Explore the history and grandeur of railroads in California through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.
The California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento offers an engaging journey through the state's rich railroad heritage. With three floors of exhibits, visitors can walk through historic trains, explore detailed model railroads, and learn how railroads shaped California's development. The museum features interactive displays, guided tours by knowledgeable docents, and family-friendly areas, making it a top destination for tourists, families, and train enthusiasts seeking an educational and entertaining experience.
125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
Claim California State Railroad Museum to manage your storefront, respond to reviews, and receive customer leads.
Led by knowledgeable docents who share in-depth historical insights and stories about the exhibits.
Walk through beautifully restored trains and engage with hands-on displays that bring railroad history to life.
Explore detailed model trains and dioramas on the third floor, perfect for all ages.
Includes kids' play areas, toy train setups, and educational programs designed for children.
Seasonal events like the Polar Express excursion and other themed activities throughout the year.
Learn about California's railroad history through exhibits on steam engine mechanics and daily train life.
Overall rating
Zsuzsanna Sziveri
So much history at this museum! A must-go place when visiting Sacramento. They have guided tours which are amazing. You can learn a lot from the docents. Lots of very unique trains and play areas for kids and adults. Recommend walking around the neighborhood by the museum and visiting the waterfront as well.
Angelique
The Railroad Museum was amazing and much bigger than expected, with three floors to explore. You can actually walk through the trains, and they were absolutely gorgeous. It kept the kids entertained the entire time, especially the third floor with the toy train setups and kids’ play area. There were plenty of bathrooms, which made it very family-friendly. I would definitely recommend this museum for both family outings and date days.
Charene Robinson
Always an absolute favorite! We’ve been coming here for years and this place helped spark such enthusiasm for trains that my 20 something son is still a fanatic. The cab forward will forever be a favorite. This year we came to view the polar express excursion. Always a great day at the train museum.
John Frahm
Very in depth and detailed exhibits. You have to go on a docent led tour. So much extra information that they share. The only train museum I have been at where you can get up close to the engines. There are multiple train cars you are able to walk through. Don't miss the 3rd floor model trains and diaromas.
Timothy Cheung
Excellent educational museum with very interactive exhibits. Each section clearly explains how railroads shaped California, from steam engine mechanics to daily life on the trains. You can walk through many of the rail cars and engage with hands-on displays, which makes the learning experience feel immersive rather than passive. The model railroad section upstairs is fantastic — detailed, informative, and especially great for helping visualize how rail systems operate. Knowledgeable staff add even more depth to the experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an engaging, educational visit in Sacramento.
