Set in the heart of Old Sacramento State Historic Park, the California State Railroad Museum is a love letter to the iron horse and the people, technology, and stories that built the American West.
Widely regarded as one of the finest railroad museums in the world, it blends awe-inspiring artifacts with immersive storytelling to show how rail transformed California and the nation.
Whether you’re a lifelong railfan or simply looking for a rich, family-friendly day out, this museum delivers a memorable experience year-round—and during the holidays, it becomes the stage for The Polar Express, a beloved train ride that sells out year after year.
Why the California State Railroad Museum belongs on your list
Unrivaled collection: Inside the expansive museum building, you’ll find meticulously restored locomotives and rail cars spanning more than a century of innovation. From 19th-century wood-burning engines (notably Southern Pacific 4-2-4T #1, the “C.P. Huntington,” originally built in 1863 for the Central Pacific Railroad) to powerful steam giants (such as Southern Pacific “Cab Forward” 4-8-8-2 #4294) and early diesels, each piece is presented with attention to detail, context, and craftsmanship. Many cars are open for you to explore, including sleeping, dining, and mail cars that reveal what life was like on the rails…