Train Museums in the U.S.

I’ve learned over 26 years of travel writing that some of the most surprisingly fun experiences come from hopping aboard a train. If you’ve ever felt the romance of old railroads tug at you, I think you’ll love exploring these train museums. I’ve wandered through these spots myself, and I can tell you—they bring history to life in a way that sticks with you. You get to see vintage engines, touch the past through hands-on exhibits, and sometimes even climb aboard for a real ride. Trust me, it’s more than just a day trip—it’s a little time travel.

Highlights I Recommend:

• I stepped inside restored passenger cars at the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento—and I think you should too. You’ll feel like you're rolling back into the golden age of travel.
• If you want the thrill of a ride, I suggest you head to the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden. I rode a vintage train there and felt like a kid again.
• You’ll want to explore steam power at the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore. I still remember the smell of the engines and the way the floor vibrated beneath me.
• I discovered real rail innovation at the Illinois Railway Museum near Chicago. You’ll be amazed at how far train travel has come—just like I was.
• If you’re into models and miniatures (like I secretly am), the North Carolina Transportation Museum will blow you away. I marveled at the tiny locomotives and sprawling layouts—you will too.

Unique Train Museums: