
Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
Experience the power of steam! Ride historic trains and witness the restoration of iconic locomotives at this volunteer-run gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience active steam!

Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
Best Time
Experience active steam!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the power of steam! Ride historic trains and witness the restoration of iconic locomotives at this volunteer-run gem.
"A lot of history and the trains are really old school cool looking being refurbished before your eyes."

🎯 Check Event Schedule First
Operating hours vary; special events are key for rides & seeing engines run!
🎟️ Book Excursion Tickets Early
Popular train rides sell out fast, especially during holidays. Book online in advance!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nickel Plate Road 765
Main locomotive on display
Witness the mighty NKP 765, a beautifully restored Berkshire steam locomotive. A true icon of American railroading!
Historic Excursion Rides
Various routes, check schedule
Experience the thrill of a real steam train ride through scenic landscapes. A memorable adventure for all ages!
Restored Rolling Stock
Display buildings
See a fascinating collection of vintage passenger cars and boxcars undergoing meticulous restoration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Operating Hours & Events
Volunteer Opportunities & Support
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule First
Operating hours vary; special events are key for rides & seeing engines run!
🎟️ Book Excursion Tickets Early
Popular train rides sell out fast, especially during holidays. Book online in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and potentially boarding trains.
📸 Capture the Steam
Bring your camera for incredible shots of the historic locomotives in action.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule First
Operating hours vary; special events are key for rides & seeing engines run!
🎟️ Book Excursion Tickets Early
Popular train rides sell out fast, especially during holidays. Book online in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the grounds and potentially boarding trains.
📸 Capture the Steam
Bring your camera for incredible shots of the historic locomotives in action.
🤝 Support the Volunteers
These dedicated folks keep history alive. Show your appreciation!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the dedication of the volunteers and the impressive restoration work, especially the iconic Nickel Plate Road 765. The excursion train rides are a major highlight, offering a fun and memorable experience for families and couples. Some visitors have noted that operating hours can be inconsistent outside of scheduled events, and initial interactions with staff can sometimes be less than welcoming.
"Was really exited to vist, drove out of my way to stop by on 10/04/2025. Place looked like it was open since all of the buildings were wide open. Walked around the outside for 15 minutes until an older guy showed up and barely ackknowleged me. He then went on to start fussing about how something was thrown in the dumpster without sating another word. I turned around and left."
Matt G
"We took the short little halloween train ride and it was a lot of fun. It was a cool little date day for my husband and myself. Not everyday you get to take a train ride. We got to see their ghost train they were working on (wish we could have seen the inside) but overall a great place to visit."
Laura Bonus
"not really big big but it has a lot of history in the vicinity and the trains and cars are really old school cool looking being refurbished before yer eyes seeing the 2 barnimen bailey cars there was really cool expierence i dont get to expierence any whare else."
fate naboo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The society is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. While specific directions can be found on their website, it's generally accessible by car. Parking is usually available on-site during operating hours and events.
Public transportation options to reach the society's location may be limited. It's best to check local Fort Wayne transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
Yes, Fort Wayne offers a range of hotels and lodging options for visitors. It's advisable to book in advance, especially if visiting during a major event.
Yes, it's possible to visit from Detroit, though it's a drive. The society is distinct from the historic Fort Wayne in Detroit, Michigan.
Excursion trains can depart from various locations depending on the specific event. Some popular boarding points include Pleasant Lake, IN, and Edon, OH, for certain trips. Always confirm the departure station for your chosen ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visiting hours are not fixed and depend heavily on volunteer availability and scheduled events. It's crucial to check their official website or social media for the most current hours and to confirm if they are open for general visitation or only during specific events.
General admission may be free or by donation, but specific events, especially train rides, will have associated ticket costs. Excursion train tickets should be purchased in advance as they often sell out.
Absolutely! For any excursion train rides, booking your tickets well in advance is highly recommended. These popular events, like the Christmas train rides, tend to sell out quickly.
Yes, the society hosts several special events throughout the year, including open houses and themed train rides like the 'Rolling Victory' event or Christmas trains. These are the best times to see their locomotives in operation.
While some buildings might be open during specific hours, it's best to confirm if general access to the grounds is permitted outside of scheduled events. The most comprehensive experience is usually during an organized event.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The star attraction is the Nickel Plate Road 765, a powerful steam locomotive. You can also see a variety of restored passenger cars, boxcars, and other rolling stock, many of which are undergoing refurbishment.
Yes, the society frequently offers excursion train rides on various routes throughout the year. These are a highlight for many visitors and offer a unique way to experience rail history.
The 'Rolling Victory' event is a special occasion where the Nickel Plate Road 765 steam locomotive operates, often for short runs from stations like Pleasant Lake, allowing enthusiasts to witness it in action.
Yes, train rides and seeing the historic locomotives are very engaging for families and children. It offers a fun and educational outing.
Visitors often get to see various pieces of rolling stock in different stages of restoration, offering a glimpse into the meticulous work involved in preserving these historic machines.
📸 📸 Photography
During excursion rides, the train itself provides dynamic photo opportunities. Around the depot and maintenance areas (when accessible), you can capture the locomotives and rolling stock.
Absolutely! The NKP 765 is a prime subject for photographers, especially when it's operational during special events or excursions.
Generally, photography is welcomed, especially during public events. However, always be mindful of safety zones around operating equipment and follow any instructions from staff or volunteers.
You can capture classic steam train shots, detailed close-ups of the locomotive mechanics, and scenic views from the train during excursions.
Yes, events like the Christmas train rides offer unique seasonal photography opportunities, showcasing the trains against winter landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the rides, seeing the massive locomotives and vintage train cars up close is captivating for young minds. It's an educational outing that sparks imagination and provides a tangible connection to history. Remember to check for family-friendly events and book excursion tickets early, as they are very popular.
🚂 Rail Enthusiasts & History Buffs
You'll find a wealth of restored rolling stock and gain insight into the ongoing preservation efforts. The chance to see these machines up close, and potentially even volunteer, offers an unparalleled experience for anyone passionate about rail heritage.
📸 Photographers
Look for opportunities to photograph the details of the locomotives, the vintage passenger cars, and the scenic backdrops during excursion rides. Seasonal events, like the Christmas trains, add unique elements to your portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Nickel Plate Road 765
Seeing the NKP 765 in operation is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Its sheer size, the plume of steam, and the thunderous sound as it pulls a train are a testament to a bygone era of rail travel. The society frequently operates it for special excursions, allowing the public to witness its might firsthand.
The restoration and ongoing maintenance of the 765 are a massive undertaking, relying heavily on the expertise and passion of the society's members. Its presence is a major draw for rail enthusiasts and history buffs alike, making it a must-see for any visitor.
Experiencing Excursion Rides
Popular excursions include themed rides like the Christmas Train, which transforms the journey into a festive winter wonderland, and other seasonal events. These rides often depart from various towns in the region, not just Fort Wayne itself, so it's important to check the specific departure point for your chosen trip.
Booking tickets in advance is absolutely essential, as these rides are highly sought after and frequently sell out. The experience provides a tangible connection to railroad history, allowing passengers to feel the rumble of the tracks and hear the whistle of a real steam engine, creating lasting memories.
Preservation and Volunteerism
Visitors can often see this dedication firsthand, with various pieces of equipment in different stages of repair. The society actively seeks new volunteers, offering a chance for individuals to contribute to keeping this vital piece of American industrial history alive. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or just have a willingness to learn, there's a role for you.
Supporting the society through volunteering or donations is crucial for their continued success. It ensures that future generations can experience the power and history of these magnificent machines.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit