THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience the lively Third Fridays at Southern California Railway Museum, where vintage trains, food trucks, and live music create a perfect spring evening. Discover why this monthly event is a community favorite in Riverside County.
Experience the lively Third Fridays at Southern California Railway Museum, where vintage trains, food trucks, and live music create a perfect spring evening. Discover why this monthly event is a community favorite in Riverside County.
Book with Southern California Railway Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Southern California Railway Museum · Perris, California
Located in Perris, California, the Southern California Railway Museum offers a lively setting for those looking to combine outdoors with unique cultural experiences. Third Fridays is a monthly event that transforms the museum grounds into a hub of entertainment and community. Though primarily a cultural event, the museum's outdoor space provides a welcoming environment for visitors to enjoy the sunshine amid vintage trains and historic rail cars. The event features a vibrant selection of diverse food trucks, local craft vendors, and engaging lawn games that appeal to all ages. Live music performances animate the scene, creating an energetic backdrop for an evening out. Visitors can take advantage of free general admission, making it an accessible outing, and the trolley rides add a nostalgic touch, offering a small-scale adventure through the historic rail yard. The event's ease and variety make it a standout community gathering in Riverside County, blending history with modern festivities. While not a traditional outdoor adventure, Third Fridays presents a unique chance for visitors to connect with local heritage and enjoy the outdoors during warm spring evenings. The Southern California Railway Museum’s broad outdoor accessible areas make it suitable for family outings, casual meetups, or leisurely strolls among vintage trains, all set against an outdoor backdrop that invites curiosity and relaxation. Accessibility, rich history, and community spirit define this event, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor-focused itinerary in the region.
Moderate.
6–8 hours.
Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.
Yes, a variety of local food trucks and vendors are on-site offering diverse cuisine.
Absolutely, the event is suitable for all ages, with lawn games and live entertainment.
Yes, trolley rides are included in the event and offer a fun way to see the historic rail yard.
Yes, ample parking is available near the museum, with designated areas for visitors.
General admission is free, but trolley rides and some activities may have small fees.
Bring layers, water, and comfortable shoes for a relaxed outdoor experience.
The Southern California Railway Museum, established in 1965, preserves the region's railroad history with a collection of historic trains and locomotives.
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices by maintaining historic equipment and educating visitors on railroad conservation.
Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, preserves a large collection of historic locomotives, railcars, and streetcars across nearly 100 acres of restored railyards and depots. The museum offers narrated hosted tours led by knowledgeable docents, train and trolley rides every weekend, and curated exhibits that highlight regional rail history. The museum serves as a premier location for photo and film shoots, providing diverse backdrops from vintage depots to industrial yards and an extensive roster of historic equipment. Production teams book the site for creative shoots and location filming because of its variety of authentic rail settings. Community events and specialty programs are a core part of the museum’s calendar. Annual highlights include the Antique Truck Show, KCBS BBQ competitions such as BBQ Boots and Brew, Perris Appreciation Day with free rides for residents, and the Fall Victorian Tea hosted by the Harvey Girl Historical Society. The museum’s Business Class departures and Carhouse 4 rental offer unique options for private events and special occasions. Educational offerings include the expanded Merit Badge Program with certified counselors and hands-on activities, plus the Run One Program that lets participants operate electric streetcars and locomotives under engineer supervision. The museum emphasizes safety, preservation, and historical accuracy while providing memorable, hands-on experiences for families, scouts, photographers, and event organizers. Located in Perris, the museum is accessible to Southern California communities and supports local tourism and education. Staff and volunteers maintain exhibits and coordinate bookings for tours, events, and film projects to ensure smooth operations daily.
Book with Southern California Railway Museum