Do I need previous experience to rent a locomotive?

No prior experience is necessary. Expert instructors provide all training you need before operating the locomotive.

Is this experience suitable for children?

Participants generally need to be at least 16 years old for safety reasons, but check with the museum for specific age requirements.

What is included in the rental price?

The price includes a full hour of locomotive operation plus thorough training and safety briefings.

What should I wear for the locomotive rental?

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layers are recommended as temperature can vary.

Can I bring guests with me during the rental?

Typically, rentals are private and just for the renter, but check with the Florida Railroad Museum for guest policies.

Is there parking available at the Florida Railroad Museum?

Yes, free parking is available on-site for all guests and participants.

Locomotive Rental Adventure in Parrish, Florida | Train | Guided Tour

Take the helm of a powerful locomotive at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish, Florida, for a truly unique outdoor adventure. Renting a locomotive gives you the extraordinary opportunity to experience what it feels like to be an engineer commanding 1,500 horsepower. Before your hour-long ride begins, expert instructors provide hands-on training to ensure you're comfortable and confident at the controls. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, marking a special occasion, or just eager for a one-of-a-kind thrill, this experience offers excitement and unforgettable memories. The museum’s scenic route takes you through beautiful rural Florida landscapes, making the ride as visually enjoyable as it is exhilarating. This activity is perfect for anyone fascinated by trains, machinery, or outdoor adventures with a twist. The Florida Railroad Museum prides itself on preserving railroading history while offering interactive experiences that entertain and educate. As a private rental, you get exclusive control and the chance to immerse yourself fully in the power and mechanics of the locomotive. This hands-on adventure delivers a rare mix of adrenaline, history, and nature in one memorable package.

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.