Is there parking available at the Southern California Railway Museum?

Yes, the museum offers ample free parking for visitors during Perris Appreciation Day.

Are the train and trolley rides truly free?

Yes, all train and trolley rides are free to attendees during the event.

Can we bring pets to Perris Appreciation Day?

Pets are generally not allowed except for service animals to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

Is the event suitable for young children?

Absolutely! The event is family-friendly with activities and rides designed for all ages.

Are food and drinks available onsite?

Yes, there are several local food vendors offering a variety of meals and snacks for purchase.

Is photography allowed at the museum during the event?

Yes, photography is encouraged to capture memories, but please respect other visitors and exhibits.

Perris Appreciation Day: Free Train Rides & Family Fun

Perris Appreciation Day at the Southern California Railway Museum is a perfect celebration for train enthusiasts and families alike. Held annually on September 20th in Perris, California, this event offers free train and trolley rides throughout the day, providing a fun and interactive way to explore the museum’s historic collections. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment featuring local performers, browse unique offerings from local vendors, and savor delicious food from a variety of onsite options. The museum itself is rich with fascinating exhibits that chronicle the history of railroads in Southern California, making it a fantastic educational experience for guests of all ages. Whether you’re bringing your family, meeting up with friends, or looking for a unique way to celebrate the community, Perris Appreciation Day combines fun, learning, and local culture in one memorable experience. The friendly atmosphere and diverse activities ensure that everyone finds something to enjoy. Plus, the free rides make it accessible to all, encouraging visitors to appreciate the vital role railroads have played in shaping the region. Plan your visit to soak up the vibrant community spirit and discover hidden nooks within the museum grounds. This event offers a rare chance to experience history in motion while supporting local businesses and entertainers.

About Southern California Railway Museum

Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, preserves a large collection of historic locomotives, railcars, and streetcars across nearly 100 acres of restored railyards and depots.

The museum offers narrated hosted tours led by knowledgeable docents, train and trolley rides every weekend, and curated exhibits that highlight regional rail history.

The museum serves as a premier location for photo and film shoots, providing diverse backdrops from vintage depots to industrial yards and an extensive roster of historic equipment. Production teams book the site for creative shoots and location filming because of its variety of authentic rail settings.

Community events and specialty programs are a core part of the museum’s calendar. Annual highlights include the Antique Truck Show, KCBS BBQ competitions such as BBQ Boots and Brew, Perris Appreciation Day with free rides for residents, and the Fall Victorian Tea hosted by the Harvey Girl Historical Society. The museum’s Business Class departures and Carhouse 4 rental offer unique options for private events and special occasions.

Educational offerings include the expanded Merit Badge Program with certified counselors and hands-on activities, plus the Run One Program that lets participants operate electric streetcars and locomotives under engineer supervision. The museum emphasizes safety, preservation, and historical accuracy while providing memorable, hands-on experiences for families, scouts, photographers, and event organizers.

Located in Perris, the museum is accessible to Southern California communities and supports local tourism and education. Staff and volunteers maintain exhibits and coordinate bookings for tours, events, and film projects to ensure smooth operations daily.