Is it suitable for children?

Yes, it’s a family-friendly event designed with kids in mind.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

The event provides food and beverages; outside food is not permitted.

How long does the event last?

Expect approximately 2 to 3 hours, including train travel and outdoor time.

Is there accessible seating?

Yes, the venue provides accessible seating options for guests with mobility needs.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Yes, advance booking is recommended as spots fill quickly.

What should I do if it rains?

The event is scheduled rain or shine; bring appropriate gear if necessary.

Family Outdoor Dining at Florida Railroad Museum | Guided Tour | Events

Located in the vibrant heart of Florida, the Florida Railroad Museum offers a distinctive outing that combines historic train travel with the simple pleasure of a campfire cookout. This experience is perfect for families and groups seeking a relaxed evening immersed in classic Americana charm. As you board the vintage, air-conditioned train car, you'll travel through scenic Florida landscapes, passing lush greenery and glimpses of local wildlife. The highlight unfolds at the stop where an outdoor area is set for a traditional hobo-style cookout. Guests gather around a crackling campfire to roast hot dogs and marshmallows, making it a cozy, interactive meal. The event is complemented by refreshing lemonade and vibrant conversation, creating a warm, community-driven atmosphere. The Florida Railroad Museum is a treasured part of the region’s rich railway history, dating back to the early 20th century, and this evening activity brings that legacy alive with a fun and nostalgic twist. Its location and unique blend of heritage and outdoor activity make it a top pick for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable family outing, this campfire cookout delivers. Plus, the outdoor setting offers opportunities to spot local wildlife like herons or turtles in the nearby wetlands, adding a nature component to your evening. The museum’s commitment to preserving history and engaging the community makes this a standout adventure. With straightforward scheduling and accessibility, it’s an ideal way to enjoy Florida’s outdoor scene while bonding over good food and great company.

About Florida Railroad Museum

Florida Railroad Museum is a living-history museum and heritage railroad located in Parrish, Florida. The museum operates historic steam and diesel trains over a scenic 6.5-mile line, offering public excursions, special-event trains, and hands-on experiences that preserve railroading history.

Visitors can ride in open-air coach cars, air-conditioned coaches, or upgrade to a locomotive cab ride for an engineer’s perspective. Seasonal events include the Pumpkin Patch Express with both Coach Class and First Class seating, immersive reenactments such as Von Kessinger’s Express, staged Train Robbery performances, and family-friendly Willow Express round trips.

Unique experiences include locomotive cab rides and a locomotive rental program that allows trained guests to operate a locomotive under museum supervision. The museum also offers a Party Caboose rental that accommodates up to sixteen guests for private celebrations. Florida Railroad Museum collaborates with volunteers and preservation experts to maintain historic rolling stock and interpretive exhibits, ensuring safety and authenticity.

Trains run on a six-point-five-mile route between Parrish and Willow, emphasizing accessible, educational, and entertaining experiences for all ages. Ticketed excursions, special events, and private rentals are scheduled regularly; visitors are encouraged to check official schedules and reserve tickets in advance. The museum’s combination of operational locomotives, curated events, and volunteer stewardship provides an engaging way to learn about rail history while enjoying scenic Florida countryside. Established preservation practices and clear safety procedures support trustworthy and memorable visits.

Public schedules, pricing, and accessibility information are available on the museum's official site and ticketing channels. Advance reservations are recommended. Seasonally.