easy
1.5–2 hours
Accessible for all fitness levels, including families with young children and seniors
Step aboard vintage railcars at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish, Florida for authentic train rides that bring history and countryside to life. From family-friendly excursions to locomotive cab adventures, discover a unique outdoor experience off the beaten path.
Located in Parrish, Florida, the Florida Railroad Museum offers a rare window into steam-era railroading through a collection of immersive train journeys that capture local history and the romance of rail travel. This volunteer-run museum brings heritage railroading to life on weekends, with experiences like the Willow Express and the Von Kessinger's Express that wind through Sarasota County’s scenic subtropical landscape.
Riding aboard the museum’s vintage coaches, visitors traverse quiet rural stretches alongside wetlands and woodlands. Stops along the route reveal artifacts and onboard museums inside restored railcars, creating a hands-on history lesson that’s as engaging for kids as it is for rail enthusiasts. The Pumpkin Patch Express adds a seasonal twist, blending classic train travel with festive outings, while the Locomotive Cab Ride offers enthusiasts an adrenaline-charged opportunity to ride shotgun in the locomotive itself, steering through the Florida countryside under expert guidance.
This isn’t a static museum but a living exhibit propelled by passionate volunteers dedicated to preserving railroading heritage. Their commitment is evident in the condition of the trains and the welcoming, knowledgeable staff who personalize each trip with stories and operational insight. Passenger comfort is prioritized, with air-conditioned lounge and coach cars and accessible facilities.
In a state famous for its beaches and theme parks, the Florida Railroad Museum stands apart by tapping into a niche of historical transport and outdoor recreation. It offers a slow-paced adventure that encourages appreciation of Florida’s less-heralded rural environment and the engineering feats of the early 20th century. Whether it’s a family outing, a railfan pilgrimage, or a birthday surprise, this museum transforms the ordinary act of travel into an engaging connection with place and past.
Train rides operate on Saturdays and Sundays and often fill up quickly, so securing tickets ahead is advised.
The museum is well set up for those with mobility challenges, with accessible boarding and parking close to platforms.
While some cars are air-conditioned, temperatures can vary; layering protects against Florida’s occasional cool breezes and indoor air-con.
Plan extra time at stops to view historical artifacts and interactive exhibits inside heritage railcars.
The Florida Railroad Museum preserves equipment and stories representing Florida’s early 20th-century railroading heritage.
Volunteers maintain historic equipment while promoting sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact in local habitats.
Ideal for boarding trains and walking around museum cars at stops.
Hat and sunscreen protect during outdoor waiting periods.
spring|summer|fall specific
Useful for cool mornings and in air-conditioned cars.
winter|spring specific
Capture vintage locomotives, scenic views, and train memorabilia.