1 Hour • Ages 13+
Unlock the secrets of America’s railroad past with the National Railroad Museum’s exclusive History After Dark tour. Go behind the scenes for a one-hour exploration of archives and restoration workshops that bring history to life.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for most visitors who can stand and walk for an hour.
Wildlife
History
Founded in 1956, the National Railroad Museum is one of the oldest railroad museums in the U.S., preserving the legacy of American railroading and Wisconsin’s role in it.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices in restoration by using original materials and promoting education on preserving historical technology.
National Railroad Museum
1 Hour • Ages 13+
The National Railroad Museum in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, offers visitors a hands-on introduction to railroading through exhibits, train rides, educational programs, and seasonal events. Located near the Fox River, the Museum provides daily self-guided tours and daily train rides from May to September, enabling guests to experience historic equipment and learn railroading basics. Camp offerings include age-specific programs: Summer Railroad Camp for Locomotive Firemen (ages 5–7), Advanced Engineers (ages 12–18), and a Girls STEM Leadership camp that combines science, sustainability, and a hands-on project with a certificate of achievement.
Programming extends to community and specialty events such as The Great Pumpkin Train with pumpkin-picking, live entertainment, crafts, and family activities, and seasonal celebrations including the Festival of Trees and Holidays On The Rails. Educational opportunities include a six-part Railroading Merit Badge Workshop open to Scouts and adult leaders, a History After Dark lecture series on locomotive and Army rail operations, and an exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour exploring the archives and restoration shop.
The Museum hosts unique fundraisers and dining events like the Dinner Train—scheduled for September 11 and 18—featuring multi-course meals aboard vintage trains while supporting educational programs. Registration and ticketing are available for camps, workshops, special events, and daily admission. The National Railroad Museum emphasizes accessible railroading education and memorable family experiences in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, helping visitors of all ages connect with the technology, safety, and stories of American rail history. On-site staff and volunteers support learning with demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and guided activities for school groups and families.
Location
Ashwaubenon, WI
Near the Fox River
Train Rides
May–September
Daily rides during the season
Experiences
10 Experiences
Camps, workshops, and events
Youth Programs
Ages 5–18
Camps and merit badge workshops
Reserve tickets, enroll in camps, or sign up for workshops and seasonal events — make memories on the rails.
Book early for limited spots
This exclusive tour has limited availability, so reserve your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dress comfortably
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the tour involves walking and standing in workshop areas.
Photography allowed with care
Bring a camera; photos are welcome in most areas but avoid flash photography in sensitive archive rooms.
Age recommendation
Recommended for ages 13 and up due to workshop environment and detailed historical content.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is key as the tour involves walking through museum and shop floors.
Camera or smartphone
Capture unique behind-the-scenes moments but respect museum photography guidelines.
Light jacket or sweater
Workshop areas can be cool in spring; layering helps maintain comfort.
spring
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially if visiting during warmer months.