Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico
Witness the majestic ATSF 2926 steam locomotive, a restored 1944 icon of New Mexico's railroad heritage. Experience its power!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See it move under its own power!
Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico
Best Time
See it move under its own power!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the majestic ATSF 2926 steam locomotive, a restored 1944 icon of New Mexico's railroad heritage. Experience its power!
"The volunteers are friendly and very knowledgeable! Had a lot of fun talking to them.
"Check Event Schedules
Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead!
Support Restoration Efforts
Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

ATSF 2926 Locomotive
A magnificent 4-8-4 Northern steam locomotive, restored to operational status. Feel the power and history!

The Engine Cab Experience
Inside the locomotive cab
Step into the engineer's seat and imagine hauling trains across the country. A truly immersive historical moment.
Volunteer-Led Tours
Gain deep insights from dedicated volunteers who share the locomotive's rich history and restoration journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the 2926
Experience the Power of Steam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead!
Support Restoration Efforts
Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine.
Prepare for the Scale
Steam locomotives are HUGE! Be ready to be impressed by its sheer size.
Engage with Volunteers
They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the 2926.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead!
Support Restoration Efforts
Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine.
Prepare for the Scale
Steam locomotives are HUGE! Be ready to be impressed by its sheer size.
Engage with Volunteers
They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the 2926.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the ATSF 2926 for its impressive restoration and the passion of its volunteer caretakers. The opportunity to see and even ride this historic steam locomotive is a highlight, offering a powerful connection to railroad history. Some visitors note that access is primarily through special events, requiring advance planning.
"Jim gave us a fantastic tour of the train! What a beauty she is! Accepts donations."
Irene Estlund
"Pete gave us a great tour & was very knowledgeable. My dad was beyond excited to be able to be in the engine & sit in the engineers seat! You made his day! Thank you for your hard work & dedication!"
Susan Schaefer
"Amazing tour with even more amazing people - the locomotive is truly a sight to see and it’s impressive the amount of work they put into it! 100000/10 would do again"
Tania Radinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ATSF 2926 is primarily located at the Wheels Museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It's also featured in special events and excursions throughout the area, sometimes near the Rail Yards or Tractor Brewing. Always check the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society's schedule for specific locations and event details.
Parking availability will depend on the specific location and event. For events at the Wheels Museum, standard museum parking should be available. For excursions, parking might be at designated event areas or near public transport hubs.
Yes, you can ride the 2926 during special excursion events organized by the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society. These are popular and tickets often sell out, so book in advance if possible.
Albuquerque is accessible by car, and the city has an Amtrak station for train travel. The Rail Runner Express also serves the region, though specific event timings might not always align.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to view the locomotive at the Wheels Museum may have an admission fee. However, for special events like excursions or photo run-bys, separate tickets are required and can sell out quickly.
Admission to the Wheels Museum has a fee. Excursion rides on the 2926 will have a separate ticket price, which varies by event. The society also gratefully accepts donations to support restoration.
The 2926 itself doesn't have set operating hours as it's a historic artifact. Its operational status is tied to scheduled events and restoration work. Check the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society's calendar for public viewing and excursion times.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets for 2926 excursions in advance online, as they often sell out. On-site availability is not guaranteed.
Discounts may be available for certain events or for members of the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society. Check their website for details.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a massive, beautifully restored steam locomotive. Volunteers offer insightful tours, and during special events, you might witness it moving under its own power or even ride it!
Volunteer-led tours typically last around 30-45 minutes, providing ample time to explore the locomotive and ask questions.
Accessibility can vary depending on the event and location. While the locomotive itself has many steps, viewing areas and some tours might be adaptable. It's best to contact the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society directly for specific accessibility information.
For dynamic shots, attend an excursion or photo run-by event. For static shots, the Wheels Museum offers good angles. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Wheels Museum or at designated event locations. Check event details for specific amenities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
When the 2926 is at the Wheels Museum, there are dining options within Albuquerque. For special events, like those at Tractor Brewing, food and beverages are often available on-site or nearby.
This depends on the specific event or location. For museum visits, outside food might be restricted. For excursions, check the event guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography
During excursions, trackside locations offer dynamic shots. At the Wheels Museum, you can get great angles of the stationary engine. Consider areas near Albuquerque Station or along its route during special runs.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged during excursions, but be mindful of other passengers and safety guidelines.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the locomotive's details and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be great for distant shots during excursions. Don't forget extra batteries!
Drone usage is typically restricted at public events and near operational rail lines due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations and event rules before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you can snag tickets for an excursion, it's an absolute thrill for children. The sounds, sights, and vibrations of a working steam engine are unforgettable. Consider bringing ear protection for younger children, as the whistle can be quite loud.
🚂 Rail Enthusiasts & Photographers
Follow the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society closely for announcements on these events. Being trackside during an excursion allows for capturing dynamic shots of the engine in motion, while static displays at the Wheels Museum provide opportunities for detailed shots of its intricate mechanics.
🏛️ History Buffs
Engage with the knowledgeable volunteers to learn about the locomotive's service life, its technical specifications, and the challenges of its restoration. It's a chance to connect with a tangible piece of history that shaped the development of the American West.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Restoration Journey of ATSF 2926
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society has been instrumental in bringing the 2926 back to life. This multi-year project involved countless volunteer hours and significant financial investment. Seeing the locomotive move under its own power again after 67 years is a remarkable achievement, symbolizing the preservation of vital railroad heritage.
Visitors can learn about this incredible journey through the knowledgeable volunteers who share their stories and insights. Supporting the society through donations is crucial for the continued maintenance and operation of this magnificent piece of history, ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations.
Experiencing a Steam Locomotive Excursion
Excursions often take the locomotive on short, scenic routes, sometimes from its home yard to local establishments like Tractor Brewing, allowing the public to witness its operational capabilities. The journey provides a visceral connection to the golden age of rail travel, with the sheer power and presence of the steam engine being awe-inspiring.
Tickets for these excursions are highly sought after and tend to sell out quickly. Planning in advance and securing your spot is essential for anyone wanting to experience the thrill of riding behind this historic locomotive. It's more than just a ride; it's a journey through history.
The Wheels Museum: A Hub for Transportation History
Visiting the Wheels Museum allows you to see the 2926 up close, even when it's not on an excursion. The museum's volunteers are often on hand to provide tours and share fascinating details about the locomotive's past and its ongoing restoration. It's a fantastic place to learn about Albuquerque's rich railway heritage.
Beyond the 2926, the museum offers a broader perspective on mechanical history, making it a worthwhile stop for families and history buffs alike. It's a place where the past truly comes alive, offering a tangible connection to the machines that shaped our world.
Social
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