
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum Portland Maine
Ride vintage trains along the scenic Maine coast, with historical narration and charming waterfront views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum Portland Maine
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride vintage trains along the scenic Maine coast, with historical narration and charming waterfront views.
"A delightful family outing with charming conductors and beautiful coastal views."

🚂 Book Polar Express Early
This popular holiday ride sells out quickly! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot for the magic.
☕ First Class Perks
Consider first class for included snacks and drinks, making the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Coastal Train Ride
Portland Waterfront
Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from a vintage train, with historical narration adding depth to the journey.

The Polar Express Experience
Departs from Portland
A magical holiday journey to the North Pole with Santa, hot chocolate, cookies, and a souvenir bell.

Two-Foot Gauge Railroad History
Museum exhibits
Learn about the unique history of Maine's narrow-gauge railways through informative displays and conductor stories.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Rides
Consider First Class for Extra Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Book Polar Express Early
This popular holiday ride sells out quickly! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot for the magic.
☕ First Class Perks
Consider first class for included snacks and drinks, making the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable.
📸 Capture Coastal Views
The ocean views are stunning! Have your camera ready to snap photos of the beautiful Maine coastline.
🚶♀️ Break from Walking
A great option to rest your feet while still enjoying Portland's charm and learning local history.
Taking a Ride on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, Portland, Maine.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Book Polar Express Early
This popular holiday ride sells out quickly! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot for the magic.
☕ First Class Perks
Consider first class for included snacks and drinks, making the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable.
📸 Capture Coastal Views
The ocean views are stunning! Have your camera ready to snap photos of the beautiful Maine coastline.
🚶♀️ Break from Walking
A great option to rest your feet while still enjoying Portland's charm and learning local history.
🎁 Cute Gift Shop
Don't miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs and essentials for your train ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad for its charming coastal rides and friendly staff. The historical narration adds an educational layer to the scenic journey, making it a delightful experience for families and history lovers alike. While some note the 'museum' aspect is limited, the overall value and enjoyment of the train ride are highly regarded.
"An excellent trip on this railroad! Easy to book online in advance ( or you can book in the shop on the day ) very close to the cruise terminal. You can chose to sit in first class or standard. Both are lovely! Great views! Try and sit on the right side of the train for gorgeous bay views.
If you buy first class online, head into the shop for your drink and snack. We had a whoopie cake, delicious!
A short ride along the bay, beautiful views. Would be great for any train loving kids or big kids! A visit takes about an hour."
Lois : No Cruise Control
"It's short but fun for cruise boaters who haven't got the stamina for long walks. You get to see the shore line and hear the history of the trains. Plus the staff were super helpful and accommodating for mobility challenged people."
Mary S.
"Round trip, it's a 40 minute ride. The cost is fairly inexpensive. Check out their website. Can add snacks and water for pretty cheap. Restrooms here. Along with a gift shop and snacks. My only reason for four stars is it's just so short. But my kids enjoyed it."
Slim S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is located at 49 Thames St, Portland, ME 04101. It's easily accessible by car, and there is parking available nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from downtown Portland's waterfront area.
Yes, there is parking available near the station. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during busy periods, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is situated along the waterfront, making it a walkable distance from many downtown Portland hotels and attractions. It's a nice way to see the harbor.
If you're coming from out of town, flying into Portland International Jetport (PWM) is an option. Alternatively, driving or taking a bus are common ways to reach Portland.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the railroad, many vintage train experiences aim to accommodate visitors. It's best to call ahead to discuss any specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ride and seating. Standard rides are reasonably priced, while special events like The Polar Express have different pricing structures. It's best to check their official website for current rates.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets at the station, and some visitors have reported buying them just minutes before their ride. However, for popular events or times, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Operating hours and days vary seasonally and by event. The railroad typically runs rides from spring through fall, with special holiday schedules. Always check their website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, absolutely! The Polar Express is an extremely popular holiday event and tickets sell out very quickly. Booking online well in advance is essential.
Yes, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad often offers different seating options, including a first-class car that includes snacks and drinks for an enhanced experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The standard train ride typically lasts around 45 minutes. This duration is perfect for holding the attention of children and offering a relaxing break for adults.
You'll enjoy scenic views of the beautiful Maine coastline and Portland's harbor. The conductor also provides historical narration about the area and the narrow-gauge railroad.
While it's called a museum, some visitors note it's more focused on the train experience itself, with a limited display of artifacts. The primary draw is the train ride and its historical context.
The Polar Express is a festive holiday event featuring a train ride to the 'North Pole,' complete with hot chocolate, cookies, a visit from Santa, and a souvenir bell. It's a magical experience for families.
Restrooms are typically available on the train for passenger convenience during the ride.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can purchase drinks like water and soda at the station or on the train. First-class tickets often include complimentary snacks and drinks.
The railroad is located on Portland's waterfront, which is surrounded by numerous restaurants and eateries offering a variety of cuisines. You'll find plenty of options within walking distance.
Snacks available for purchase or included in first-class tickets typically include items like cookies and other light refreshments.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume purchased items or those provided with your ticket. Check with the railroad if you have specific dietary needs.
Portland's waterfront and Old Port area offer many family-friendly dining choices, from casual pizza places to seafood restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The train itself, with the coastal backdrop, makes for excellent photos. Try to capture the train moving along the tracks with the ocean in the background.
Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos from the train windows. The ocean views and the vintage train cars offer great photographic opportunities.
The Polar Express offers magical photo ops, especially with the festive decorations, Santa, and the train lit up at night.
Morning light can be beautiful for coastal shots, while late afternoon can offer a warm glow. For The Polar Express, evening is when the magic truly shines.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids often love the novelty of the vintage train and the stories told by the conductor. It's a low-stress outing that provides both entertainment and a gentle introduction to local history. Don't forget to check out the gift shop for fun souvenirs!
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on costs, although first-class tickets do offer added amenities. The walk from downtown Portland is free and offers scenic harbor views, saving on transportation expenses.
❤️ Couples & History Buffs
History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to learn about the unique two-foot gauge railways and their significance to Maine's past. The historical narration provides fascinating insights into a niche area of railroading.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of Two-Foot Gauge Railways
Visitors can learn about the engineering ingenuity and the economic impact these railways had on the state. The historical narration provided during the rides offers insights into how these trains connected communities and facilitated commerce along the coast. It's a chance to step back in time and appreciate a distinct piece of American industrial heritage.
Experiencing a ride on these narrow-gauge tracks provides a tangible connection to the past. The smaller scale of the locomotives and cars offers a different perspective compared to standard gauge railways, making the journey feel more intimate and historically significant.
A Family-Friendly Adventure on the Coast
For a truly magical experience, especially during the holiday season, The Polar Express is a must-do. This themed ride transforms the train into a festive wonderland, complete with Santa, hot chocolate, and a special souvenir. It's the kind of memory that creates lasting joy for kids.
Beyond the ride itself, the friendly staff and the charming conductor contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. The gift shop also offers fun souvenirs, making it a complete outing for the whole family. It’s a delightful way to introduce children to history and the beauty of the Maine coast in a fun and accessible way.
Experiencing Portland's Waterfront History
While the 'museum' aspect might be limited to a few artifacts, the historical context provided by the train's operation and the conductor's stories are invaluable. It’s a chance to understand how the narrow-gauge railways played a role in shaping the local landscape and economy.
For visitors looking for a relaxing way to explore a piece of Portland's heritage without extensive walking, this railroad is an ideal choice. It offers a gentle immersion into the past, combining a pleasant journey with educational insights into a specific niche of railway history.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit