There’s a certain fascination and interest we have on trains that is sparked at an early age. Perhaps it’s the sense of adventure they invoke or the artistry and engineering that draws our attention. Whatever that reason may be, there’s no better place to unleash your inner rail fan than at the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento. It’s full of restored engines, locomotives and railroad artwork, a complete sanctuary of all things trains.
A little more on California State Railroad Museum
Besides the countless interactive exhibits, researchers and train enthusiasts that want to find out more about the history and evolution of the railroad can head to the Library & Archives, open Monday through Friday. The archives have extensive collections that preserve and provide access to the history of the railroads, so feel free to check them out.
What can you do at the California State Railroad Museum?
Every Monday at 11 am, the weekly and family-friendly Story Time takes place that comes free with admission. You can also choose to hold your next school trip at the museum, which offers in-person and digital educational programs for children. If you decide to bring your little ones and you need to recharge, the neighborhood and nearby streets offer various dining options, from pizzerias to steakhouses.
Are you looking for a new and maybe unconventional plan? Then you should definitely attend a classical tribute under candlelight at this very museum, as you’re surrounded by railroad history. Listen to the works of great composers like Vivaldi or sway to T. Swift’s pop beats and many more. As thousands of candles twinkle at the impressive museum filled with locomotives, you’ll feel like you’ll be transported to other worlds at a California State Railroad Museum Candlelight concert!
What is the largest train at the California State Railroad Museum?
At 123 feet long and 16 feet high, the biggest train at the museum is the Southern Pacific articulated cab-forward No. 4294.
Can you just turn up at the California State Railroad Museum?
You can buy your tickets on entry, but booking them in advance is recommended. The museum is open every day from 10am-5pm, and last admission is at 4:30pm.
How much are California State Railroad Museum tickets?
Adult tickets cost $12 while tickets for children aged between 6-17 cost $6. Children aged five and under as well as members of the museum can enter for free.
Situated right next to the Sacramento History Museum along Sacramento River, the museum’s convenient location right off of downtown makes it easily reachable by everyone. To get there you can take the 102, 30, 38, 63 and 88 buses and the Blue and Gold Light Rail. If you’re coming from outside Sacramento, take the Capitol Corridor train to the Sacramento Valley Amtrak Station.
Now, at the museum you can visit its thrilling exhibits and catch an inspiring and intimate concert amid a sea of candles. You can also experience these magical concerts at several other venues across Sacramento.