Travel Town Museum, Los Angeles - a tall building with a museum sign on it's side
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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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More train activity

CrowdMedium
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Travel Town Museum, Los Angeles - a tall building with a museum sign on it's side

Travel Town Museum Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekends

More train activity

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(2k reviews)

"LA's best kept secret: a free train museum with rides!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚂 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Locomotives

Historic Locomotives

Throughout the museum grounds

Explore a collection of vintage trains, including locomotives and passenger cars, some dating back to 1918.

Reddit
Travel Town Railroad

Travel Town Railroad

Museum grounds

Enjoy a charming, mile-long miniature train ride that circles the museum, perfect for all ages.

Instagram
LA Live Steamers

LA Live Steamers

Adjacent to Travel Town Museum

Experience ride-on 7½" gauge trains for an extra dose of miniature railway fun.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Nearby Fun

Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park offers free admission, making it a budget-friendly gem. Combine your visit with a ride on the LA Live Steamers' miniature trains next door for an extended railway adventure. Reddit

Best for Young Explorers

This museum is a dream for kids who love trains, offering a chance to see and sometimes even climb on historic locomotives. It's a nostalgic spot for adults too, reminiscent of childhood birthday parties. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More train activity
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in DTLA. Felt like a little kid again! @Balloon Museum #balloonmuseum #museum #dtla
@kellywinnn
3.2M likes • 19.8M views

🚂 Ride the Miniature Train

Don't miss the mile-long ride on the Travel Town Railroad for a fun perspective! Instagram

🤝 Visit LA Live Steamers

Check out the ride-on trains next door for more railway excitement. Reddit

Seeing the beauty and the beast rose in real life🫢🥀✨ @Academy Museum @Disney Studios #losangeles #academymuseumgala #academymuseum #beautyandthebeast #beastcastle #enchantedrose #disneystudios
@riri37641
272.1K likes • 1.1M views
We are here everyday, and we would love to see you. Enjoy cooler fall weather in Griffith Park and a lovely ride on the rails at Travel Town Railroad (located inside the lovely Travel Town Museum). ...
griffithparktrainrides
149 likes • 4.1K views

💰 It's Free!

Admission to Travel Town Museum is free, making it a great value. Reddit

☀️ Dress for the Weather

Much of the museum is outdoors, so dress accordingly. Instagram

Things to do in LA: @Balloon Museum is a stunning contemporary art exhibition in DTLA that inmerses you in colorful worlds, encouraging play, and sparking joy. #balloonmuseum #thingstodoinla
@drewmtillman
216.8K likes • 3.9M views

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! Instagram

🤝 Visit LA Live Steamers

Check out the ride-on trains next door for more railway excitement. Reddit

💰 It's Free!

Admission to Travel Town Museum is free, making it a great value. Reddit

☀️ Dress for the Weather

Much of the museum is outdoors, so dress accordingly. Instagram

📸 Photo Opportunities

Plenty of vintage trains make for great photos, especially for train enthusiasts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

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

Free admission
Historic trains
Miniature train ride

What People Dislike

Some exhibits aging
Limited food options

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the museum, though it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Travel Town Museum is a beloved attraction located within the expansive Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California. Instagram

The museum is conveniently located near the Los Angeles Zoo and the LA Live Steamers, offering multiple attractions for a day out. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🚂 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. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The miniature train ride is a highlight for children and is designed to be safe and enjoyable for all ages. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, the vintage trains and unique setting provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially for train enthusiasts and families. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of any restrictions posted within specific train cars or exhibits. Reddit

It's ideal for capturing nostalgic, industrial, and family-oriented photos. Train enthusiasts will find it particularly rewarding. Reddit

While generally permissive, avoid using professional lighting equipment or drones without prior permission. Always respect the exhibits and other visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Travel Town Museum is a fantastic, free outing for families. The main draw for kids is the chance to see and sometimes even climb on historic trains. The Travel Town Railroad offers a fun, short ride that’s perfect for little ones. Instagram Don't forget to check out LA Live Steamers next door for more ride-on train fun! Reddit Pack snacks and drinks, as food options are limited on-site, and enjoy a day of imaginative play in Griffith Park. Reddit

🚂 Train Enthusiasts

This museum is a must-visit for serious train buffs. You'll find a diverse collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock, including some significant historical pieces like the Union Pacific #4439. Reddit Take your time exploring each exhibit, and consider researching specific engines beforehand to appreciate their unique histories. The adjacent LA Live Steamers offers a different, but equally engaging, miniature railway experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Travel Town Museum is an absolute gem for budget-conscious travelers, as admission is completely free. Reddit You can spend hours exploring the impressive collection of trains without spending a dime. The only potential cost would be for the optional miniature train ride on the Travel Town Railroad or if you choose to ride the trains at LA Live Steamers next door. InstagramReddit It's a perfect way to enjoy a significant Los Angeles attraction without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Railway History

Travel Town Museum is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the golden age of rail travel. It houses a remarkable collection of historic locomotives, passenger cars, and other railway equipment, offering a tangible connection to the past. Many of these magnificent machines, like the Union Pacific #4439 built in 1918, have been meticulously preserved and some even allow visitors to step aboard and imagine life on the rails. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram 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

For an extra dose of railway enchantment, the Travel Town Railroad offers a delightful miniature train ride. This mile-long journey takes you on a scenic loop around the museum grounds, providing a unique vantage point to admire the collection of vintage trains. It’s an experience that consistently brings smiles to faces of all ages, evoking a sense of childlike wonder. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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