Illinois Railway Museum
Wheelchair accessible
America's largest rail museum, offering a 'Museum in Motion' experience with a vast collection of historic railway equipment.

๐Ÿ“œ Largest railway museum in the United States, located on 100 acres with over 20 structures.
๐Ÿ” Features historic trains, buildings, and an immersive rail travel experience.

Why Go

๐Ÿš‚ Ride historic steam, diesel, and electric trains
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Family-friendly with a train-themed playground and special events like Thomas the Tank Engine
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Explore historic structures like the 1851 East Union Depot
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Enjoy a 1930s roadside diner with panoramic streetcar views

Why Avoid

๐Ÿšซ Closed Friday-Thursday outside of specific operating seasons
๐Ÿพ No pets allowed except service animals
๐Ÿ‘• Outdoor museum, dress appropriately for the weather

Tips

๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Free parking available
๐Ÿงบ Visitors are welcome to bring their own food for picnics
๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ General admission tickets include unlimited train rides

Cost

๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission prices TBD for 2026, children under 2 are free.

Hours

๐Ÿ•’ Operates seasonally from March to October on weekends, and weekdays Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Hours vary by season, check calendar for specific dates.

โ™ฟ Wheelchair

Major portions of grounds, exhibit barns, and some trains are wheelchair accessible.

๐Ÿšป Toilets

Available in East Union Depot and Central Diner.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Food

Central Diner open seasonally; visitors can bring own food.

Last updated 1 day ago

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