Is prior experience required to participate?

No prior experience is necessary; expert instructors provide full guidance throughout the session.

Can children participate in the Run One Program?

Participants must meet age and height requirements; typically, the minimum age is 12 years old.

Are there any physical restrictions for this activity?

The experience is low impact but requires participants to be able to safely operate basic controls and move around the train.

What should I wear for the experience?

Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended; an engineer’s cap and certificate are provided.

Is the experience available year-round?

Yes, the Run One Program operates year-round but is subject to availability and weather conditions.

Can I bring guests or spectators?

Yes, guests can observe the experience from designated visitor areas but cannot participate in driving.

Drive Historic Trains in Perris, CA at Southern California Railway

The Run One Program at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris offers an exclusive experience for anyone fascinated by trains and streetcars. For one hour, participants step into the shoes of a train engineer or streetcar operator, receiving hands-on training from expert instructors. You'll learn how to operate the controls and have a unique opportunity to drive either on the mainline or the scenic loop line. This is truly a rare adventure that combines education, fun, and nostalgia, perfect for families, railfans, and adventure seekers. Participants receive an engineer’s cap and a certificate, making it a memorable keepsake to commemorate your experience. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an exciting way to spend an hour, this program at the Southern California Railway Museum connects you directly with a critical piece of American transportation heritage. Located conveniently in Perris, with easy access from Riverside and Los Angeles, it's a perfect day trip or weekend outing for the whole family.

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.