Step back in time to the era of steam engines and pioneering spirit with the Union Pacific Railroad Museum's History Express tour. Discover historic locomotives, artifacts, and stories that shaped America’s expansion.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal walking required
Wildlife
History
Established in 1970, the museum has preserved key artifacts from the golden age of rail travel, featuring a collection that illustrates the technological and cultural advancements of the era.
Conservation
The museum actively promotes preservation of historic locomotives and educates visitors on sustainable practices in railway conservation.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association
Step back in time to the era of steam engines and pioneering spirit with the Union Pacific Railroad Museum's History Express tour. Discover historic locomotives, artifacts, and stories that shaped America’s expansion.
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, preserves and presents over 150 years of American railroad history. The association operates a museum that interprets the story of the Transcontinental Railroad and the broader legacy of rail transportation through artifacts, exhibits, and curated programs.
Visitors can choose guided group tours, curriculum-aligned programs for K–12 students, self-guided museum visits, and public lecture series. The museum hosts the Innovation Station STEM Program, Club Car Conversations lecture nights, and specialized workshops such as the Scouting Railroad Merit Badge Workshop. Educational offerings include grade-specific sessions like Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad for K–6th and 7th–12th grades.
Practical visitor services include free admission for self-guided group visits, reserved parking, and wheelchair availability to ensure accessibility. Student self-guided visits are available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays to support school scheduling. Club Car Conversations feature experts and special guests who draw on the Union Pacific collection for deeper context.
The association maintains professional stewardship of artifacts and offers reliable, curriculum-focused programming for educators and group leaders. By combining preserved material culture with educational programming, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association provides trustworthy, research-informed experiences that connect audiences to the technological, social, and cultural impacts of railroading in the United States.
Location
Council Bluffs, IA
Museum based in Iowa
Historic Coverage
150+ Years
Over 150 years of railroad history
Programs Offered
11 programs
Tours, STEM, workshops, lectures
Accessible Visits
Free (self-guided)
Reserved parking and wheelchairs
Book group tours, reserve parking for self-guided visits, or register students for STEM and curriculum-based programs — make a reservation to secure preferred dates.
Arrive early for best exhibits
Visit during morning hours to avoid crowds and enjoy the full display of vintage trains and artifacts.
Bring headphones for audio guides
Use the audio guides to enrich your understanding of each exhibit and the history behind it.
Check exhibit schedules
Look up current exhibit and event schedules to maximize your visit and catch special presentations.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect to walk among various exhibits and walkways; comfortable footwear will enhance your experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for walking between exhibits and along outdoor track sections.
Notebook or camera
Capture memories and jot down interesting facts from exhibits.
Light jacket or layers
Adjust to indoor and outdoor environments as needed.
Headphones or earphones
Enhance your experience with audio guides and narrations.