California State Railroad Museum: Historical and Fun
The California State Railroad Museum is a popular destination in Sacramento for visitors young and old. While the museum prides itself on educating visitors on the history of the railroads in the United States, there is certainly no shortage of fun and excitement for guests.
There is no shortage of things to do while you visit the museum. From train rides to informative exhibits to getting up-close-and-personal with locomotive engines, the California State Railroad Museum has a little bit of something for everyone.
Little ones’ eyes will light up with delight as they board the antique train excursion ride, which departs from the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot in Old Sacramento. This 40-minute ride covers six miles of track on the levees of the Sacramento River, highlighting the sights of Old Sacramento. Tickets are $8 for adults, $3 for kids aged 6-17, and free for kids five and under. A special first-class ticket, which seats passengers in the extra-comfy first class car, is also available for $15.
The museum features exhibits that highlight the building of railroads in America in the nineteenth century and the role they played in the development of the country, the gold rush, the role of women and railroad development, miniature train displays, a comprehensive “history of transportation” exhibit, among dozens of other interactive exhibits and displays.
A popular year-round display is the Polar Express train, which is known to make children smile ear-to-ear. Temporary exhibits within the museum are always changing, so visiting the museum frequently means that you’ll be treated to new displays on a regular basis.
For more information on the California State Railroad Museum, click here.
- by LeeAnn Mullen, Sacramento Reporter for HelloMetro
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LeeAnn MullenLeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.