Forney Museum of Transportation - an antique car on display in a museum
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Forney Museum of Transportation

4.7
·2k reviews·Denver, United States

Explore a vast collection of vintage cars, locomotives, motorcycles, and more, showcasing the evolution of transportation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Forney Museum of Transportation - an antique car on display in a museum

Forney Museum of Transportation

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a vast collection of vintage cars, locomotives, motorcycles, and more, showcasing the evolution of transportation.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Truly something for everyone, from massive steam locomotives to classic cars and bikes!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend 1-4 hours here, especially if you love details. Don't rush the experience!

📸 Capture the history

The museum is a photographer's dream with unique vehicles. Great for #forneymuseumoftransportation photos!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Big Boy Steam Locomotive

Big Boy Steam Locomotive

Main Hall

Marvel at one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, a truly awe-inspiring piece of engineering history.

Amelia Earhart's Kissel

Amelia Earhart's Kissel

Automotive Exhibits

See Amelia Earhart's first car, a 1923 Kissel Gold Bug, a testament to her adventurous spirit.

Diverse Vehicle Collection

Diverse Vehicle Collection

Throughout the museum

Explore a vast array of vintage cars, motorcycles, carriages, and even aircraft, showcasing transportation's evolution.

SAAB Exhibit

SAAB Exhibit

Rotating Exhibits Area

Discover a special showcase dedicated to the iconic SAAB brand, a must-see for car aficionados.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Arrive early, especially if you want to see the popular steam locomotives without many people around. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.

Family Fun Focus

While many exhibits can't be touched, the Forney Museum of Transportation offers a captivating indoor experience for train and car enthusiasts of all ages. Toddlers might enjoy seeing the large vehicles, but supervision is key due to the 'look, don't touch' policy.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Special events possible
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Family-friendly atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#LIVEhighlights #TikTokLIVE #LIVE #bigboystraintoys #anniesub #denvertrainsdotcom #fyp #denvertrainsdotcom #herewego @ForneyMuseumOfTransportation
@bigboystraintoys
296 likes • 5K views

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend 1-4 hours here, especially if you love details. Don't rush the experience! Reddit

📸 Capture the history

The museum is a photographer's dream with unique vehicles. Great for #forneymuseumoftransportation photos! Instagram

📍Forney Museum of Transportation クラシックカー好き🚗😍 67年間で集めた800台のクラシックな乗り物の博物館🚂🚁🚲️🚗🏍️ . 67 years collection of over 800 artifacts relating to historical transportation! . #uroragram
uroragram
115 likes • 702 views
I was able to visit The Forney with family today. And as I Have mentioned before- this is an often overlooked gem right here in our own Backyard! The Forney Museum of Transportation is a top museum for me! I obviously love all things vintage (hehe). But this is vintage. AND restoration- and just to see humankinds progress with transportation- is truly fascinating! The Forney has a revolving exhi...
midmodcolorado
79 likes • 2.5K views

🚗 SAAB exhibit alert!

Don't miss the SAAB exhibit, often featured until February. Check their website for dates! Instagram

🚂 Train lover's paradise

The Big Boy locomotive is a highlight, with videos explaining steam engine mechanics. Reddit

SAAB exhibit at the Forney Museum of Transportation — check it out until February!forneymuseum.comThe Forney Transportation Museum is a one-of-a-kind collection of over 500 exhibits relating to historical transportation. #saab #forneymuseum #caraficionado #carnut #ilovecars #303events #lambdacarclub #denvercolorado #visitdenver
rtonysmith
3 likes • 275 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend 1-4 hours here, especially if you love details. Don't rush the experience! Reddit

📸 Capture the history

The museum is a photographer's dream with unique vehicles. Great for #forneymuseumoftransportation photos! Instagram

🚗 SAAB exhibit alert!

Don't miss the SAAB exhibit, often featured until February. Check their website for dates! Instagram

🚂 Train lover's paradise

The Big Boy locomotive is a highlight, with videos explaining steam engine mechanics. Reddit

🎁 Awesome gift shop

Find unique souvenirs and gifts related to transportation history. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Forney Museum of Transportation for its incredible collection of vintage vehicles, from massive steam locomotives to classic cars and motorcycles. Many highlight the awe-inspiring Big Boy locomotive and the diverse exhibits that offer something for everyone. The friendly staff and well-curated displays contribute to a highly recommended experience for families and enthusiasts alike.

"Incredible museum!!! I had so much fun exploring here, the exhibit is so well curated and it was so cool to see all the old trains up close and learn about their history. There’s also a huge selection of old cars and bikes and carriages and planes, truly something for everyone. Highly highly recommend!"

Melanie Tosik

"This place was so much fun to visit. They have a great collection of different type of transportation vehicles from cars, airplanes , and motorcycles. It was definitely fun for the whole family.And we really enjoyed it. The gift shop is awesome, and the employees were super helpful and nice."

Ashley Irvin

"This place has some of the most amazing cars I’ve ever seen. They also have one of 8 of the largest steam locomotives ever built. I had full body chills the entire walk through. I highly recommend this place if you have any time to spare on a tripe or especially if you’re local."

Samantha Warner

What People Like

Impressive vehicle collection
Big Boy locomotive
Diverse exhibits

What People Dislike

Some exhibits can't be touched

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Forney Museum of Transportation is located in Denver, Colorado. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the museum's vicinity. Instagram

Yes, the museum typically offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current parking information and any associated fees. Instagram

Information on specific bus or light rail lines serving the Forney Museum of Transportation can be found on the Denver public transit website. Travelers often recommend checking routes that go near the museum's address for convenience. Instagram

The museum is generally designed to be accessible. Most exhibits are on a single level, making it easier to navigate. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details. Reddit

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the Forney Museum of Transportation. Simply set the museum as your destination. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the Forney Museum of Transportation can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date admission fees and any potential discounts. TikTok

Yes, purchasing Forney Museum of Transportation tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during peak times. TikTok

The museum's operating hours can change seasonally. Always consult the official Forney Museum of Transportation website for the most accurate daily hours and any holiday closures. Instagram

The Forney Museum of Transportation frequently hosts rotating exhibits, such as the SAAB exhibit mentioned, and special events. Check their website for current and upcoming attractions. Instagram+1

Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. Inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any applicable admission specials. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Forney Museum of Transportation boasts an impressive collection of vintage cars, locomotives, motorcycles, carriages, and even aircraft, showcasing the history of transportation. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a great indoor option for kids, especially those fascinated by trains and cars. While many exhibits can't be touched, the sheer scale of vehicles like the Big Boy locomotive is captivating. Reddit

Most visitors spend between one to four hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level. Serious enthusiasts might linger longer. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions. It's a fantastic spot for capturing unique vehicle shots! Instagram

While not always advertised, inquire at the front desk about the possibility of guided tours or if staff are available to share insights about the exhibits. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Forney Museum of Transportation does not typically have an on-site restaurant. However, there are many dining options available in the surrounding Denver area. Instagram

It's generally not permitted to consume outside food or beverages within the museum galleries. Check their policy or enjoy a meal before or after your visit. Instagram

The area around the Forney Museum of Transportation offers a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more upscale dining. Exploring nearby neighborhoods will yield many choices. Instagram

Typically, the museum does not have a cafe. Visitors are advised to plan their meals accordingly, perhaps enjoying a snack before or after their visit. Instagram

Yes, Denver has numerous family-friendly restaurants. Look for diners, pizza places, or casual eateries in the vicinity of the museum for a relaxed meal. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Big Boy locomotive, Amelia Earhart's Kissel, and the diverse collection of vintage cars offer incredible photo opportunities. The SAAB exhibit is also a popular subject. Instagram+1

Yes, personal photography is generally permitted inside the Forney Museum of Transportation. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding photography. Instagram

While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or videography may require special permission. Tripods or flash photography might also have limitations. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, as some areas might be dimly lit. A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots of locomotives and details of cars is ideal. Instagram

Absolutely not. Drones are strictly prohibited inside any museum for safety and preservation reasons. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Forney Museum of Transportation is a fantastic indoor option for families. While many exhibits are 'look, don't touch,' the sheer size of vehicles like the Big Boy locomotive is captivating for children. Reddit It's a great way to introduce kids to the history of trains, cars, and other modes of transport in an engaging way. Plan for about 1-2 hours, focusing on the most visually impressive exhibits to keep younger attention spans engaged. Reddit

Tips for families: Bring snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the museum, as food is not allowed inside. The gift shop offers fun transportation-themed souvenirs. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the busiest times and allow children more space to explore. Reddit

🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Collectors

For those passionate about automobiles, the Forney Museum of Transportation is a treasure trove. You'll find an impressive array of vintage cars, from rare classics to iconic models. The SAAB exhibit is a particular draw for fans of the Swedish marque. Instagram The museum's collection spans various eras, offering a comprehensive look at automotive design and engineering advancements. Instagram

Take your time to appreciate the details of each vehicle, from the upholstery to the engine components. The museum's curated displays provide historical context, making it more than just a car show. Serious enthusiasts might spend several hours here, delving into the specifics of each exhibit. Reddit

🚂 Train Buffs & History Aficionados

The Big Boy steam locomotive is the undisputed highlight for train enthusiasts. Standing beside this behemoth offers a profound sense of history and engineering prowess. Reddit The museum's commitment to preserving and displaying these historical giants provides a unique opportunity to connect with the golden age of rail travel. TikTok

Beyond the Big Boy, the museum showcases various other historical transportation artifacts, including carriages and early forms of motorized transport. The accompanying videos and information panels offer deep dives into the mechanics and historical significance of these machines, making it a rich experience for anyone interested in industrial history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Big Boy Locomotive

One of the undeniable stars of the Forney Museum of Transportation is the Big Boy steam locomotive. This colossal machine is one of only eight of its kind ever built, making it a rare and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors often describe feeling 'full body chills' just by standing next to it. Reddit The museum often pairs the locomotive with a video that vividly explains how a steam engine actually works, providing valuable context and appreciation for this engineering marvel. Reddit

Seeing the Big Boy up close offers a tangible connection to a bygone era of rail travel. Its sheer size and intricate mechanics are a testament to human ingenuity. For anyone with an interest in trains or industrial history, this exhibit alone is worth the visit. TikTok

A Journey Through Automotive History

Beyond the impressive locomotives, the Forney Museum of Transportation houses an extensive and diverse collection of vintage automobiles. From classic American muscle cars to elegant European models, the museum showcases the evolution of automotive design and technology. You can find everything from early 20th-century carriages to more modern, yet still historic, vehicles. InstagramReddit

Special exhibits, like the SAAB showcase, highlight specific automotive brands and their contributions to the industry. Instagram The museum also features unique vehicles with fascinating histories, such as Amelia Earhart's first car, a 1923 Kissel Gold Bug, which she used for an epic cross-country road trip. Instagram This collection provides a rich narrative of how personal transportation has shaped society and culture. The variety ensures there's something to spark interest for every visitor.

Family-Friendly Exploration

The Forney Museum of Transportation is a popular destination for families, particularly those with young children who are fascinated by vehicles. While the museum operates on a 'look, don't touch' policy for most exhibits, the sheer scale and variety of vehicles can be captivating for kids. Reddit The Big Boy locomotive is a particular hit, offering a sense of wonder and scale that appeals to all ages. Reddit

It's an excellent indoor activity for a rainy day or a break from the Colorado sun. Parents can point out different types of vehicles, discuss their functions, and engage their children's imaginations. The gift shop also offers a chance for kids to pick out a small souvenir related to their favorite exhibit. Reddit While toddlers might have limited engagement due to the no-touch rule, older children and teens will likely find the historical context and impressive machinery quite engaging. Reddit

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