1 / 3California State Railroad Museum
📍 Old Sacramento, CA
Three-floor railroad museum in Sacramento's historic district with 21 restored locomotives and train cars families can walk through, including Pullman sleepers and dining cars. Dedicated kids' play area and toy train setups on the third floor.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children across a wide age range - the museum scales from toddler-friendly play areas on the third floor to richly detailed exhibits that hold adult attention. The walkable train interiors are the defining experience; stepping inside a Pullman sleeper or dining car connects history in a way display cases cannot.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →5,653 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Rob Arzumanian
7 months ago
“I visited this place in November 2025, and I can say with 100% certainty- this is one of the best museums I have ever been to. It is a very modern museum that has lots of unique and exclusive exhibits. I also would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the workers, employees and volunteers of the museum. * One personal request to those who sees this review.* If you could somehow deliver this picture to the museum guide of one of the locomotives I would be very thankful and I think he would be very thankful as well. Please enjoy your time at the museum and be respectful with exhibits.”
T. W.
7 months ago
“This is an excellent museum for all ages! Something for everyone, from Thomas the Tank Engine layout to all sorts of model trains to the huge Cab Forward 4294 Engine that is the unique piece here. Always clean, well maintained, with friendly helpful staff. Great themed varied items available at the gift shop. Great realistic Pullman car experience. Awesome historical engines and tenders! Great for individuals, couples, and families! Great for visitors to Sacramento!”
Angelique
9 months ago
“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.”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
The California State Railroad Museum spans 225,000 square feet across three floors with 21 meticulously restored locomotives and train cars open for interior exploration. Highlights include the massive Cab Forward 4294 engine, Pullman sleeping cars, dining cars, and a Thomas the Tank Engine layout. Guided tours run hourly. The third floor houses toy train setups and a dedicated kids' play area. The historic Old Sacramento neighborhood and waterfront are walkable from the entrance.
