Is Illinois Railway Museum worth visiting?

Yes, it is America's largest rail museum and offers a unique "Museum in Motion" experience with interactive exhibits and rides on historic trains. It's dedicated to preserving and operating historic railway equipment, making it an educational and fun destination for all ages.

What are the best things to see and do at Illinois Railway Museum?

Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits showcasing the history of rail travel and ride on various historic trains, including steam, diesel, and electric cars. The museum offers an immersive "Museum in Motion" experience and features interactive exhibits.

How much do tickets to Illinois Railway Museum cost?

Ticket prices start from 11 USD. Please check the official site for current pricing.

What are the opening hours at Illinois Railway Museum?

The Museum is open weekends in May from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last admissions at 4:00 PM for general operating days. For specific event days, hours may vary, so please check the official site for date-specific hours.

Is Illinois Railway Museum suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

The Illinois Railway Museum is suitable for all ages. It features interactive exhibits and special events, such as "Day Out With Thomas," that cater specifically to younger visitors.

Can you ride trains at the Illinois Railway Museum?

Yes, the museum provides an immersive "Museum in Motion" experience, allowing guests to ride on various historic trains, including steam, diesel, and electric cars.

Illinois Railway Museum

Write a Review Union, Illinois All ages Verified•History Museum

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

Image credits

Photo by H. Michael Miley via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-2.0
Photo by The original uploader was Slambo at English Wikipedia. via Wikidata, CC-BY-SA-2.0

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About Illinois Railway Museum

Don't just look at the trains, climb aboard and ride restored steam, diesel, and electric cars at America's largest railway museum.

Spanning a huge collection of preserved rail equipment, this Illinois institution lets families experience the golden age of rail rather than just read about it.

What you'll see and do - Take the "Museum in Motion" rides aboard historic steam, diesel, and electric cars. - Browse a collection that ranges from 1800s steam engines to retired CTA Red Line trains. - Explore interactive exhibits built for the whole family. - Catch special events like "Day Out With Thomas," aimed squarely at younger visitors.

Attraction Details

Opening Times

Monday10 AM to 4 PM
Tuesday10 AM to 4 PM
Wednesday10 AM to 4 PM
Thursday10 AM to 4 PM
Friday10 AM to 4 PM
Saturday10 AM to 5 PM
Sunday10 AM to 5 PM

Events at Illinois Railway Museum

Day Out With Thomas
Join us for a day of unforgettable family fun with Thomas, Percy, Sir Topham Hatt, and their friends!
Memorial Day Weekend
May 25, 2026
The Railrunner 5K/10K
June 14, 2026
Trolley Weekend
June 27, 2026
4th of July Weekend
July 4, 2026
35th Annual Vintage Transport Extravaganza
August 2, 2026

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Illinois Railway Museum.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Illinois Railway Museum is at 7000 Olson Rd, Union, IL 60180. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Illinois Railway Museum

7000 Olson Rd, Union, IL 60180

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Last updated 10/17/2026