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Trains & Railways

Riverside Live Steamers

📍 Riverside, CA

4.9(48 Google reviews)👶All ages

Nonprofit miniature steam railway running 7.5 gauge live steam engines at Hunter Hobby Park. Rides are free on the 2nd and 4th Sundays monthly, with playground, picnic shelters, and sports courts on-site.

Free train ridesLive steam onlyVolunteer runToddler friendlyPicnic area
★★★★★Featured review by Walker Valley Railroad

This this live steam railroad is a grate place they only allow steam locomotives witch is nice. There are free train rides the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month from 10AM to 3PM the station is located on Iowa. There are picknec shelters in the park, playground equipment, 2 ball fields, and basketball courts. It is a great way to spend the day.

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for families with train-enthusiast kids aged 3–13. The all-steam rule gives rides a genuine nostalgic quality that polished amusement parks can't replicate. Arrive prepared for potential queues and bring shade gear on hot days — sun exposure on the track area is significant.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Runs on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month only — confirm before visiting
Bring cash for optional train hat souvenirs and donations to support the volunteers
🎟️Expect queues — wait times vary depending on crowd size
🚗Arrive early on hot days as shade near the track is sparse

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.9

48 Google reviews

Authentic steam train experience50%
Free admission30%
Full park amenities20%
W

Walker Valley Railroad

8 years ago

This this live steam railroad is a grate place they only allow steam locomotives witch is nice. There are free train rides the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month from 10AM to 3PM the station is located on Iowa. There are picknec shelters in the park, playground equipment, 2 ball fields, and basketball courts. It is a great way to spend the day.

R

Rene G

2 years ago

Fantastic Spot. Took my 3 year old and he loved every bit of the trip. It’s free but bring some cash for train hats ($8) and a donation if you’d like.

A

A Google User

4 months ago

Fun miniature steam trains, very nostalgic. Kids and adults both seemed delighted. Shade is sparse, hot day can be tiring.

P

Patio Furniture

8 years ago

Great place to visit and ride small trains. Covered picnic areas, playgrounds and baseball fields.

Reviews from Google

Overview

Riverside Live Steamers operates authentic live steam locomotives — no diesel or electric substitutes — on a dedicated track at Hunter Hobby Park. The nonprofit runs exclusively on volunteer effort. Beyond the trains, the park includes playgrounds, picnic shelters, basketball courts, and softball fields. Train-themed jungle gyms sit near the track for younger kids.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 15:00

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