Oklahoma Railway Museum in Oklahoma City
Located in Oklahoma City, this museum is dedicated to preserving the rich railway history of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, and even an original steam engine.
Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and special events, visitors can get an up-close look at the trains that once traveled through Oklahoma City.
In this blog post, we will discuss why you should visit the Oklahoma Railway Museum and what it has to offer. We’ll also provide information about its history, exhibits, special events and programs, guided tours, location, times, and prices for visiting.
So read on to discover everything you need to know about the Oklahoma Railway Museum!
About the Museum
The Oklahoma Railway Museum is a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to preserving the history of railroads in Oklahoma City and the surrounding area.
Founded in 2000, the museum is home to more than 18 vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. Visitors can explore the history of railroading in Oklahoma City through exhibits, interactive displays, photographs, and artifacts.
The museum also offers educational programs for school groups, as well as special events throughout the year.
Why Visit?
The Oklahoma Railway Museum is a great place to visit for all ages. The museum has something for everyone, including special events and programs such as train rides, at-the-throttle sessions, steam train rides, the Easter Bunny Express, Halloween Train, OKC Train Show, The Polar Express hand car and motor car rides, and motor car excursions.
The museum also hosts birthday parties and offers school group tours. So whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do with your family, the Oklahoma Railway Museum is the perfect place!
Things to Do at the Museum:
- Explore the history of railroads in Oklahoma City
- See vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars from the late 1800s to mid-1900s
- Take part in interactive exhibits and displays
- Enjoy special events such as train rides, at-the-throttle sessions, and the Polar Express
- Visit for birthday parties or school group tours
- Have fun with family and friends!
A Brief History of Oklahoma City and its Railways
The history of railroads in Oklahoma City dates back to 1887 when the first railroad, the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad, arrived in the city.
Soon afterward, other railroads such as the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railway (known as the “Katy”) and Rock Island Lines began operating in Oklahoma City.
During this time period, many immigrants flocked to Oklahoma City and surrounding areas in search of jobs and opportunities.
The growth of the railroads in Oklahoma City allowed for a boom in population, industry, and commerce.
What to See & Experience
The Oklahoma Railway Museum houses many interactive exhibits showcasing the history of Oklahoma City’s railways. These include a 1910 caboose, an original steam engine, and even a Pullman railroad car.
There are also model railroads and displays, as well as artifacts and memorabilia from the era. Guests can also explore the railway history of Oklahoma City through photographs and interactive exhibits.
Special Events & Programs
The Oklahoma Railway Museum offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These include train rides, at-the-throttle sessions, the Easter Bunny Express, Halloween Train, OKC Train Show, The Polar Express hand car and motor car rides, and motor car excursions. The museum also hosts birthday parties and provides school group tours for a fee.
Train Rides
One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the train rides. Visitors can board one of two historic diesel engines and view the countryside while they travel through Oklahoma City’s oldest neighborhoods.
The trains run on a regular schedule, with occasional specials such as the Polar Express around Christmas time.
Click here for ticket information (official website)
At The Throttle Sessions
At The Throttle Sessions, museum guests can take part in interactive sessions that allow them to gain hands-on experience with the operation of a locomotive.
Guests will learn how to operate all aspects of a locomotive, including throttle and brake controls. They also will have the opportunity to drive the train around the museum grounds.
OKC Train Show
The OKC Train Show is held in the spring and fall of each year, featuring vendors from around the country selling model trains, books, and other train-related merchandise. This popular event draws hundreds of visitors to the museum each year.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express is a magical holiday train ride that runs from November to December. Guests will be taken back in time with festive caroling and a hot chocolate toast, as the train travels through the night to the North Pole.
See the dates and details for the Polar Express here
Location | Hours | Ticket Prices
The Oklahoma Railway Museum is located at 3400 NE Grand Boulevard in Oklahoma City and is open all year long from 9am until 5pm every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Admission to the museum is free, however, there are prices for special events and programs.
The ticket prices for the rides depend on the date and availability of tickets, but generally cost $12 for adults, $5 for children, and free for kids under 3 years of age.
3400 NE Grand Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 424-8222
https://www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org/
Our Conclusion:
The Oklahoma Railway Museum is a great place for visitors to explore the railway history of Oklahoma City. With its interactive exhibits and special events, there is something for everyone!
The museum offers train rides, at-the-throttle sessions, Polar Express rides, and more. Guests can also enjoy celebrations such as birthday parties or school group tours in this unique historic setting. Whether you are a fan of the railways or just looking for an interesting day out, the Oklahoma Railway Museum is sure to be an enjoyable experience.