Travel Town Museum Los Angeles
Explore a free collection of historic trains and enjoy a miniature ride at Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More train activity
Travel Town Museum Los Angeles
Best Time
More train activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a free collection of historic trains and enjoy a miniature ride at Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park.
"LA's best kept secret: a free train museum with rides!"
🚂 Ride the Miniature Train
Don't miss the mile-long ride on the Travel Town Railroad for a fun perspective!
🤝 Visit LA Live Steamers
Check out the ride-on trains next door for more railway excitement.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Locomotives
Throughout the museum grounds
Explore a collection of vintage trains, including locomotives and passenger cars, some dating back to 1918.

Travel Town Railroad
Museum grounds
Enjoy a charming, mile-long miniature train ride that circles the museum, perfect for all ages.

LA Live Steamers
Adjacent to Travel Town Museum
Experience ride-on 7½" gauge trains for an extra dose of miniature railway fun.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Nearby Fun
Best for Young Explorers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Ride the Miniature Train
Don't miss the mile-long ride on the Travel Town Railroad for a fun perspective!
🤝 Visit LA Live Steamers
Check out the ride-on trains next door for more railway excitement.
💰 It's Free!
Admission to Travel Town Museum is free, making it a great value.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Much of the museum is outdoors, so dress accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Ride the Miniature Train
Don't miss the mile-long ride on the Travel Town Railroad for a fun perspective!
🤝 Visit LA Live Steamers
Check out the ride-on trains next door for more railway excitement.
💰 It's Free!
Admission to Travel Town Museum is free, making it a great value.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Much of the museum is outdoors, so dress accordingly.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of vintage trains make for great photos, especially for train enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travel Town Museum is widely praised as a free, nostalgic gem in Griffith Park, especially loved by families and train enthusiasts for its collection of historic locomotives and the charming miniature train ride. While some exhibits show signs of age, the overall experience is highly positive, offering a unique glimpse into railway history.
"Travel Town Railroad is an absolutely delightful and engaging museum-park — informative, well-organized, and simply a joy to visit. We’ve been several times already, and it’s never overly crowded, which makes the experience even more relaxing.
There’s a charming kids’ play area where children can bring their own toy cars or trains — perfect for imaginative play since toys aren’t provided there. Our kids always have a blast and never want to leave!
We’ve also ridden the locomotive several times, and on our most recent visit, we got to sit right behind the engineer. It’s thrilling to have that front-of-the-train vantage point, but be aware: it can be quite loud, and there’s a noticeable smell of fuel (probably gasoline or something similar). It was still a memorable experience — just something to keep in mind.
One of the most unique features is that you can celebrate birthdays inside the vintage train cars — such a fun, one-of-a-kind option! The whole atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, and our family absolutely loves it. Highly recommend Travel Town Railroad for a charming family outing."
Anna Yasakova
"For being FREE to the public and having cool exhibitions of old rail cars and getting to know the history is AWESOME! But taking a ride in a mini train with your family creating great memories PRICELESS! Also, don't forget to stop by the gift shop and buy something refreshing or yummy and support this amazing place!
AMAZING place for the kids and the whole family!"
tweek ninearts (tweek9arts)
"Great idea for toddlers and adults alike, train ride is $4 for adults and $3 for seniors and children. Wear comfortable shoes, clean restrooms available. Don't forget to visit the small gift shop for souvenirs, snacks and cold drinks! No entrance nor parking fee."
Heidi Padilla Ruvalcaba
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Travel Town Museum is located at 5200 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, within Griffith Park, near the Los Angeles Zoo. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options might involve bus routes that stop near the park entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum, though it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
While specific routes can vary, several Metro bus lines serve the Griffith Park area. It's best to check the current Metro schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near the museum.
Yes, Travel Town Museum is a beloved attraction located within the expansive Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California.
The museum is conveniently located near the Los Angeles Zoo and the LA Live Steamers, offering multiple attractions for a day out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, admission to the Travel Town Museum itself is completely free, making it an accessible and popular destination for families and train enthusiasts.
While museum admission is free, there is typically a small fee for the miniature train ride on the Travel Town Railroad. Check on-site for current pricing.
Operating hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official Travel Town Museum website or their social media for the most current hours before your visit.
Historically, Travel Town Museum has been a popular spot for birthday parties, with train cars available for rent. Inquire directly with the museum for current availability and booking information.
The museum occasionally hosts special events or has themed days. Following their social media or website is the best way to stay informed about any upcoming activities.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can explore a diverse collection of historic locomotives, passenger cars, and other railway equipment. Some exhibits may allow you to climb aboard.
Absolutely! The miniature train ride is a highlight for children and is designed to be safe and enjoyable for all ages.
While some exhibits may allow you to climb on, it's important to respect the historical nature of the trains. Look for signage indicating which areas are accessible.
Yes, the vintage trains and unique setting provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially for train enthusiasts and families.
Combine a walk-through of the museum's exhibits with a ride on the Travel Town Railroad and consider visiting the LA Live Steamers next door for a full day of train-themed fun.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, there are often snack vendors or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy in designated areas within Griffith Park.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy, especially if you plan to have a picnic in Griffith Park.
You'll find various dining options in the surrounding areas of Griffith Park, or you can head towards nearby neighborhoods like Los Feliz or Hollywood for a wider selection.
📸 📸 Photography
The vintage locomotives and passenger cars themselves are prime subjects. The Travel Town Railroad track offers dynamic shots, and the surrounding parkland provides scenic backdrops.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of any restrictions posted within specific train cars or exhibits.
It's ideal for capturing nostalgic, industrial, and family-oriented photos. Train enthusiasts will find it particularly rewarding.
While generally permissive, avoid using professional lighting equipment or drones without prior permission. Always respect the exhibits and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Railway History
The museum's commitment to preservation means you can see a variety of engines and cars, each with its own story. While some exhibits are purely for viewing, others offer a more interactive experience, allowing you to climb into the cabs or carriages. This hands-on approach makes the history come alive, especially for younger visitors who might not otherwise grasp the scale and significance of these iron giants.
Beyond the static displays, the museum is also home to the Travel Town Railroad, a miniature, mile-long train ride that circles the grounds. This charming attraction provides a delightful way to see the collection from a different perspective and is a guaranteed hit with families. It's this blend of historical artifacts and engaging activities that makes Travel Town Museum a unique destination in Los Angeles.
The Magic of Miniature Trains
Adjacent to Travel Town Museum, you'll find LA Live Steamers, another must-visit for miniature train aficionados. Here, you can experience the thrill of riding on actual 7½" gauge trains, which are meticulously maintained and operated by passionate volunteers. This offers a more immersive ride experience compared to the Travel Town Railroad, allowing you to feel the gentle sway and hear the chug of a miniature steam engine.
Visiting both attractions in one outing provides a comprehensive miniature railway adventure. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon, especially for families with young children or anyone with a deep appreciation for the intricate world of model and miniature trains. The combination ensures a memorable day filled with the sights and sounds of steam and steel.
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