Are the train and trolley rides suitable for children?

Yes, the rides are family-friendly and enjoyable for children of all ages.

Is prior reservation required for hosted tours?

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure availability for tours and train rides.

Are the tours accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?

Most areas are accessible, but some older railcars may have steps; contact the museum for specific accessibility information.

Can visitors bring their own food and drinks?

Picnic areas are available, so guests may bring food and beverages; however, check museum guidelines on onsite consumption.

Is photography allowed inside the museum and on train rides?

Photography is encouraged for personal use, though flash photography may be restricted in some exhibits.

Are there guided tours available every day?

Narrated tours and train rides are offered primarily on weekends; special events may provide additional opportunities.

Discover Historic Train Tours at Perris Museum, California | Museum | Train

The Museum: Hosted Tours at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the fascinating history of rail transportation. This private outdoor adventure invites visitors to explore an impressive collection of locomotives and railcars that chronicle over six decades of heritage. Expert docents guide you through the exhibits with engaging narrated tours that reveal the stories behind each piece and the impact of railroads on Southern California's development. On weekends, the excitement continues with authentic train and trolley rides that bring history to life, providing fun and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a train fan, or looking for a family-friendly outing, this activity blends education, outdoor fun, and nostalgia in one captivating visit. The museum’s engaging storytelling and hands-on experiences ensure each guest leaves with a deeper appreciation for the role trains played in shaping the region. Located in Perris, just an hour from Riverside, this experience is ideal for both locals and tourists seeking an immersive glimpse into California’s railroad past.

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.