Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit
A charming free museum showcasing a detailed 1940s Foley model train exhibit and historic rail cars, with fun park train rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Special train rides offered
Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit
Best Time
Special train rides offered
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming free museum showcasing a detailed 1940s Foley model train exhibit and historic rail cars, with fun park train rides.
"A gem near the beach, offering free admission and captivating model trains for all ages!"
Free Admission Gem
Admission is free! A fantastic value for families and train enthusiasts. :moneywithwings:
Interactive Fun for Kids
Kids can press buttons to activate parts of the model train layout. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Model Train Exhibit
Indoor Exhibit Hall
A detailed 1940s Foley replica with working locomotives and interactive elements. Kids can press buttons to activate features!
Park Train Rides
Heritage Park
Enjoy a charming ride on a small train that circles the park, offering a fun experience for all ages.
Historic Train Cars
Outdoor Display
Explore actual vintage train cars on display, offering a glimpse into railway history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Free Admission & Family Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission Gem
Admission is free! A fantastic value for families and train enthusiasts. :moneywithwings:
Interactive Fun for Kids
Kids can press buttons to activate parts of the model train layout. :child:
Check Train Ride Schedule
Train rides are seasonal and on specific days. Check ahead for availability. :ticket:
Cool Off Indoors
The model train exhibit is air-conditioned, perfect for escaping the Alabama heat. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission Gem
Admission is free! A fantastic value for families and train enthusiasts. :moneywithwings:
Interactive Fun for Kids
Kids can press buttons to activate parts of the model train layout. :child:
Check Train Ride Schedule
Train rides are seasonal and on specific days. Check ahead for availability. :ticket:
Cool Off Indoors
The model train exhibit is air-conditioned, perfect for escaping the Alabama heat. :snowflake:
Close to Beaches
Just a short drive from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Foley Railroad Museum as a delightful and free attraction, especially for families. The detailed model train exhibit and the charming park train rides are consistent highlights. While it's a smaller museum, its interactive elements and friendly atmosphere make it a memorable stop, particularly for those visiting the nearby beaches.
"This is a great little museum. My son loves the model railroad. It is a smaller train museum but he loved it and the small train ride."
Lauren Lorenz
"Very fun. They have a little train to drive around the park. Very nice staff, clean area and air conditioned."
L M (Nuggets)
""
Mamie Putman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Heritage Park in downtown Foley, Alabama. It's a short drive from popular beach destinations like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, making it an easy addition to your coastal Alabama itinerary.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available in Heritage Park, especially during off-peak hours.
Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. It's best accessed by car, especially if you're visiting from nearby beach towns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit is completely free! This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly option for families and visitors.
Operating hours can vary, especially for the train rides. It's recommended to check the official Visit Foley website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on hours and special events.
While general admission is free, the park train rides may have specific schedules and might benefit from advance booking or checking availability on the day, especially during busy periods like Spring Break.
The indoor model train exhibit is generally open during museum hours. It's a great place to cool off and enjoy the detailed layouts.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic train cars on display outdoors, and marvel at an extensive indoor model train exhibit that recreates 1940s Foley. There are also train rides available in the park. 
Absolutely! Children can enjoy pressing interactive buttons on the model train layout to activate different features, and the park train rides are a big hit.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged. Capture the details of the model trains and the historic train cars.
The outdoor areas and the indoor exhibit are generally accessible. The train rides might have specific boarding procedures, so it's good to inquire on-site.
The model train layout is described as a 20x60 ft display, meticulously crafted to bring 1940s Foley to life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, downtown Foley has several local eateries and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat.
Picnic areas might be available in Heritage Park. It's always a good idea to check local park regulations regarding outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate details of the model train layout, the historic train cars, and happy families enjoying the park train rides. The interactive buttons on the model layout also make for fun, engaging shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and around attractions. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by park authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park train rides are a definite highlight, offering a fun experience for little ones. +1 It's also a great way to escape the heat, as the model train exhibit is air-conditioned. The museum's proximity to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach makes it an easy and worthwhile stop on your family vacation. 🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Beyond the models, the opportunity to see and explore actual historic train cars provides a valuable historical perspective. If you're interested in local model railroad clubs, the S.W.A.R.M. (SW Al Railroad Modelers) is near Mobile, and there's also a club in Pensacola. 💰 Budget Travelers
You can enjoy hours of entertainment exploring the detailed model train exhibit and seeing historic train cars without spending a dime. The park train rides are an optional, low-cost activity that adds extra fun. +1 It's a perfect way to have a memorable experience without breaking the bank, especially when visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Model Train Exhibit: A Miniature Foley
The exhibit is designed to be engaging for all ages, with interactive buttons that children can press to activate various features within the miniature town, bringing the scene to life. It's a testament to the passion and craftsmanship involved in model railroading, offering a unique glimpse into local history through a beloved hobby. This exhibit is not just a static display; it's a dynamic representation that captures the imagination. The attention to detail, from the tiny buildings to the moving trains, makes it a captivating experience. It’s a perfect example of how hobbies can preserve and share local heritage.
Beyond the Exhibit: Train Rides and Historic Cars
These cars provide a tangible connection to the era of rail travel and offer great photo opportunities. Adding to the excitement, the museum offers train rides through Heritage Park on a smaller, child-friendly train.
+1 These rides are particularly popular during special events like Spring Break and offer a fun, scenic way to experience the park. It’s a delightful addition that enhances the overall railroad theme and provides an active, enjoyable experience for younger visitors. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit