California State Railroad Museum image

California State Railroad Museum

Tourist attraction Museum Rail museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Sacramento


Address

125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States

Website

www.californiarailroad.museum

Contact

+1 916-323-9280

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (4.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: trains (87) museum (78) train (60) history (51) kids (37) great (35) railroad (24) time (23) California (18) experience (18)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jessica Watson (. 4 months ago on Google • 612 reviews
    Such a great day! We got there when it opened, best because way less people. The kids had so much fun with them whole place. Loved the chalk, loved the toy trains, loved the dining car. My ten year old son loved asking all the questions and the attendants were so helpful and sweet. Great place to take kids. There is something amazing about kids just wanting to learn about the mechanics without having to prompt them. Trains are awesome! I've been before so today I just followed so the kids around and let them explore. Magical day!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Victor W. 2 years ago on Google
    Museum was absolutely awesome if you have any interest in history, locomotives or transportation. Absolute love scale model trains, transformational (although mostly automobiles) but still found this museum to be a perfect fit. Also caught a docent led tour which explained some of the important pieces. A particular highlight is they have a railroad stake made with pure gold in the display case. Also got to step inside of one of the steam powered trains another docent explained the controls and history. One more docent led exhibit was the mail sorting train cart and it was awesome to see how mail got efficiently transported throughout the country.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gina S. 9 months ago on Google
    This place is an absolute gem! Don't let the unassuming entrance nor the vaguely disinterested ticket sales clerks fool you, this museum is absolutely amazing! Anyone would enjoy this place, regardless of their affinity for trains! I was truly impressed with every single exhibit. But, my favorite was the train we were able to walk through that had the sound, look, and feel of a train in actual motion. This place is astounding!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M L. 2 years ago on Google
    Quite an amazing, and enormously large place. All the full sized trains are quite massive and they're the real thing, often 100 year old locomotives and other trains that have been painstakingly renovated and look new. The floor is vast, and I lost count of how many trains you can view, with clever, lifesize mannequins of train men through out. Model railroads on the top floor. A really fascinating place that's enjoyable for kids and adults. ALL ABOARD.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yohi S. 9 months ago on Google
    This is a great and well-maintained museum of railroad history in Sacramento, California. We visited on a weekday morning, and there was no rush. Different tickets are available for adults and children. This museum appeals to people of all ages. On Level 1, there is an extensive display of locomotives and carriages from the transcontinental railroad era, providing a fascinating glimpse into railway history. The top floor (Level 3) houses an amazing collection of toy trains, with several of them operational. Additionally, there is a designated train play area for kids. The docents are welcoming and knowledgeable, offering a wealth of stories and information. While excursion train rides are available, it's important to note that these are separate from the museum entrance. Be sure to check out the gift shop, which offers a wide range of collections including toy trains, keychains, books, coins, caps, cups, and more. I highly recommend visiting this museum; it's a worthwhile experience for everyone.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tye B. 1 year ago on Google
    Went here 10/22 with my family. Everyone really enjoyed seeing the trains. We went early on a Saturday morning and had a great time. The docents really make the exhibits come alive as they tell the stories of the era. They have a bunch of exhibits telling the stories of the immigrant workers. There are train rides during the day and various events. Upstairs they have a number of hands on exhibits as well as play area for toddlers with train themes. They also have an extensive collection of model trains which was almost as interesting as the real trains. They are remodeling part of the museum when we visited but it didn’t get in our way.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vanessa 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing! The staff and volunteers are super kind and knowledgeable. Great to spend a day by asking them questions. Price: 12/ adult
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 La N. 1 year ago on Google
    The museum is a great Wealth of information about Railroads, the history and very interesting artifacts. Ground floor has covered many historical events and trains while top floors has great toy trains collection etc and some fun play areas. We especially liked the experience of walking through those train compartments that have the effects to mimic the reality. There were employees dressed as the train staff in the exhibits. They were very patient and answered many questions from children. This visit should be included in field trips if school children. The gift shop is cute but the books were a bit expensive. There’s no food in the museum. The paid parking garage in front of the museum was very good.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin G. 6 months ago on Google
    This was a great experience for everyone. The Railraod museum clearly exceeded our expectations and provided a comprehensive education into the history of the railroad industry. This place is a must-see for the entire family.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kat P. 6 months ago on Google • 31 reviews
    WOW! So much to see - definitely give yourself at least 2 hours (3+ if you want to read everything). Well worth the $12/adult we spent - I would have paid twice as much if not more. Incredible artistry and museum flow. One of the best museums I've ever seen. There are a few different floors (there is an elevator), one of which is all about toy trains. Gift shop had some really cool stuff as well. Afterward, give yourself plenty of time to explore the area - there's so much to do!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 juney j. 2 years ago on Google
    Talk about a view, beautiful historic trains! All trains are authentic! I learned so much in such a short time! Gold Rush days and a plethora of information poured out on these two tours! We had an amazing experience! Twelve dollars doesn't go far in most places but here, It took me back in history and I really was entertained!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lindsay L. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great place to spend a few hours in Old Sac. They have a huge model train exhibit where you can learn all about different mechanics, model scales, brands, and beautifully intricate setups. I love miniature worlds, and these did not disappoint. They also have a few real size train cars that you can explore inside. Some of the cars were temporarily closed, maybe due to maintenance or Covid. I also appreciate that they had an exhibit dedicated to the Chinese railroad workers and their history.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bryan M. 2 years ago on Google
    I really like this museum and it's a big deal if you like railroad history. I first came here five years ago and have returned. I rode the train all the way from Detroit to visit it and it's worth the trip. They have equipment you won't see anywhere else. It's known around the world by railfans and it is easy to see why.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ruofei D. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing collection of historic trains and artifacts in this museum! The museum staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the exhibits were well-maintained and interactive. I especially enjoyed the opportunity to ride on a vintage train and learn about the role of railroads in shaping California's history. Overall, a fantastic experience and a must-visit for anyone interested in trains or history. Five stars!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan C. 9 months ago on Google
    This is a fantastic train museum exhibit wise. Many train museums have a lot of rolling stock including a lot outdoors where as the amount of rolling stock here is more limited but the restoration quality on most of the cars and locomotives is excellent. The layout and displays are in depth and cover the important rail history of California in particular but also generally. In addition to the ground floor displays including a handful of cars you can go through there is an extensive display of model railroads on the third floor. A small children's play area and a 5 car train on tracks on that same level as well. For the price a really great value and place you can spend a few hours with young and old a like.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rt G. 2 months ago on Google • 72 reviews New
    A great way to spend time with family and friends. $12 for this huge selection of trains is one of the best deal museum. Clean environment. Although you can smell the old years from the train.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sebastian T. 2 months ago on Google • 140 reviews New
    First time I go to a railroad museum, but he exceeded all my expectations. If you like learning about stuff or like trains, this is definitely a must stop to do. They have great history from the first train that existed in the United States now to the electric ones. You also learn how the Cole miners used to transport the Cole back in the day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelsey Perez L. 2 years ago on Google
    We visited from Oregon and this museum is amazing! We brought our whole family and there’s so many things to do for adults and children. We were very impressed. The upstairs has a dedicated area for smaller children and has lots of model trains.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eric B. 4 years ago on Google
    Did I mention you don't need to pay to get in here. This is a little store where they have the coolist train stuff in the world. You can go in there and shop and you don't have to pay an admission fee. Unfortunately most of the pictures are of stuff you can see if you pay to get into the Museum and not stuff you can buy. This is definitely the place to go if you are a rail nut like me. Even if you yourself hate trains you can come here and find the perfect gift for the rail fan on uour shopping list.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pang Houa Y. 10 months ago on Google
    Took my 4 kids (ages-gender 17-g, 12-g, 10-g, 7-b), parents and brother here during weekday. $12/adult $6/kids ages 6-17, 5 & under free. Spent total about $80. At the time we visited, there was a group of summer school students. So it was a little crowded but enough where we were still able to see almost everything. Spent about an 1 hr here. All my kids are not train fans but I wanted to take them there for new experiences. My 17-g enjoyed n cruised looking by herself. My 12-g & 10-b somewhat enjoyed but got bored very easily. My 10-g hated and wanted to get out quick. Maybe if your kids are train lovers or enjoy train history then this place would be more for you. Overall the place was clean and they had a few employees on the trains telling you the facts about certain trains. 1st story has plenty of big trains to explore. 2nd story has play area for kids 5-17 to build and draw. 3rd story has play area for only kids 5 & under and more small trains to explore.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nigel E. 2 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    "An enriching visit to the California State Railway Museum! The wealth of historical information and the fascinating array of trains made it both educational and enjoyable. Exploring the exhibits offered a captivating journey through time, providing valuable insights into the rich history of railways. A delightful experience for both history enthusiasts and those simply looking to have a great time surrounded by cool trains."
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jamila (. 2 months ago on Google • 129 reviews New
    I went to the California State Railroad Museum to see a candlelight concert (symphony). The concert was amazing. I was definitely intrigued by the trains. I must go back during regular business hours. If you have kids who like trains, this place is a must-see. The trains are absolutely stunning!

  • 5/5 Suzan R. 3 months ago on Google • 20 reviews New
    This museum is amazing and very interesting and informative about both the good and the terrible in our history of the railroad tracks built across our country and the trains made that changed how people and goods could travel. The museum is very honest about everything that happened to the workers of all cultures, and gives credit to those who were unrecognized, dismissed, and who didn't survive in that era of such hard labor. I feel proud of all the women and those from other countries that showed their strength and grit and worked just as hard as the men leading them, and continued that work when American men went to war. You can listen to the stories and get on the trains in the museum and witness the beautiful and the tough that happened. Docents are throughout who add to the good and the bad stories. I highly recommend this museum. There are also kids' play areas and many small but elaborate train sets for kids and grownups to enjoy viewing, and some to purchase in the gift shop. I highly recommend spending hours at the museum, plus it's located in a great part of old downtown Sacramento with boardwalks, restaurants, music, and shops for taffy, candy, drinks, and much more.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brent P. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing state museum! Kid friendly and filled with big trains, small trains, toy trains, model trains, steam trains, diesel trains, old train and new trains! An incredible place to learn about how train transportation crafted California’s history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J L. 2 years ago on Google
    Exhibits are quite spectacular - authentic, full size trains and beautifully restored locomotives. The toy train exhibit is huge and the models, painstakingly constructed by hand, are very impressive. A must see for every school child.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Roshan R. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent railroad museum with amazing tour guides explaining the history of the California railroad. Totally amazing! The engines and carriages are maintained so well and convey a great visual story for young and old. The toy train section is also extensive and inspiring. Now my kids want to build a model train in our home!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 rickey p. 11 years ago on Google
    There were lots of trains, tidbits of information, and more trains. This might bore some of the younger or short attention spanned people but people that are genuinely intetested in trains should definitely check this place out! There was only one train you can go in and although it was cool--even simulated so you feel like its moving--its the only train you can go in which kinda bummed me out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sally Kasper (. 1 year ago on Google
    Every time I our daughter and granddaughter visit, we always go to the Railroad Museum in Sacramento. Such a cool experience, so many fun trains to see and history to learn. Play train area upstairs for the younger kids. Train cars you can walk through. They have wonderful volunteers and friendly staff. The staff explained to us that it will take 41 hours from Chicago to Seattle.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacky N. 1 year ago on Google
    This is our first visit the state museum and even the first railroad museum for my kids! Very educational and informative for my family about the history of railway in US. It has a free 30 mins tour for guests, the volunteer guide is very nice and informative! At the entrance area, it has an Exhibition shows how Chinese contributed their labour force and lives to build a railway from west to east, for both Canada and United States, 🫡 This museum have so many train engines, very impressed and well maintained! The ticket with every pennies. Highly recommended for family
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott B. 1 year ago on Google
    This museum is simply fantastic! Even if you aren’t particularly interested in trains it is a great place. However, for those of us who do like trains? Fantastic! The only thing that could make it better would be if they could clean the mold and rust off the water fountain mouthpieces, since outside drinks are not allowed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vaibhav V. 1 year ago on Google
    Marvelous museum of railway history in California which all people of all ages should find engaging. The first floor has a large number of locomotives and carriages on display, from the transcontinental railroad times (1870s). The top floor has an amazing collection of toy trains including several that are running. There's also a Thomas the train play area for kids. The docents are welcoming with reams of stories and information. There are excursion train rides available (separate from admission to the museum) on a few days of the week. Strongly recommend going on this.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kommando R. 9 months ago on Google
    This museum is one of the finest in the country. There are certainly larger railroad museums. But this one displays it's artifacts in a stunning and accessible way. They are objective and humane about the terrible experience of the Chinese immigrants who built the railroad across the Sierras. I highly recommend this museum for rail fans and California history buffs alike.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael S. 5 months ago on Google
    A Journey Through Time at the California State Railroad Museum The California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento is a captivating destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. This museum offers a fascinating adventure through the rich history of railroads, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. During our visit, we spent several hours exploring the extensive exhibits. The museum does an outstanding job of bringing to life the era of rail travel, offering a glimpse into the past with its impressive collection of trains and coaches. One of the highlights was the opportunity to step inside most of these historical trains and coaches, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the travel experiences of yesteryears. The staff at the museum are not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable. Their insights and stories about the various attractions, trains, and models added depth to our visit, making it both informative and engaging. They are clearly passionate about their work and eager to share their expertise with visitors. For model train enthusiasts, the museum is a treasure trove. The model train section is vast and intricately detailed, showcasing the fascinating history and craftsmanship behind these miniatures. It was particularly intriguing to learn how these models played a role in the development of actual trains. Located near the historic waterfront of Sacramento, the museum itself is a part of the rich tapestry of the area's history. Its proximity to other historical sites makes it an ideal starting point for a day of exploration in the city. In summary, the California State Railroad Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in trains, history, or just looking for a unique family outing. Its blend of educational content, interactive exhibits, and knowledgeable staff makes it a standout attraction in Sacramento. I highly recommend dedicating a few hours to this wonderful museum – it's a journey through time that you won't want to miss.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alabam_Ka 5 months ago on Google
    The brilliant one !!!! Strongly recommended!!! That how the museum must be like! A wonderful trip to the history) Ехhibits are great, artificial, very interesting. Museum makes you interact with anything there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Liz Krulder K. 7 months ago on Google
    Excellent museum! I hadn’t been since a 4th grade field trip, and it was better than I remembered. There were more interactive experiences and activities. My toddler absolutely loved it there! He was so excited about looking at all the trains, especially ones we could climb into. He also had a blast in the toy train area for kids. He probably could have stayed there for hours and hours more!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Boi L. 4 months ago on Google
    It's a great place to experience Sacramento's history. Next to the riverbank, you can comfortably admire the scenery and breathe fresh air next to the peaceful river. The impressive trains with ancient buildings are breathtaking to photograph.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mike R. 4 months ago on Google
    Lots of locomotives and cars, some of which you can enter, along with static exhibits devoted to the history of railroads and railroad people. It looked as though the kids in attendance were enjoying themselves, but there definitely are exhibits that older attendees will appreciate more. The Museum not only celebrates trains as amazing machines, but also reminds us of the importance of railroads in our history and culture. It is a member of ROAM, which means that you may be able to obtain free admission if you are a member of a museum that also is part of the ROAM network.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 NP M. 1 month ago on Google • 29 reviews New
    The Smithsonian of Sacramento. A joy for grown ups and kids alike documenting a key industry in US history. The numerous volunteers stationed amongst the trains and carriages dressed up in railroad regalia provided excellent commentary. Well worth admission with multiple interactive displays.

  • 5/5 H & T M. 4 years ago on Google
    The best place to visit while in Sacramento. The staff and may I say volunteers are amazing! I don't remember the gentleman's name he's in his late 80s and he has been volunteering there I believe almost 32 years he was such a delight.

  • 5/5 Douglas R. 4 years ago on Google
    This is a clean and well-maintained exhibition. The staff is friendly and polite. They are knowledgeable and give you a good insight into the history of railroading in California. If you haven't been by all means go.

  • 5/5 Beth R. 4 years ago on Google
    It is really a neat experience for all ages and kind of a go-to place for us when we have visitors in town. In addition to a number of really interesting trains on permanent display, they also have a gallery that rotates frequently. It is a fun place to learn about railroad history. They have a nice model train display upstairs and a newly revamped kids' play area. After the visit, you can walk around old Sacramento.

  • 5/5 Laurel C. 4 years ago on Google
    I visited this museum over 4 years ago and I have never forgotten it. I got the opportunity to go again and it's still as impressive as the first time I went. I love trains and this museum had really taken care of the trains they have. It's all set up in a very interesting way with a nice flow to it. The docents have so much information and definitely have a passion for trains & history. It you or anyone in your family likes trains or history - this place needs to be on your list. The trains are well maintained compared to other train "museums" I've been to where they have become rusty. They also have lots of great artifacts.

  • 5/5 Sarah G. 4 years ago on Google
    My husband and I watched the film and then took the tour with Earl (sorry if we got the name wrong!) before exploring the big room with the train exhibits on our own. We would recommend the film and tour although the tour is probably better for adults than kids. Earl gave a very interesting tour. The trains on display are amazing to see!

  • 4/5 Franco P. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing to infinity. Nothing bad. ?

  • 5/5 robert M. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent museum make sure to visit this. Do it early before 3:30pm. Street folks come out about that time. Many static displays of engines, good history of California railroading presented. They have a floor dedicated to model trains with kid friendly activities.

  • 5/5 Ann Marie L. 4 years ago on Google
    Great for kids of all ages! Our sons especially love the "sleeping car" and "dining car", going inside the engine, and playing with the train tables on level 3. A great family stop in Sacramento. Be sure to check out the actual train ride if you're there on the weekends too.

  • 5/5 Aaron H. 4 years ago on Google
    Incredible collection of railroad history. Really well put together. Amazing visit for anyone.

  • 5/5 Jeremy R. 4 years ago on Google
    What a fantastic collection of machines and history. Railroading brought so much of what we take for granted to the west and knowing that history is a treat. The upstairs train model collection is phenomenal too!

  • 5/5 Franci K. 3 years ago on Google
    Verjetno eden najboljših železniških muzejev na svetu.

  • 1/5 Ken B. 3 years ago on Google
    Worked for John Hutsman jr at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and still have the permit. Been through the Copper Canyon National Park Rail way twice and have the pictures, stayed in Creel. This place has rude ☹️ California service by phone. I hope the public does not pay there sallary.! ? ?☎️??⛔?⚠️☢️????????

  • 5/5 Johnnie G. 3 years ago on Google
    Closed right now...covid

  • 5/5 Candace T. 3 years ago on Google
    Located in the heart of old Sacramento, this is one of my favorite places to take my 3 year old. There are countless amount of trains for him to look at, walk through, touch etc. The staff are some of the sweetest, kindest and helpful people i have ever met. Also not to far from the museum, you can purchase tickets to go on an actual train that takes you on like a 20-30 min train ride. This musuem is definitely worth a visit when visiting Sacramento! Please give me a "like" and follow me

  • 5/5 Morgan B. 3 years ago on Google
    Easily the greatest railroad museum on the West Coast, and one of the best the country has to offer! You could spend hours here and still not see everything they have to offer. A must-see if you’re in Old Sac!

  • 5/5 Christopher F. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best railroad museums in the United States. However, a lot of equipment is stored in the ex-SP shops and out of view except for special tours, of which I always manage to miss somehow. Some of the restored equipment that is sometimes on display I haven’t even seen yet, because the times on display aren’t switched out enough. The ride is quite short, and they paint the locomotives and cars for their somewhat fictional Sacramento Southern Railroad, even though it is a railroad museum.

  • 5/5 Anita R. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Here you can see old trains up close, you have to admit that some really had their charm. (Original) W tym miejscu można zobaczyć z bliska stare pociągi, trzeba przyznać, że niektóre naprawdę miały swój urok.

  • 5/5 jaz c. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a nice museum. You could spend the whole day there. I went on free museum day. It was crowded.

  • 5/5 Christina P. 3 years ago on Google
    Hands down one of the best museums on the West Coast. You will need at least three hours here to see all wonderful exhibits. Highly recommend. Great for all ages and excellent exhibits!

  • 5/5 Matthew W. 3 years ago on Google
    I haven't been here in a long time, but I love it! The trains are so historical and amazing to see. There are so many things and sights to see! You should go here, too!

  • 5/5 Deziruizz 3 years ago on Google
    Been coming here since I was about 10 and always learn something new. I love how they share facts.

  • 5/5 Tami H. 3 years ago on Google
    My husband and I enjoyed the history

  • 5/5 Cary B. 3 years ago on Google
    If you've ever had the privilege of riding in a stagecoach, pulled by four galloping horses, you know how uncomfortable and dusty it can be. (I've worked on Westerns.) 600 horsepower locomotives allowed fast, comfortable travel. But a train without tracks is just a hunk of steel. It took thousands of incredibly hard working people to connect rails of steel, from the waters of the Atlantic, across the great plains, crossing rivers, bridging canyons, and tunneling mountains, to the goldfields of California. Here, elegantly presented in dioramas, charts, maps and photography is the history of the men and woman that perform the Herculean tasks that led to the joining of the rails at Promontory Summit, Utah. Completing a transcontinental continental railroad connecting the East and West Coasts of the United States into one nation. With incredible craftsmanship the museum's docents have restored locomotives and specialty cars from America's past. A large screen movie, available at no charge, helps you enjoy what the museum has to offer. Be sure to check out the dining car, club car, and sleeping car. The sleeping car has moving images outside the windows, a mechanism to shake the car, and the sound of the clicking wheels crossing the expansion joints in the rails. It's intoxicating. So, if you want to relive Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest," the Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint movie, here's your chance. But, please don't steal the Porter's key. On the museum's high second floor is an expansive electric train display. The model train I had as a child, a Lionel locomotive, boxcars and a red caboose is there. Running on longer tracks than this child ever imagined. The view from the third floor balcony of the full-sized locomotives and specialty cars should not be missed. One simulation I found particularly enjoyable was acting as the engineer on the developing California high-speed train system. After admission, there are no additional charges for any exhibit in the museum. On the first floor, is a moderately priced gift shop stocked with California and railroad books and souvenirs. Your entire family will enjoy this well maintained museum. There is something special about trains, be they big or small, that children and adults find fascinating. There's lots of things to touch and climb, and docents to explain how things work. Many of the docents, now retired from railroading, share their experiences. Children and adults find these moments fascinating. Everything is wheelchair-accessible. There are ramps and elevators as necessary. Although, some of the lovingly renovated cars are difficult. The museum does not have a cafeteria. But good food choices are available in Old Sacramento, just a few steps away. Inexpensive parking in a public lot, is across the street.

  • 5/5 Diego Suarez G. 4 years ago on Google
    It is very cool and fun for train lovers!

  • 5/5 Eleonor B. 4 years ago on Google
    Education.

  • 5/5 Bruce L. 4 years ago on Google
    Well designed, great displays, knowledgeable docents, friendly folks. A place to while a way time.

  • 5/5 Garrett C. 4 years ago on Google
    A wonderful museum a d constantly updated

  • 5/5 Richard D. 4 years ago on Google
    I love old trains.

  • 5/5 Brendan W. 4 years ago on Google
    Great railway museum, interesting, detailed and informative exhibits.

  • 5/5 Nick A. 4 years ago on Google
    Always a great visit with our kids or visitors! Lots of rail road history in Sacramento.

  • 5/5 Wesley S. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting and fun. My children enjoyed the life sizes models and period clothing they wore.

  • 5/5 kim b. 4 years ago on Google
    If you are into trains or just think they are interesting - this is a must see!

  • 5/5 David B. 4 years ago on Google
    Definitely brings back memories. Loved every moment within the museum.

  • 4/5 william h. 4 years ago on Google
    Pretty fun if you like trians, still neat if you don't

  • 5/5 SUE C. 4 years ago on Google
    Interesting

  • 4/5 Martin P. 4 years ago on Google
    Some very cool trains, and an interesting timeline to follow. Toy trains was pretty neat also.

  • 5/5 Josh M. 4 years ago on Google
    The bomb!fun fun fun

  • 3/5 Ken S. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place to come with the Family

  • 5/5 Fran L. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing. These locomotives were huge. Many you could board

  • 5/5 Prema B. 4 years ago on Google
    A great museum for train lovers, depicting the history of railroads in the USA.

  • 5/5 Ji S. 4 years ago on Google
    Great museum with lots to see for kids and grownups.

  • 5/5 Tabitha S. 4 years ago on Google
    Great staff very knowledgeable, had so much fun

  • 5/5 Aleksandar D. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It's interesting, but only the staff make it special. I was allowed to talk to a few people and I found everything super interesting. The tours are not read from the note, so they are all different and very informative (the core information is all the same). Even without a tour, you are addressed and amazed with information and facts. You get a lot for your money (Original) Es ist interessant, aber erst die Angestellten machen es zum was besonderes. Ich durfte mit ein paar Leuten reden und ich fand alles super interessant. Die Führungen sind nicht vom Zettel abgelesen, dadurch sind die alle anders und sehr informative (die Kerninformationen sind alle gleich). Auch ohne Führung wird man angesprochen und verblüfft mit Informationen und Fakten. Man bekommt viel für sein Geld

  • 5/5 Soarab Gnlz L. 4 years ago on Google
    great place!

  • 5/5 William M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place

  • 3/5 Michael W. 4 years ago on Google
    It was okay. The layout of the place doesnt flow very well and things can easily be missed. I thought the museum would have more trains on display and more that you can board. There are some locomotives and cars in locked up buildings outside of the actual museum but you cant get close to them. My absolute favorite part of the museum was the sleeping car. I loved how they simulated traveling s At speed on the car with the rocking of the car and the road crossing simulation. That is something I wish more museums would do also enjoyed the the striped emd loco so you could see the mechanical workings

  • 5/5 Carlos C. 2 years ago on Google
    Our visit today was really nice we got to revisit with our second child and our first is now older so both were able to experience all the full and historical stuff Overall we had a wonderful time and everything was great plus the price was reasonable for all 4 of us Thank you so much crew members and staff!!

  • 5/5 Jen K. 2 years ago on Google
    Fun for adults and kids! We love the 3rd floor area where they have miniature railroads and some histories.

  • 5/5 Coty G. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a great time! The second floor doesn't have much on it. But the other floors are full of awesome trains to see! Had a great time!

  • 5/5 Jennifer M. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to take out of state/town friends and family if you love history and trains! Amazing display of model trains and a neat kids area to let them run around and play.

  • 5/5 אחד שאין לו �. 1 year ago on Google
    Very fun for the family and a load of grat historical information. The renovations will certainly bring even more delight to the experience.

  • 5/5 Scott A. 2 years ago on Google
    I love Railroads and everything about them. One of many great points of interest in the Old Town Sacramento section of downtown right on the river.

  • 5/5 Paul Y. 9 years ago on Google
    My wife and I went to the museum and did know anything about it except it was trains. WOW! The movie was great and all the displays are great. I especially liked the Sleeper Car where it rocked and sounded like you were on the tracks. The Model Train collection was very impressive. My father who is Train nut will love this when he comes to visit. Thanks! We went away with a new appreciation of Trains.

  • 5/5 Kliff K. 9 years ago on Google
    This is a terrific place to take your kids for an afternoon if you want them to have a great time and learn about California history. The place is absolutely enormous and being able to get up close and personal to some of these huge trains and climb inside them is a once in a lifetime experience. There is also a wonderful program they hold at Christmas time where they simulate the Polar Express experience.

  • 2/5 Stanley L. 9 years ago on Google
    There was only one train you can go in and although it was cool--even simulated so you feel like its moving--its the only train you can go in which kinda bummed me out.

  • 4/5 sanju s. 7 years ago on Google
    Its been a nice place for kids to hang on with bunch of real knowledge...locomotives, railroads & machines etc

  • 4/5 Aaron K. 10 years ago on Google
    Great little museum. Purchased a year membership. Kids love it.

  • 5/5 Ira L. 5 years ago on Google
    A great way to discover our history through trains.

  • 4/5 Mrugesh D. 1 year ago on Google
    Museum is a fun place. Got to see different engines, Railroad post office is a must see.., lot to learn, and kids will have fun. The toy train section is where kids spent most of the time. Dogs not want to leave, only when museum closed is when managed to get the kids out. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Reasonably priced.

  • 5/5 Stephanie L. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a cool experience, so many fun trains to see and history to learn about. Play train area upstairs for the younger kids. Train cars you can walk through. Theg have really gone all out here and they have wonderful volunteers and friendly staff.

  • 5/5 Angela G. 1 year ago on Google
    Kids love this place! Free under 6. Adults are only $12. No food allow inside, so you need to step out for a snack break. Lots to see! Got to see different engines and go in some. The toy train section in the third floor is a must 😊

  • 5/5 Joe C. 1 year ago on Google
    Went here with my son it was by far the best museum I have been to in the country. They had an entire section dedicated to model trains. Very informative and easy to navigate. We took two and half hours to tour. Awesome museum!

  • 5/5 Debs M. 10 months ago on Google
    Excellent! My hubby loves railways in the UK so was fascinated by the Railroad museum. So much to look at and we loved being able to walk through many carriages. The guy in the postal train was very helpful and we enjoyed his information. The toy trains upstairs were great too. Well worth a visit and the $12 entrance fee.

  • 4/5 Kenneth S. 11 months ago on Google
    This is a very good museum. I have enjoyed coming here every time I have visited. There has been something new each time. I did not give it 5 Starz this time as there were no shows in the 1st floor theatre which was disappointing. The museum also needs some work. Bathrooms need some help, there was a missing display with the tape and glue exposed, and one of the cars on displays, (Georgia Northern) has signage to explain what you see inside, but there is no lighting. Inside the car is pitch black. I understand light can hurt things, but put in soft LED. I really enjoyed the rest of the museum. The sleeper car will take you back to the 30's or 40's, or remind you of the scenes in old movies. The dining car had wonderful examples of the rolling restaurant that was the way of rail travel.

  • 5/5 Murali 10 months ago on Google
    Good museum with real trains. Lot of toy trains on the 3rd floor. You could easily spend 2-3 hours. Museum is maintained clean. Entire museum is Wheel chair accessible. There is no cafeteria inside the museum. The museum staff was helpful in answering the questions and clarifications. Nice to visit. Lots of shops nearby area. History museum is also nearby. Make sure you find some parking because mostly it is street parking.

  • 5/5 Emma W. 9 months ago on Google
    Really great museum. Very interesting and there are trains that you can get onto. Make sure to have a chat with the guy on the Mail train hes very interesting

  • 5/5 Oksana B. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful space to spend your day with kids, inside with AC 🥰 kids loved it. Adults love it, and it is fun for everyone. Learned some history, saw some cool things, and of course want to shut out to all the workers there. They do an amazing job.

  • 5/5 Rhishi P. 8 months ago on Google
    Just an amazing experience in the history of railroads. Great for kids, adults, and seniors alike. Parking is easy across the street and you are close to Old Sac.

  • 5/5 Mary R. 6 months ago on Google
    Everyone should take a railroad ride, it doesn't cost much. The trip is short but fun, especially when the train changes tracks on the turntable. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy-go-lucky. I would recommend this excursion to everyone. This was my first ride. It was exciting to discover how it works. Bring the kids. They will truly love it.

  • 4/5 Isa M. 4 months ago on Google
    The venue was great, the experience was great, would definitely attend one in the future! The only reason I didn’t give a 5 star rating was because there was a girl sitting next to me that was distracting us with weird movements and wreaking of alcohol. Other than that, the performance and event itself was fantastic.


Call +1 916-323-9280 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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