Visiting the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California

Southern California Railway Museum: Historic Trains, Rides & Family Fun

Take a trip back in time at the Southern California Railway Museum. Spread across more than 100 acres in Perris, California, this museum is a great day out for train lovers, families, history fans, and anyone curious about the past. Once known as the Orange Empire Railway Museum, it has grown into one of the largest railroad museums in the West. Its collection of restored locomotives, trolleys, and railcars shares the story of Southern California’s rail history.

Whether you love trains or just want a different kind of weekend trip near Los Angeles or San Diego, the museum has hands-on activities, scenic train rides, and plenty to explore on your own. It’s much more interactive than most museums.

A Living Legacy of Rail History

The museum started in 1956 at the old Pinacate Station as the Orange Empire Trolley Museum. Over the years, it has grown a lot. Many of its trains and cars were saved from scrap yards and carefully restored by volunteers and staff.

The museum’s collection includes steam engines, electric trolleys, diesel locomotives, and freight cars that once ran on the busy rail lines of Los Angeles, the Pacific Electric ‘Red Cars,’ and the Santa Fe Railway. Some highlights are the Emma Nevada and a charming 1881 steam locomotive that belonged to Disney animator Ward Kimball. Kimball decorated the engine himself, and his love of trains, which he shared with Walt Disney, helped inspire Disneyland’s famous railroad. There’s even a part of Disney’s California Adventure called ‘Grizzly Flats’ named after him.

Must-See Collections and Exhibits

The museum has one of the best collections of Pacific Electric and Los Angeles Railway equipment you’ll find. The Pacific Electric group has over 30 pieces, and some even appeared in the movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The Los Angeles Railway collection includes more than 24 streetcars, representing almost every type that ran in LA during the 1900s.

Besides the big trains, you’ll find interesting railroad items like Magnetic Flagman crossing signals, a Safetran block signal from the Southern Pacific Coastal Route, Union Switch and Signal motorcar indicators, and a 1910 warning bell that once stood in Anaheim.

Things to Do: Rides, Hands-On Experiences & More

The best part is when the trains are running. On weekends and holidays, you can ride historic streetcars on the half-mile Loop Line or take a longer 1.5-mile trip along an old Santa Fe Railroad route. The trains usually have benches and cabooses, and the route goes north to the BNSF Railway junction near the old Santa Fe depot on State Route 74. A Pacific Electric ‘Red Car’ also runs on some weekends.

Popular experiences include:

Run One Program: Take the controls yourself! Operate a diesel switcher, Southern Pacific 3100, or Santa Fe FP-45 locomotive for a full hour under the guidance of an experienced engineer. Up to four riders can join you. You’ll receive an engineer’s cap and certificate—perfect for kids and adults.

Steam Experience: Spend a morning with the crew preparing and operating a real steam locomotive—an unforgettable deep-dive for serious enthusiasts.

The museum also puts on fun seasonal events like The Polar Express, Hogwarts Express adventures, swap meets, and special family days.

Tip: For the most train and trolley rides, visit on a weekend. If you come on a weekday, you can book a guided tour for a small fee.

Information for Your Visit

• Hours: The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission and parking are free. The store is usually open Tuesday through Sunday.
• Rides: You’ll need tickets for train and trolley rides ($8–$13 per person). On weekends, rides run from about 11 AM to 5 PM, and your ticket lets you ride as much as you want all day.
• Best Time to Go: Visit on weekends for rides, or come on weekdays for a quieter visit and guided tours.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes since the museum grounds are large. Check the weather and bring sunscreen or extra layers if needed.
• Accessibility: The museum offers charters for school groups and private events.

Getting There

The Southern California Railway Museum is at 2201 S. A Street, Perris, CA 92570. It’s about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive from both Los Angeles and San Diego. If you want to stay longer, there are hotels and restaurants in Perris. Website.

Why the Southern California Railway Museum Deserves a Day Trip

This museum is more than just old trains. It’s a lively place that celebrates the railroads that helped shape the area. With history, hands-on activities, scenic rides, and special events, there’s something for everyone. Whether you visit for a short trip down memory lane or spend the whole day exploring, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Southern California’s transportation history and lots of great memories.

Plan your visit soon. New exhibits, restored trains, and special seasonal events make each trip different and exciting.

FAQ: Visiting the Southern California Railway Museum

Is admission free?

Yes, general admission and parking are free. Tickets are only required for train and trolley rides.

When do trains and trolleys run?
Regular operations are on Saturdays and Sundays (and major holidays). Check the official events calendar for exact departure times and special event dates.

Can I drive the trains?
Yes! The “Run One” program allows visitors to operate locomotives under supervision. Reservations are required.

Is the museum suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The rides, open grounds, and family events make it a hit with children of all ages.

How long should I plan to spend there?
Plan for 3–5 hours on a weekend to fully enjoy rides, exhibits, and exploration. Full-day visits are common.

Are there food options on site?
Limited options are usually available during events and busy weekends. Many visitors bring picnic lunches or eat in Perris.

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