easy
1–4 hours
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all skill levels
Capture stunning vintage railroad scenes at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. Perfect for film crews and photographers, this historic site offers authentic backdrops that elevate any project. Discover why creatives flock here for unique outdoor shooting experiences.
One of the premier Photo and Film locations in Southern California!
Discover the Southern California Railway Museum, a premier film and photography location boasting a rich transportation history. Spanning nearly 100 acres, it features diverse backdrops, from vintage depots to industrial railyards. With a collection of historic railcars and a legacy of notable productions, it offers a unique setting for creative projects.
The Southern California Railway Museum is one of the premier film and photography locations in Southern California. While located just outside the Los Angeles filming zone, the Museum offers an authentic and historically rich setting that captures the essence of Southern California’s transportation history—making it a favorite among filmmakers and photographers alike. Home to the largest collection of historic rail equipment and artifacts in the western United States, the Museum spans nearly 100 acres and features miles of track set in a wide variety of backdrops, ranging from late 19th century to present-day industrial landscapes. The collection includes railcars and trolleys from across the U.S. and around the world, including examples from Japan, Ireland, and Canada. Our grounds offer a wide array of unique shooting locations, such as: 1890s-era Perris Depot (Downtown Perris)
Vintage Broadway Streetscape
Mid-century train station
Large brick loading platform
Industrial railyards
Deserted tracks and rustic scenery
Parks and open green spaces
Junk piles and weathered infrastructure
Historic trolley and streetcars
Unique railcars of all eras and styles
Turntable and water tower
Railroad street crossings
Large storage and maintenance buildings
The Museum has a long-standing history with the film and photography industry. Our site—and even our equipment—has been featured in numerous productions, both on and off-site. Notable credits include: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
Water for Elephants (2010)
The Majestic (2001)
Changeling (2008)
In the Mood (1987)
Sunset (1988)
American Me (1992)
Disney California Adventure design shoot (2011)
Reality and documentary series including Owners Manual and California Gold
A variety of student films, music videos, and independent productions
Filming Requirements: All film and photography projects must obtain proper permits from the City of Perris and provide valid insurance coverage. In alignment with the Museum’s mission to preserve and present railway history, all filming must portray railroading positively and safely.
Capture warm, soft lighting by scheduling shoots during sunrise or sunset.
Coordinate your shoot in advance to ensure access to preferred areas and avoid disruptions.
Prepare for California’s variable weather, especially if shooting outdoors for extended periods.
Avoid touching or moving historic equipment to preserve the authenticity of the setting.
The museum was established in the 1990s and has since become a key site for vintage rail preservation and filming in Southern California.
The site emphasizes preservation and sustainability, with efforts to maintain its historic integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
Necessary for capturing steady, high-quality images of vintage subjects.
Provides flexibility for different compositions, from sweeping shots to detailed portraits.
Protects your equipment against rain, dust, or intense sunlight.
all specific
Ensures ease when navigating uneven or outdoor terrain around the site.