Western America Railroad Museum
Explore historic locomotives & rail cars at this free museum, part of the iconic Barstow Harvey House. A nostalgic glimpse into Pacific Southwest rail...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Museum is open, less heat
Western America Railroad Museum
Best Time
Museum is open, less heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic locomotives & rail cars at this free museum, part of the iconic Barstow Harvey House. A nostalgic glimpse into Pacific Southwest railway history.
"A cool place to visit if you like trains and to see the large Barstow train station."
🎯 Verify Hours Before Visiting
Museum hours are limited (Fri-Sun, 11-3). Check website/phone to avoid disappointment.
💧 Beat the Desert Heat
Bring water and a hat for outdoor exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Rail Cars
Outdoor exhibits
Explore a variety of locomotives and passenger, tanker, and freight cars. Accessible 24/7.
Barstow Harvey House
Adjacent building
Admire the historic Amtrak station, a significant piece of railway history.
Passing Trains
Near the museum
Enjoy the thrill of watching active trains pass by while you're there.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours Before You Go
Embrace the Desert Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Verify Hours Before Visiting
Museum hours are limited (Fri-Sun, 11-3). Check website/phone to avoid disappointment.
💧 Beat the Desert Heat
Bring water and a hat for outdoor exploration.
🚶♂️ Explore Outdoor Exhibits Anytime
Historic rail cars are visible 24/7, even when the museum is closed.
🚂 Free Admission!
Enjoy this piece of American history without an entry fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Verify Hours Before Visiting
Museum hours are limited (Fri-Sun, 11-3). Check website/phone to avoid disappointment.
💧 Beat the Desert Heat
Bring water and a hat for outdoor exploration.
🚶♂️ Explore Outdoor Exhibits Anytime
Historic rail cars are visible 24/7, even when the museum is closed.
🚂 Free Admission!
Enjoy this piece of American history without an entry fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the free access to impressive historic train cars and locomotives, offering a tangible piece of American railway history. While the outdoor exhibits are always available, the limited indoor museum hours (Fri-Sun, 11 AM-3 PM) can be a point of frustration if not checked in advance. The location within the historic Barstow Harvey House adds to its charm.
"Unfortunate for us the museum was not open today, but we did get to explorer the outside of the museum. The museum is part of the Barstow Harvey House/Amtrak building and is only open from 1100 – 1500 hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is a large parking lot to the east and in the lot, you can see a variety of different locomotives, train cars including passengers, tankers and freight cars."
Thomas B
"Be careful if you plan to visit this museum during something like a holiday vacation time. I checked their website and their phone line before setting out on a 400 mile journey and booking two days in a motel only to find out they decided to not show up. 15 families waited and I can't thing what that German couple was thinking when those doors didn't open. I can't understand why they can't do something simple like update their website or phone message, even if something last minute happens. I only planned a month ahead of time."
Kevin Reardon
"Visited in May 2024. The train engines and train cars are definitely worth the stop to walk around and appreciate."
Rick White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within the Barstow Harvey House/Amtrak building. There is a large parking lot to the east of the building, making it easily accessible for those driving. +1
Yes, there is a large parking lot available to the east of the museum and the Barstow Harvey House.
The museum is part of the Barstow Amtrak station, so it's a convenient stop if you're arriving or departing by train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The indoor museum is typically open from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It's crucial to verify these hours before your visit as they can change.
No, admission to the museum is free, making it a great value for exploring railroad history.
Yes, the outdoor exhibits featuring various locomotives and train cars are accessible 24/7, even when the indoor museum is closed. +1
Unfortunately, some visitors have experienced unexpected closures. It's highly recommended to call ahead or check their official website for the most up-to-date information to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of historic rail cars, including passenger cars, tanker cars, and freight cars, as well as locomotives. +1
Yes, it's considered a great place for all ages, offering a glimpse into American history that can be fascinating for children.
Photography is generally welcomed, especially of the outdoor exhibits. Capture the impressive locomotives and historic train cars.
The museum is part of the historic Barstow Harvey House, which is an attraction in itself. You can also enjoy watching active trains pass by.
🎫 ☀️ Weather & What to Bring
Barstow is in a desert climate, so it can get very hot, especially during summer. Visiting in the cooler months or early in the day is advisable.
It's recommended to bring water and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and heat, particularly when exploring the outdoor exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring water and hats due to the desert heat. While the indoor museum has limited hours, the outdoor exhibits are always accessible, making it a flexible stop for families on a road trip. The chance to see active trains passing by adds an extra element of excitement.
🚗 Road Trippers
It's a great place to stretch your legs, take some photos, and learn a bit about the region's railway heritage. The free admission and easy parking make it a convenient and worthwhile detour on a long journey. Just be mindful of the desert heat and bring water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Rail Cars
Walking around these giants of the past offers a tangible connection to the era when trains were the backbone of American transportation. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography and for imagining the journeys these cars once made across the Pacific Southwest.
The Significance of the Barstow Harvey House
Originally built in 1911, the Harvey House was a vital stop for travelers, offering dining and lodging. Today, it continues to serve as an active Amtrak station, blending its historical significance with modern utility. Exploring the exterior and understanding its context adds another layer to the railroad experience.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Given Barstow's desert climate, staying hydrated and protected from the sun is crucial. Bring plenty of water and wear a hat, especially when exploring the outdoor exhibits. Despite the limited indoor hours, the outdoor rail cars are accessible around the clock, offering a great opportunity for a quick stop or a more in-depth look at these magnificent machines.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit