Kentucky Railway Museum
Step back in time with historic train rides and explore vintage locomotives at the Kentucky Railway Museum in New Haven, KY.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trains often run on Saturdays.
Kentucky Railway Museum
Best Time
Trains often run on Saturdays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time with historic train rides and explore vintage locomotives at the Kentucky Railway Museum in New Haven, KY.
"The optional train ride is worth the small cost and is very enlightening with a train conductor providing many railroad facts."
Book Day Out With Thomas Early
Tickets for this popular kids' event sell out fast! Use code SUMMER4 for discounts.
Check Train Schedules
Not all trains run daily; confirm operating days on their website.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Train Rides
New Haven, KY
Experience vintage vibes and scenic views on an unforgettable railway adventure. A must-do for train enthusiasts!

Day Out With Thomas
New Haven, KY
A magical event for kids featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, bubble activities, and lasting family memories.

Outdoor Train Yard
New Haven, KY
Explore a fascinating outdoor collection of historic train cars left to naturally rust and deteriorate.

Indoor Museum Exhibits
New Haven, KY
Discover model trains, interactive games, and a wealth of historic railroad equipment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Train Rides in Advance
Check Train Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Day Out With Thomas Early
Tickets for this popular kids' event sell out fast! Use code SUMMER4 for discounts.
Check Train Schedules
Not all trains run daily; confirm operating days on their website.
Embrace the Outdoor Yard
Wander through the unique outdoor collection of rusting train cars.
Kid-Friendly Museum
Simple train toys and chalkboards make the indoor museum engaging for little ones.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Day Out With Thomas Early
Tickets for this popular kids' event sell out fast! Use code SUMMER4 for discounts.
Check Train Schedules
Not all trains run daily; confirm operating days on their website.
Embrace the Outdoor Yard
Wander through the unique outdoor collection of rusting train cars.
Kid-Friendly Museum
Simple train toys and chalkboards make the indoor museum engaging for little ones.
Conductor's Facts
Enjoy the train ride with a conductor sharing railroad facts and Q&A.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kentucky Railway Museum for its engaging train rides, especially the special seasonal events like the Christmas train, and the unique outdoor collection of rusting train cars. The staff is frequently noted as friendly and courteous, contributing to a positive experience. While some find the indoor museum's content extensive, others might feel the train ride itself doesn't go 'somewhere' specific, but the overall experience is relaxing and worthwhile.
"The museum has interesting items, the best and most unique part was walking outside along the tracks to see all the train cars left outside to naturally rust and deteriorate!"
Lisa Skalecki
"There is a fair amount of historic railroad equipment in the museum.
The optional train ride is worth the small cost and is very enlightening with a train conductor providing many railroad facts. The conductor also provides a question and answer session while the train is underway.
The museum offers many different train rides, with some of them offering dining, seasonal rides such as a Christmas train with Santa Claus, and other specialty rides. All the different rides and occasions can be found on the Kentucky Railroad Museum website."
Lyle McDonald
"We did Day Out With Thomas at The railway museum. Really cute set up for younger kids."
Summer Treadway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kentucky Railway Museum is located in New Haven, KY. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to reach it. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby attractions like Abraham Lincoln's childhood home.
Yes, parking is generally available at the museum. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during popular events, to secure a good spot.
New Haven, KY is accessible via major highways. It's recommended to use a GPS or mapping service for the most accurate and up-to-date driving directions from your starting point.
Yes, the Kentucky Railway Museum is a feasible day trip from Louisville, KY. The drive typically takes around an hour, making it a convenient option for a short getaway.
Visitors often pair a trip to the Kentucky Railway Museum with visits to Abraham Lincoln's birthplace and childhood home, offering a broader historical experience in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the specific train ride or event. Special events like 'Day Out With Thomas' or the 'Polar Express' will have different pricing than standard train rides. It's best to check the official Kentucky Railway Museum website for current pricing and booking.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Kentucky Railway Museum website. For popular events, booking in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out.
Yes, discounts are sometimes offered, especially for special events. For example, a 'SUMMER4' code was available for 'Day Out With Thomas' rides. Keep an eye on their social media and website for promotions.
Standard train rides offer a scenic journey with a conductor providing facts and a Q&A session. Special event rides, like the Christmas train, often include activities, hot chocolate, cookies, and appearances by characters like Santa Claus.
Yes, you can explore the indoor museum exhibits and the outdoor train yard even if you don't take a train ride. However, some visitors note that the train ride is worth the small cost.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic train cars in the indoor museum and outdoor yard, take scenic train rides, and participate in special events like 'Day Out With Thomas' and seasonal holiday trains.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly, with special events like 'Day Out With Thomas' designed specifically for kids. The indoor museum also features kid-friendly exhibits.
This popular event features Thomas the Tank Engine, offering a real train ride experience for children. It often includes bubble activities and other fun engagements for families.
Yes, you can often walk onto and look around the train cars, especially if you visit on a day when the trains are not running their scheduled rides.
The museum houses historic railroad equipment and offers insights into railroad history. Fun facts about time zones and watchmakers have been shared by visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining options might vary, some special train rides, like the Christmas train, include refreshments such as hot chocolate and cookies. It's advisable to check the details for the specific event you plan to attend.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally a good idea, especially if you have children with specific dietary needs or preferences. Check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages.
New Haven, KY is a small town, so dining options might be limited. It's recommended to research local eateries in New Haven or consider dining in a larger nearby town before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the historic locomotives, the unique outdoor train yard with rusting cars, and the joy on children's faces during events like 'Day Out With Thomas'.
Yes, photography is encouraged! You can get up close to many of the historic train engines and cars, both indoors and outdoors, to capture their details.
Special events like the 'Santa Express' or 'Day Out With Thomas' offer unique photo opportunities with themed decorations and characters.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Consider the time of day for your visit to maximize photo potential.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and museum staff. Professional photography might require special arrangements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Book tickets for popular events like 'Day Out With Thomas' and seasonal rides (like the Santa Express) well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Always check the train schedules before your visit, as not all rides operate daily.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The scenic train rides are a must, providing a chance to experience vintage rail travel. Conductors often share fascinating facts and historical context, making the journey both enjoyable and educational. Keep an eye out for ongoing preservation efforts, like the work on the L&N 152 locomotive, which highlights the dedication to maintaining these pieces of history.
📸 Photographers
Special events like the 'Santa Express' or 'Day Out With Thomas' present dynamic scenes filled with joy and color, perfect for capturing candid moments. Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most flattering natural light to enhance your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Trains
Inside, the museum offers a more curated experience with model trains, interactive games, and exhibits detailing the evolution of Kentucky's railroads. The L&N 152 locomotive is a notable piece, with recent work involving wheel removal from its axle, showcasing ongoing preservation efforts.
These exhibits provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the engineering and cultural significance of railways in shaping the region. The 'Train of Life' exhibit offers a more philosophical perspective on journeys and connections.
The Magic of Train Rides
Beyond the regular rides, the museum hosts a variety of specialty train experiences. These include seasonal events like the 'Polar Express' and 'Santa Express', which are incredibly popular with families and create magical holiday memories. Other unique offerings might include 'mystery tours,' adding an element of surprise to the railway adventure.
For families, the 'Day Out With Thomas' event is a massive hit, bringing the beloved children's character to life. These themed rides are designed to be highly engaging for younger visitors, often featuring bubble activities and character interactions. Booking these popular rides in advance is crucial due to high demand.
Family Fun and Kid-Friendly Activities
Beyond specific events, the general atmosphere of the museum and the train rides are inherently engaging for kids. The opportunity to walk on the trains and explore the outdoor yard sparks imagination. The conductors' engaging storytelling and Q&A sessions also help keep children captivated during the rides.
When planning a visit with kids, it's wise to check the train schedules as not all rides operate daily. Booking tickets for popular events well in advance is also essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit