast dishes to savory lunch specials. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, The Branch Line has something for everyone. Come visit us and experience the warm hospitality and tasty cuisine that have made us a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Tom's Depot is a unique institution located at 991 Fremont Avenue in Los Altos, California. This establishment is a combination of a food joint, restaurant, and store all rolled into one. Offering a diverse range of culinary delights, Tom's Depot is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking to satisfy their cravings. From freshly prepared meals to a variety of grocery items, this institution has something for everyone. Come and experience the charm of Tom's Depot in the heart of California.

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.

Old Poway Park & Railroad is a charming and historic park located in Poway, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a glimpse into the past with its beautifully preserved buildings and vintage railroad. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, explore the historic structures, and even take a ride on the Poway-Midland Railroad. The park also features a variety of events and activities throughout the year, making it a fun and educational destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, train enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Old Poway Park & Railroad is a must-visit destination in Southern California.

The Mad River Slough Train Trestle is a historic railway bridge located in Arcata, California, United States. This iconic structure spans the Mad River Slough and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and wildlife. The trestle is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and history buffs alike. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a glimpse into the past, the Mad River Slough Train Trestle is a must-see destination in Northern California.

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.

Travel Town Railroad is a charming museum and tourist attraction located in Los Angeles, California. Situated at 5200 Zoo Drive, this institution is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore a collection of vintage locomotives and railcars, as well as interactive exhibits that showcase the rich heritage of rail travel. Visitors can also enjoy train rides around the grounds, making for a fun and educational experience for all ages. Don't miss the chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of trains at Travel Town Railroad.