Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico - Old Steam Train
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Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico

4.8
·210 reviews·Albuquerque, United States

Witness the majestic ATSF 2926 steam locomotive, a restored 1944 icon of New Mexico's railroad heritage. Experience its power!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Special Event Days

See it move under its own power!

CrowdMedium
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Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico - Old Steam Train

Steam Locomotive 2926 New Mexico

Best Time

Special Event Days

See it move under its own power!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the majestic ATSF 2926 steam locomotive, a restored 1944 icon of New Mexico's railroad heritage. Experience its power!

4.8
(210 reviews)

"The volunteers are friendly and very knowledgeable! Had a lot of fun talking to them. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead!

Support Restoration Efforts

Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

ATSF 2926 Locomotive

ATSF 2926 Locomotive

A magnificent 4-8-4 Northern steam locomotive, restored to operational status. Feel the power and history!

The Engine Cab Experience

The Engine Cab Experience

Inside the locomotive cab

Step into the engineer's seat and imagine hauling trains across the country. A truly immersive historical moment.

Volunteer-Led Tours

Volunteer-Led Tours

Gain deep insights from dedicated volunteers who share the locomotive's rich history and restoration journey.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the 2926

The historic ATSF 2926 steam locomotive is a must-see for train enthusiasts in New Mexico. Check the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society's schedule for special events and excursions, as access is often tied to these. Donations are highly appreciated to support ongoing restoration efforts. Reddit

Experience the Power of Steam

Witnessing the 2926 move under its own power is a rare treat. These locomotives are massive, and seeing them in action offers a tangible connection to railroad history. Volunteers are passionate and knowledgeable, making for an engaging visit. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Special Event Days
Why
See it move under its own power!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (check schedule)
Why
Often open for tours and events
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ATSF 2926 On The Mainline! #locomotive #steamengine #albuquerque #santafe #new_mexico #train #railroad #atsf
@kindacircle
195 likes • 3K views

Check Event Schedules

Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead! TikTokInstagram

Support Restoration Efforts

Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine. Reddit

This is a train video I shot back in September 29, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Wheels Museum. Built in 1944 by Baldwin, this #4-8-4 Northern steam locomotive hauled fast passenger trains for the Santa Fe Railway. At nearly 1 million pounds, it was a monster of its time! Retired in 1953, displayed in Albuquerque, and after a 20-year restoration, it came back to life in 2021. Now one of t...
@zach_on_track711
28 likes • 581 views
Attending the 1st year anniversary of the Santa Fe 2926 locomotive of the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society in Albuquerque. Escaping the Gate. 🚂 #SantaFe2926 #ATSF #ABQRailyards #SteamTrain #NewMexico #newmexicosteamlocomotive #Albuquerque #TractorBrewingCo #TrainsofInstagram #railfan #railfans_of_instagram #railpictures #railroad #SantaFeRailroad #SantaFe #Railroad #Rail...
railroad_collectibles
151 likes • 1.7K views

Prepare for the Scale

Steam locomotives are HUGE! Be ready to be impressed by its sheer size. Reddit

Engage with Volunteers

They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the 2926. Reddit

Attending the 1st excursion of the Santa Fe 2926 locomotive of the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society in Albuquerque. #SantaFe2926 #ATSF #ABQRailyards #SteamTrain #santaferailroad #newmexicosteamlocomotive #Albuquerque #TractorBrewingCo #TrainsofInstagram #railfan #railfans_of_instagram #railpictures #railroad #loco #NewMexico #NationalTrainDay #new_mexico_heritage_rail
calvin_korab
30 likes • 306 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Access is often tied to special events or excursions. Plan ahead! TikTokInstagram

Support Restoration Efforts

Donations are crucial for maintaining this historic steam engine. Reddit

Prepare for the Scale

Steam locomotives are HUGE! Be ready to be impressed by its sheer size. Reddit

Engage with Volunteers

They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the 2926. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(210 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the ATSF 2926 for its impressive restoration and the passion of its volunteer caretakers. The opportunity to see and even ride this historic steam locomotive is a highlight, offering a powerful connection to railroad history. Some visitors note that access is primarily through special events, requiring advance planning.

"Jim gave us a fantastic tour of the train! What a beauty she is! Accepts donations."

Irene Estlund

"Pete gave us a great tour & was very knowledgeable. My dad was beyond excited to be able to be in the engine & sit in the engineers seat! You made his day! Thank you for your hard work & dedication!"

Susan Schaefer

"Amazing tour with even more amazing people - the locomotive is truly a sight to see and it’s impressive the amount of work they put into it! 100000/10 would do again"

Tania Radinson

What People Like

Magnificent restoration
Knowledgeable volunteers
Immersive historical experience

What People Dislike

Event-dependent access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The ATSF 2926 is primarily located at the Wheels Museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It's also featured in special events and excursions throughout the area, sometimes near the Rail Yards or Tractor Brewing. Always check the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society's schedule for specific locations and event details. TikTokInstagram

Parking availability will depend on the specific location and event. For events at the Wheels Museum, standard museum parking should be available. For excursions, parking might be at designated event areas or near public transport hubs. TikTok

Yes, you can ride the 2926 during special excursion events organized by the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society. These are popular and tickets often sell out, so book in advance if possible. TikTokInstagram

Albuquerque is accessible by car, and the city has an Amtrak station for train travel. The Rail Runner Express also serves the region, though specific event timings might not always align. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General access to view the locomotive at the Wheels Museum may have an admission fee. However, for special events like excursions or photo run-bys, separate tickets are required and can sell out quickly. TikTokInstagram

Admission to the Wheels Museum has a fee. Excursion rides on the 2926 will have a separate ticket price, which varies by event. The society also gratefully accepts donations to support restoration. Reddit

The 2926 itself doesn't have set operating hours as it's a historic artifact. Its operational status is tied to scheduled events and restoration work. Check the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society's calendar for public viewing and excursion times. TikTok

It's highly recommended to purchase tickets for 2926 excursions in advance online, as they often sell out. On-site availability is not guaranteed. Instagram

Discounts may be available for certain events or for members of the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society. Check their website for details. Reddit

🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience

You can expect to see a massive, beautifully restored steam locomotive. Volunteers offer insightful tours, and during special events, you might witness it moving under its own power or even ride it! TikTokReddit

Volunteer-led tours typically last around 30-45 minutes, providing ample time to explore the locomotive and ask questions. Reddit

Accessibility can vary depending on the event and location. While the locomotive itself has many steps, viewing areas and some tours might be adaptable. It's best to contact the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society directly for specific accessibility information. TikTok

For dynamic shots, attend an excursion or photo run-by event. For static shots, the Wheels Museum offers good angles. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light. TikTokInstagram

Restroom facilities are typically available at the Wheels Museum or at designated event locations. Check event details for specific amenities. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

When the 2926 is at the Wheels Museum, there are dining options within Albuquerque. For special events, like those at Tractor Brewing, food and beverages are often available on-site or nearby. Instagram+1

This depends on the specific event or location. For museum visits, outside food might be restricted. For excursions, check the event guidelines. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

During excursions, trackside locations offer dynamic shots. At the Wheels Museum, you can get great angles of the stationary engine. Consider areas near Albuquerque Station or along its route during special runs. TikTok+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged during excursions, but be mindful of other passengers and safety guidelines. TikTokInstagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the locomotive's details and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be great for distant shots during excursions. Don't forget extra batteries! TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at public events and near operational rail lines due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations and event rules before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The ATSF 2926 is a fantastic attraction for families! Kids are often mesmerized by the sheer size and power of steam locomotives. Visiting the Wheels Museum provides a great opportunity to see the 2926 up close, and the museum itself has other interesting exhibits that can capture a child's attention. TikTok

If you can snag tickets for an excursion, it's an absolute thrill for children. The sounds, sights, and vibrations of a working steam engine are unforgettable. Consider bringing ear protection for younger children, as the whistle can be quite loud. TikTokInstagram

🚂 Rail Enthusiasts & Photographers

For dedicated railfans and photographers, the ATSF 2926 is a dream come true. Witnessing this meticulously restored locomotive in operation, especially during special excursions or photo run-bys, offers unparalleled photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Follow the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society closely for announcements on these events. Being trackside during an excursion allows for capturing dynamic shots of the engine in motion, while static displays at the Wheels Museum provide opportunities for detailed shots of its intricate mechanics. TikTokInstagram

🏛️ History Buffs

The ATSF 2926 offers a direct link to America's industrial past. Its restoration is a story of preservation and dedication, highlighting the importance of maintaining our transportation heritage. TikTokReddit

Engage with the knowledgeable volunteers to learn about the locomotive's service life, its technical specifications, and the challenges of its restoration. It's a chance to connect with a tangible piece of history that shaped the development of the American West. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Restoration Journey of ATSF 2926

The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe (ATSF) 2926 is a testament to dedication and passion. Built in 1944 by Baldwin Locomotive Works, this 4-8-4 Northern type steam locomotive served the Santa Fe Railway for nearly a decade before being retired in 1953. It spent decades on static display in Albuquerque before a monumental restoration effort began. TikTokInstagram

The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society has been instrumental in bringing the 2926 back to life. This multi-year project involved countless volunteer hours and significant financial investment. Seeing the locomotive move under its own power again after 67 years is a remarkable achievement, symbolizing the preservation of vital railroad heritage. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors can learn about this incredible journey through the knowledgeable volunteers who share their stories and insights. Supporting the society through donations is crucial for the continued maintenance and operation of this magnificent piece of history, ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations. Reddit

Experiencing a Steam Locomotive Excursion

Riding behind the ATSF 2926 is an unforgettable experience that transports you back in time. These excursions, organized by the NM Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society, offer a unique opportunity to feel the rumble and hear the whistle of a true steam giant. TikTokInstagram

Excursions often take the locomotive on short, scenic routes, sometimes from its home yard to local establishments like Tractor Brewing, allowing the public to witness its operational capabilities. The journey provides a visceral connection to the golden age of rail travel, with the sheer power and presence of the steam engine being awe-inspiring. Instagram+1

Tickets for these excursions are highly sought after and tend to sell out quickly. Planning in advance and securing your spot is essential for anyone wanting to experience the thrill of riding behind this historic locomotive. It's more than just a ride; it's a journey through history. Instagram

The Wheels Museum: A Hub for Transportation History

The Wheels Museum, located in Albuquerque, serves as the primary home and operational base for the ATSF 2926. This museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in transportation history, featuring a diverse collection of vintage vehicles, aircraft, and, of course, locomotives. TikTok+1

Visiting the Wheels Museum allows you to see the 2926 up close, even when it's not on an excursion. The museum's volunteers are often on hand to provide tours and share fascinating details about the locomotive's past and its ongoing restoration. It's a fantastic place to learn about Albuquerque's rich railway heritage. Reddit

Beyond the 2926, the museum offers a broader perspective on mechanical history, making it a worthwhile stop for families and history buffs alike. It's a place where the past truly comes alive, offering a tangible connection to the machines that shaped our world. TikTok

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