The United States has a wealth of different destinations for people passionate about
trains and/or railway history. This includes scenic journeys through breathtaking
landscapes – to world-class museums housing rare locomotives.
These locations cater to every aspect of train enthusiasm.
This guide explores 20 of the best spots across the country where train lovers can
immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of America’s railroad heritage.
Strasburg, Pennsylvania
Starting off in Pennsylvania, Strasburg rightfully earned its nickname as the ‘Train
Capital of the East’ with its concentration of railway attractions. Here, visitors can
experience the historic Strasburg Rail Road and also explore the extensive collection
at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.
Durango, Colorado
In Colorado, Durango offers a journey through time and stunning scenery with its
famous Narrow Gauge Railroad. A steam-powered train winds through the San Juan
Mountains, providing passengers with views that have remained largely unchanged
since the 19th century.
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Sacramento, California
Sacramento’s California State Railroad Museum is a testament to the state’s rich
railway history. Its impressive collection of restored locomotives, cars, and excursion
rides along the Sacramento River provides an awesome experience for train buffs.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga combines historical significance with modern charm in its train-related
attractions. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers rides on vintage trains,
while the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel allows guests to sleep in converted train
cars, creating a unique experience for railway enthusiasts.
North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway serves as a gateway to scenic rail journeys through the picturesque
White Mountains. The town’s Victorian-era station, housing a railway museum, adds
a touch of historical charm to the modern-day rail adventures.
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St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis’s Museum of Transportation boasts an impressive array of locomotives and
rail cars that showcase the evolution of train technology. The museum’s extensive
collection provides visitors with a hands-on journey through the history of rail
transportation.
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Green Bay’s National Railroad Museum houses an awe-inspiring collection, including
the world’s largest steam locomotive. The museum’s train rides and comprehensive
exhibits offer visitors a chance to experience the grandeur of America’s railway
golden age.
Ely, Nevada
Ely’s Nevada Northern Railway Museum offers a unique, immersive experience in a
working railroad environment. The museum’s ‘Be the Engineer’ program allows train
enthusiasts to fulfill the dream of operating a locomotive, providing an unforgettable
hands-on experience.
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Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton’s Steamtown National Historic Site preserves the legacy of steam
railroading in America. With its working roundhouse and seasonal excursions, it
offers visitors a chance to step back into the era when steam engines ruled the rails.
Golden, Colorado
Golden’s Colorado Railroad Museum recreates the golden age of railroading with its
extensive collection and scenic setting. The museum’s layout, resembling a railroad
wye, adds an extra layer of authenticity to the visitor experience.
Williams, Arizona
Williams serves as the gateway to one of America’s most iconic train journeys – the
Grand Canyon Railway. The town’s historic district, filled with railway-themed
attractions, complements the scenic train ride to the Grand Canyon.
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Spencer, North Carolina
Spencer’s North Carolina Transportation Museum, located in a former Southern
Railway repair facility, offers a glimpse into the inner workings of America’s railroads.
The museum’s train rides and vast collection provide a comprehensive look at the
state’s transportation history.
Altoona, Pennsylvania
Altoona played a crucial role in America’s railroad history, a legacy that lives on in its
attractions. The Railroaders Memorial Museum and the Horseshoe Curve National
Historic Landmark offer visitors insights into both the human and engineering
aspects of railroading.
Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth’s Lake Superior Railroad Museum, housed in the historic Union Depot,
showcases the role of railroads in the development of the region. The North Shore
Scenic Railroad complements the museum experience with stunning views of Lake
Superior.
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Portland, Oregon
Portland’s Oregon Rail Heritage Center celebrates the city’s railroad history with its
collection of vintage locomotives. The city also serves as a starting point for several
scenic rail journeys, making it a well-rounded destination for train enthusiasts.
Essex, Connecticut
Essex offers a unique combination of rail and river travel with its Steam Train &
Riverboat ride. This dual experience provides visitors with a distinctive perspective
on transportation history in the picturesque Connecticut River Valley.
Chama, New Mexico
Chama is home to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, America’s highest and
longest narrow-gauge railroad. The 64-mile journey through the San Juan Mountains
offers passengers breathtaking views and a taste of 19th-century rail travel.
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French Lick, Indiana
French Lick Scenic Railway provides a variety of themed train rides through the
rolling hills of southern Indiana. The town’s historic district, featuring restored train
cars, adds to the railway atmosphere and charm of the destination.
Roanoke, Virginia
Roanoke’s rich railroad heritage is evident in its impressive attractions for train
enthusiasts. The Virginia Museum of Transportation and the O. Winston Link
Museum offer comprehensive looks at both the technical and artistic aspects of
America’s railroad history.
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore’s B&O Railroad Museum, located in the oldest railroad manufacturing
complex in the United States, stands as a cornerstone of American rail history. The
museum’s collection, including the first mile of commercial railroad track in America,
provides visitors with a foundational understanding of the country’s railway
development.
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Discover America’s Railroads
Each location provides unique insights into the technological advancements, cultural
impacts, and enduring romance of America’s railroads.
By exploring these spots, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the crucial role
that railways have played in shaping the United States and continue to play in its
transportation landscape.
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