Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum - Image 1
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Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum Portland Maine

4.5
·963 reviews·Portland, United States

Ride vintage trains along the scenic Maine coast, with historical narration and charming waterfront views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

September & October mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum - Image 1

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum Portland Maine

Best Time

September & October mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride vintage trains along the scenic Maine coast, with historical narration and charming waterfront views.

4.5
(963 reviews)

"A delightful family outing with charming conductors and beautiful coastal views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚂 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Coastal Train Ride

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

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

Two-Foot Gauge Railroad History

Museum exhibits

Learn about the unique history of Maine's narrow-gauge railways through informative displays and conductor stories.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Rides

While walk-up tickets are sometimes available, popular themed rides like The Polar Express sell out fast. Booking online ensures your spot and avoids disappointment, especially during peak seasons or holidays. TikTok

Consider First Class for Extra Comfort

Opting for first-class tickets can enhance your experience with included snacks and drinks. It's a small splurge that many visitors find adds to the enjoyment of the scenic coastal ride. Reddit

Best Times

When
September & October mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Holiday season evenings
Why
Magical Polar Express vibes
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays outside peak season
Why
More relaxed experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

All aboard The Polar Express departing from #portlandmaine 🚊🎄✨ . 📍 @Maine Narrow Gauge RR . Visit the North Pole on this not to be missed magical holiday train ride. The experience is complete with a vintage train ride, hot chocolate & cookies, a visit from Santa and a souvineer bell. Cheers, friends! . . . #themainefoodies #mainetok #newengand #mainemoms #holidaysinmaine #fyp
@themainefoodies
30.5K likes • 193.3K views

🚂 Book Polar Express Early

This popular holiday ride sells out quickly! Book tickets well in advance to secure your spot for the magic. TikTok

☕ First Class Perks

Consider first class for included snacks and drinks, making the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable. Reddit

Maine Two Foot Railroads: A 60 Second History. Steam locomotives on two-foot gauge track. Thanks to Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway Museum and Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum for their preservation work!
nickozorak
1.7K likes • 21.4K views
Visiting the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad. 📍49 Thames St, Portland, ME 04101, Stati Uniti Say Goodbye to Boredom No visit to Portland, Maine is complete without a visit to the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum. Portland in Maine. #portland #portlandmaine #maine #mainenarrowgauge #train #gaugerailroad
katia_sweater
12 likes • 1K views

📸 Capture Coastal Views

The ocean views are stunning! Have your camera ready to snap photos of the beautiful Maine coastline. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Break from Walking

A great option to rest your feet while still enjoying Portland's charm and learning local history. Reddit

reddit.com

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. TikTok

☕ First Class Perks

Consider first class for included snacks and drinks, making the ride even more comfortable and enjoyable. Reddit

📸 Capture Coastal Views

The ocean views are stunning! Have your camera ready to snap photos of the beautiful Maine coastline. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Break from Walking

A great option to rest your feet while still enjoying Portland's charm and learning local history. Reddit

🎁 Cute Gift Shop

Don't miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs and essentials for your train ride. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(963 reviews)

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

Scenic coastal views
Friendly and engaging staff
Historical narration

What People Dislike

Limited museum exhibits

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. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available near the station. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during busy periods, to secure a spot. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Yes, absolutely! The Polar Express is an extremely popular holiday event and tickets sell out very quickly. Booking online well in advance is essential. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Restrooms are typically available on the train for passenger convenience during the ride. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Snacks available for purchase or included in first-class tickets typically include items like cookies and other light refreshments. Reddit

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. Reddit

Portland's waterfront and Old Port area offer many family-friendly dining choices, from casual pizza places to seafood restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos from the train windows. The ocean views and the vintage train cars offer great photographic opportunities. Reddit

The Polar Express offers magical photo ops, especially with the festive decorations, Santa, and the train lit up at night. TikTok

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. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb them. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is a fantastic choice for families. The 45-minute ride is perfectly timed for young attention spans, and the coastal scenery is engaging. For an extra special treat, The Polar Express during the holidays is an unforgettable experience with Santa, hot chocolate, and festive cheer. TikTokReddit

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! Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The standard train rides at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad are reasonably priced, offering good value for a unique experience. It's a great way to see a bit of the coast and learn about local history without breaking the bank. Reddit

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. Reddit

❤️ Couples & History Buffs

For couples, a ride on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad can be a charming and relaxing outing. Opting for first-class tickets can add a touch of romance with included drinks and snacks while enjoying the ocean views. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Charm of Two-Foot Gauge Railways

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is a living testament to a unique era of railroading. These two-foot gauge railways were a specialized form of narrow-gauge track, primarily found in Maine, designed for lighter, less expensive construction and operation. They were often used for logging, industrial purposes, and short-distance passenger service. The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum preserves and operates some of the last remaining examples of this fascinating railway history. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

A Family-Friendly Adventure on the Coast

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is a hit with families, especially those with young children. The train ride is the perfect length – long enough to be an adventure, but short enough to keep little ones engaged without getting restless. The coastal views are captivating for all ages, offering glimpses of boats and the vast ocean. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Experiencing Portland's Waterfront History

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a unique perspective on Portland's rich maritime and industrial history. Situated along the waterfront, the ride provides scenic views that have been central to the city's development for centuries. The historical narration shared by the conductor brings these sights to life, detailing the past importance of rail and sea trade. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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