
National Railway Museum Port Adelaide
Explore Australia's largest undercover railway museum, featuring steam engines, carriages, and fun miniature train rides. A journey through history!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More train rides available

National Railway Museum Port Adelaide
Best Time
More train rides available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Australia's largest undercover railway museum, featuring steam engines, carriages, and fun miniature train rides. A journey through history!
"A wonderful experience, fascinating and full of history, highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Adelaide!"

🚗 Parking Availability
Metered outdoor parking is available directly opposite the museum. :car:
🎟️ Senior Discounts
Don't forget to inquire about senior discounts on entry fees. :moneywithwings:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Steam Locomotives
Main Pavilions
Marvel at a vast collection of iconic steam engines, diesel locomotives, and vintage carriages. A true journey through railway history.

Miniature Train Rides
Outdoor Track
Enjoy a charming ride on the miniature railway, offering unique views of the museum's extensive exhibits. Fun for all ages!

Interactive Displays
Various Exhibits
Step back in time with engaging displays and explore vintage train compartments for a hands-on feel of past travel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Plan for Train Rides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Metered outdoor parking is available directly opposite the museum. :car:
🎟️ Senior Discounts
Don't forget to inquire about senior discounts on entry fees. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the locomotives and carriages. The miniature train offers unique photo angles. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Perfect for families! Kids love the train rides and interactive exhibits. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Metered outdoor parking is available directly opposite the museum. :car:
🎟️ Senior Discounts
Don't forget to inquire about senior discounts on entry fees. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the locomotives and carriages. The miniature train offers unique photo angles. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Perfect for families! Kids love the train rides and interactive exhibits. :child:
🕰️ Check Ride Times
Miniature train rides depart approx. every 30 mins. Plan your visit accordingly! :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Railway Museum for its extensive collection of historic trains and the engaging experience it offers. The passion of the volunteers and the fun miniature train rides are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a highly recommended destination for families and train enthusiasts alike. Some visitors note that the parking is metered and suggest booking tickets in advance during peak times.
"Took a ride to Port Adelaide to check out the National Railway Museum located next to Port Dock station. A large and impressive museum showcasing Australia's history of rail travel from steam engines to today's locomotives. The evolution of the rail system and facilities on board is also like a mini history lesson through Australia's short life as a country. Seeing heated seats, or the advent of toilets, the addition of sleeping beds or the kitchen with dining cart, to air conditioning especially needed through the harsh hot conditions of the outback, are some of the things we take for granted today. I think what took the cake for me was the white car which enabled banking - a mobile Commonwealth Bank branch on the train! For the big kid in us, jump on the mini train to take a ride around the yard and see some of the trains about. At the very back is another shed to access containing more trains. Impressive museum and also the friendly staff, many whom are volunteers, that help make this place great."
Shaun D'Monte
"I had a wonderful experience at the National Railway Museum. The gentlemen at the entrance were so welcoming and kind, and I could really feel their passion for railways and their enthusiasm for their work. Their friendliness made the visit even more special.
Although I only had a short time before closing, I truly enjoyed exploring the museum, it’s fascinating and full of history. It’s a pity I’m leaving Adelaide tonight, but I’ll definitely come back to spend more time here in the future. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Adelaide!"
Jenny
"If your a train and history person ,good day out. I took the grandson. Nice train ride, the lad hooked on the simulator. Would include as part of a day adventure in the Port area of Port Adelaide.Believe there are special tours available for the more interested"
Darryl “DORA” Hime
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Port Adelaide, South Australia. It's easily accessible by car, with metered outdoor parking available opposite the museum. Public transport options, including buses and trains, also serve the Port Adelaide area, making it convenient to reach from Adelaide CBD.
Yes, there is metered outdoor parking located directly opposite the museum entrance. This makes it very convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The museum generally offers good accessibility for wheelchairs, with most exhibits and pavilions being accessible. The miniature train ride may have specific boarding procedures, so it's advisable to check on arrival.
Absolutely! The National Railway Museum is very family-friendly and welcomes strollers. The spacious layout of the pavilions and outdoor areas makes it easy to navigate with young children.
For a scenic journey, consider taking the train to Port Adelaide station, which is a short walk from the museum. Driving is also a popular option, with ample parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media pages before your visit. They are typically open on weekends and public holidays.
Admission fees apply, with different rates for adults, seniors, and children. Keep an eye out for potential discounts, such as senior concession cards, which can reduce the entry cost.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. However, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods like public holidays, to avoid potential queues.
Yes, discounts are often available for seniors and sometimes for families or groups. It's worth checking their website or inquiring at the entrance about any current promotions or concession rates.
The miniature train ride is often included in the general admission fee, offering a fantastic way to see more of the museum. It typically runs at scheduled intervals throughout the day.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast collection of over 100 exhibits, including historic steam locomotives, diesel engines, and elegant train carriages. There are also interactive displays and a miniature railway.
Yes, the museum offers miniature train rides that circle the grounds, providing a fun perspective on the exhibits. These rides are a highlight for many visitors, especially children.
The National Railway Museum is highly recommended for kids! They'll love the hands-on exhibits, the chance to explore train compartments, and especially the miniature train rides.
To fully enjoy the exhibits and take a train ride, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors might want to spend even longer if they are deeply interested in railway history.
Yes, the museum features several interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about railway history in a hands-on way. Exploring vintage train compartments also offers an immersive experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the museum for personal use. It's a fantastic place to capture unique shots of historical locomotives and carriages.
The main pavilions housing the locomotives offer dramatic backdrops. The miniature train ride also provides unique angles, especially when it runs parallel to modern tracks.
Drone usage is typically restricted inside museums and at heritage sites for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to check the museum's specific policy on drones before your visit.
Commercial photography or videography may require special permission. It's advisable to contact the museum directly if you plan to use images for commercial purposes.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the indoor exhibits. However, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing most of the highlights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early to make the most of the day and checking the schedule for the miniature train rides. The museum's layout is generally stroller-friendly, and the enthusiastic volunteers often engage well with younger visitors, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for a day out that combines entertainment with educational value, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile and a newfound appreciation for trains.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Beyond the main exhibits, the museum's layout allows for a comprehensive exploration of railway infrastructure. Enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvels of different eras and the evolution of train technology. The chance to see and learn about iconic locomotives like the Flying Scotsman or Mallard (though specific exhibits may vary) adds to the allure. It's a place where you can truly get lost in the world of railways and appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind these magnificent machines.
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking is available, though it is metered, so factor that into your budget. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money on food expenses during your visit. Overall, the museum provides an engaging and educational experience without breaking the bank, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers exploring Adelaide.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Australian Railway History
Many visitors highlight the passion of the staff who are often volunteers with deep knowledge and enthusiasm for railways. This personal touch enhances the visitor experience, making it more than just a display of old machines. You can often find yourself chatting with knowledgeable individuals who are eager to share stories and insights about the exhibits. This community-driven aspect makes the museum feel alive and engaging, offering a glimpse into the dedication that preserves this important heritage.
Beyond the static displays, the museum offers interactive elements that bring history to life. Exploring the interiors of vintage train compartments provides a tangible sense of past travel, allowing visitors to imagine journeys from bygone eras. The presence of a model railroad also adds another layer of fascination, showcasing intricate detail and the charm of miniature railways. These elements combine to create a comprehensive and engaging experience for all ages, from young children to seasoned railway enthusiasts.
The Charm of Miniature Train Rides
What makes these rides particularly special is the chance to see parts of the museum that might be missed during a walking tour. In some instances, the miniature train even runs parallel to a real, modern light railway for a short stretch, creating an exciting juxtaposition of old and new. This experience is often cited as a highlight, bringing smiles to the faces of both children and adults alike.
It's advisable to check the schedule for the miniature train upon arrival to ensure you don't miss out. The enthusiasm of the children riding these trains is palpable, making it a truly memorable part of a visit to the National Railway Museum.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit