Adventure Collective
Photography & Film Shoot at Southern California Railway Museum in Perris - Los Angeles

Photography & Film Shoot at Southern California Railway Museum in Perris

Perriseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–4 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all skill levels

Overview

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.

Perris, California

Photo/Film Shoot Booking

One of the premier Photo and Film locations in Southern California!

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About This Adventure

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.

One of the premier Photo and Film locations in Southern California!

Rates

  • Photoshoot: Outside - $42.40 per hour
  • Photoshoot: Inside Carhouse/Train - $84.80 per hour
  • Photoshoot with a Train in a Field (three hours) - $238.50
  • Film shoot: Regular - $530 per hour
  • Film shoot: Student - $106 per hour
  • After-hours surcharge - $106 per each hour or fraction before 9:00 AM or after 5:00 PM

About Film and Photoshoots

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.

Adventure Tips

Plan for golden hour shoots

Capture warm, soft lighting by scheduling shoots during sunrise or sunset.

Check with staff for access

Coordinate your shoot in advance to ensure access to preferred areas and avoid disruptions.

Bring weather protection

Prepare for California’s variable weather, especially if shooting outdoors for extended periods.

Respect the site’s history

Avoid touching or moving historic equipment to preserve the authenticity of the setting.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red-tailed hawk
  • Western bluebird

History

The museum was established in the 1990s and has since become a key site for vintage rail preservation and filming in Southern California.

Conservation

The site emphasizes preservation and sustainability, with efforts to maintain its historic integrity while minimizing environmental impact.

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Adventure Hotspots in Los Angeles

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Camera and tripod

Essential

Necessary for capturing steady, high-quality images of vintage subjects.

Lens variety (wide-angle and portrait)

Essential

Provides flexibility for different compositions, from sweeping shots to detailed portraits.

Weather protection gear

Protects your equipment against rain, dust, or intense sunlight.

all specific

Comfortable footwear

Essential

Ensures ease when navigating uneven or outdoor terrain around the site.