Georgia State Railroad Museum - Train station. Shot on Minolta SRT-101.
1 / 10

Georgia State Railroad Museum

4.5
·2k reviews·Savannah, United States

Explore the oldest antebellum railroad repair facility in the U.S., with historic railcars and thrilling train rides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Georgia State Railroad Museum - Train station. Shot on Minolta SRT-101.

Georgia State Railroad Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the oldest antebellum railroad repair facility in the U.S., with historic railcars and thrilling train rides.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A cool place with a lot of history, highly recommended for train lovers and families!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking a lot on uneven surfaces. Good footwear is essential for exploring the grounds! :athletic_shoe:

Check Train Ride Schedule

Train rides are a highlight! Call ahead or check online for exact times to avoid disappointment. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Train Rides

Historic Train Rides

Museum Grounds

Experience the thrill of a ride on a functional locomotive, a truly immersive journey into railroad history.

The Antebellum Roundhouse

The Antebellum Roundhouse

Main Building

Explore the oldest and most complete antebellum railroad repair facility in the U.S., a marvel of industrial history.

Explore Historic Railcars

Explore Historic Railcars

Exhibition Area

Step inside and discover a collection of vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and rolling stock.

Steam Locomotive Cab

Steam Locomotive Cab

223 Steam Locomotive

Get a close-up look at the intricate controls of a powerful steam engine.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors & Weather

Much of the Georgia State Railroad Museum is outdoors, so dress for Savannah's climate. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the grounds and historic railcars. Check the weather forecast before you go to ensure a pleasant visit.

Timing is Key for Train Rides

Train rides are a highlight, but schedules can vary. It's wise to call ahead or check the museum's calendar to confirm ride times, especially if this is a must-do for your visit. Arriving earlier in the day can also help avoid crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Train rides are usually running
Crowd
Medium
When
Cooler Months (Fall/Winter)
Why
Pleasant outdoor experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Georgia State Railroad Museum 🚂 Took my kids to the train museum after a trip to the Children's Museum last week. The two museums are right next to each other, making it easy to visit both. This museum is on the smaller side, but has lots to keep your train enthusiast entertained. My family has a membership to the Coastal Heritage Society which gets us entrance into all of their museums ...
the.savannah.lady
60 likes • 1.4K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking a lot on uneven surfaces. Good footwear is essential for exploring the grounds! :athletic_shoe:

Check Train Ride Schedule

Train rides are a highlight! Call ahead or check online for exact times to avoid disappointment. :ticket:

Take a train ride with us! Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah will offer short train rides this weekend Jan. 17-20. Train rides are at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, & 3pm. Schedule is subject to change. Please call ahead: 912.651.6823. #savannah #coastalheritagesociety #thingstodoinsavannah #whattodoinsavannah
coastal_heritage_society
24 likes • 855 views
The Georgia State Railroad Museum train ride in 60 seconds! Check out our calendar to see when you can hop on board: http://bit.ly/4kWrZys #visitsavannah #georgiahistory #railroadmusuem #thingstodoinsavannah
savannahchildrensmuseum
5 likes • 293 views

Dog-Friendly Exploration

Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds, but not inside cars. Great for furry friends! :dog:

Combine with Children's Museum

Conveniently located next door, perfect for a family day out with varied interests. :children_crossing:

Savannah Children’s Museum and Georgia State Railroad Museum 📍Address: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401 ⏰ Hours: Open Monday through Saturday  from 9:00am to 2:00pm (the railroad museum stays open until 4pm). CLOSED SUNDAYS. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.   📞 Phone: 912-651-6825 💵Cost:Children’s museum $10 per person (ages 18mos. and up) Railroad museum is $15 per ...
museumswithkids
6 likes • 299 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking a lot on uneven surfaces. Good footwear is essential for exploring the grounds! :athletic_shoe:

Check Train Ride Schedule

Train rides are a highlight! Call ahead or check online for exact times to avoid disappointment. :ticket:

Dog-Friendly Exploration

Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds, but not inside cars. Great for furry friends! :dog:

Combine with Children's Museum

Conveniently located next door, perfect for a family day out with varied interests. :children_crossing:

Dress for the Weather

Much of the museum is outdoors, so be prepared for heat, sun, or rain. :umbrella:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Georgia State Railroad Museum for its rich history, well-preserved exhibits, and the engaging train rides. Staff are often noted as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience. However, some find the museum smaller than expected and note that much of the experience is outdoors, which can be challenging in extreme weather.

"I enjoyed learning about the history of the railroad system, and appreciated how well everything has been preserved over the years. I came at a time when there was no guided tours available, so I did not get the full story out of all of the exhibits. Also, most of this museum is outdoors which was an issue during my visit when it was extremely hot."

Anon Ymous

"The Georgia State railroad museum is a must-visit if you are in Savannah and have any interest in historical machinery and trains. Mason and the crew here was interesting and shared a significant amount of historical information about the site and the trains. Admission includes the opportunity to ride on a rail car pulled by a functional diesel electric locomotive, including two trips on the roundabout. Well done, visit here, highly recommended."

Luke Thompson

"What a cool place with a lot of history! Everyone on staff was friendly and knowledgeable. You will be walking around outside, so wear good shoes and dress for the weather. Make sure to take the train ride and tour the passenger cars while there to learn even more about railroad history."

Caitlin Carter

What People Like

Historic Roundhouse
Engaging train rides
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Outdoor exposure
Smaller than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 655 Louisville Road, Savannah, GA 31401. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available. Many visitors also find it convenient to combine a visit with the nearby Savannah Children's Museum. Instagram+1

Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Reddit

Savannah has a public bus system, and checking their routes might offer an option. However, many visitors opt for driving or ride-sharing services due to the museum's location. Reddit

Absolutely! It's right next to the Savannah Children's Museum and part of the Tricentennial Park complex, making it easy to plan a day of exploration. Instagram+1

Savannah is a very walkable city, especially in the historic district. For longer distances, consider the DOT Express Shuttle or ride-sharing services. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum is typically open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Always check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours. Instagram

Admission typically includes access to the grounds, exhibits, and a train ride. Pricing can vary, and it's best to check the official Coastal Heritage Society website for the most up-to-date ticket information. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to guarantee your entry and potentially save time. Reddit

Members of the Coastal Heritage Society often receive free admission. Look out for potential discounts for seniors, military personnel, or AAA members. Instagram

Your admission usually covers exploring the historic Roundhouse, viewing the collection of locomotives and railcars, and a scenic train ride around the museum grounds. Reddit

🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic Roundhouse, see a variety of locomotives and railcars, learn about railroad history, and take a memorable train ride. There are also blacksmith and machine shops to view. InstagramReddit

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides like Jan can bring the history of the site and its trains to life. Reddit

Absolutely! A highlight of the visit is the opportunity to ride on a rail car pulled by a functional locomotive. Check the schedule for ride times. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's a fantastic place for kids, especially those interested in trains. Exploring real train cars and taking a ride is a big hit with families. Instagram+1

Combine exploring the exhibits with taking the train ride and joining a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the site's rich history. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the historic Roundhouse, the various locomotives and railcars, and the train rides in action. The cab of the 223 Steam Locomotive is also a unique photo spot. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is allowed inside the train cars, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific museum guidelines. Instagram

While most areas are open for photography, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding professional shoots or drone usage. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warmer atmosphere. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the Roundhouse and details of the trains. A prime lens can be useful for low-light interiors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Georgia State Railroad Museum is a hit with families! Kids will love exploring the massive historic train cars and, most importantly, taking a train ride around the grounds. Instagram+1 It's conveniently located right next to the Savannah Children's Museum, making it easy to combine for a full day of fun. Instagram Remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as much of the museum is outdoors. Reddit

Consider calling ahead to confirm train ride schedules, as these are a major highlight for younger visitors. Instagram The museum's grounds are also dog-friendly for leashed pets, which can be a great perk for families traveling with their furry companions. Instagram

🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those with a passion for railroad history, the Georgia State Railroad Museum is a must-visit. You'll be immersed in the oldest and most complete antebellum railroad manufacturing and repair facility in the U.S., the historic Roundhouse. Instagram Explore a diverse collection of vintage locomotives and railcars, and delve into the engineering marvels of the past. Instagram

Don't miss the opportunity to take a train ride on a functional locomotive, a truly authentic experience. Reddit Joining a guided tour is highly recommended, as knowledgeable docents can provide in-depth historical context and fascinating anecdotes that bring the exhibits to life. Reddit The museum offers a deep dive into the industrial heritage of Georgia and the broader American railway system.

🚶 Day-Trippers from Hilton Head

Looking for a fun and educational day trip from Hilton Head? The Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah is an excellent choice! It offers a unique blend of history and entertainment that's perfect for a family outing. Instagram The train rides are a particular highlight for kids, and exploring the impressive collection of historic railcars provides plenty of 'wow' moments. Instagram

The museum's location in Savannah makes it an easy drive, and it can be combined with other nearby attractions like the Savannah Children's Museum for a full day of exploration. Instagram Plan for a few hours to comfortably see everything, and remember to check the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the outdoor exhibits. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Antebellum Rail History

The Georgia State Railroad Museum is a treasure trove of American industrial history, particularly its antebellum roots. The centerpiece is the Roundhouse, built starting in 1855. This structure served as the repair shop for the Central of Georgia Railroad and stands today as the oldest and most complete antebellum railroad manufacturing and repair facility still in existence in the United States. Thirteen of its original structures remain, offering a tangible connection to the past. Instagram

Visitors can explore this historic complex and learn about the evolution of rail technology. The museum houses a significant collection of historic railcars and rolling stock, including locomotives and passenger cars. These exhibits provide a fascinating look at the machinery that powered America's expansion and commerce. Instagram

Real travelers emphasize the value of guided tours to truly appreciate the depth of history here. Guides like Jan are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the complex 'come alive' with stories of its past. Reddit This immersive experience goes beyond just looking at static displays, offering a narrative that connects visitors to the people and events that shaped this landmark. Reddit

Experiencing the Thrill of the Rails

One of the most anticipated aspects of visiting the Georgia State Railroad Museum is the opportunity to ride a train. These aren't just stationary exhibits; you can hop aboard a railcar pulled by a functional diesel-electric locomotive or even a steam engine. InstagramReddit+1 The rides typically circle the museum grounds, offering a unique perspective of the historic Roundhouse and the surrounding area. Instagram

Social media content frequently highlights the excitement of these train rides, with creators sharing snippets of the experience. Instagram+1 It's a chance to feel the rumble of the engine and imagine what travel was like in a bygone era. For many, especially families with children, this is the absolute highlight of their visit. Instagram

It's important to note that train ride schedules can vary, and it's highly recommended to call ahead or check the museum's calendar to confirm times. Instagram This ensures you don't miss out on this quintessential railroad museum experience. Reddit

A Family-Friendly Savannah Adventure

The Georgia State Railroad Museum is a fantastic destination for families visiting Savannah. Its proximity to the Savannah Children's Museum makes it incredibly convenient to plan a dual-attraction day. Instagram Kids are often captivated by the sheer size of the real train cars and locomotives, and the chance to ride a train is a major draw. Instagram+1

Parents appreciate that the museum offers a blend of fun and education. It's a place where children can learn about history and engineering in an engaging, hands-on environment. Instagram The outdoor setting means there's plenty of space to explore, and the interactive nature of the exhibits keeps younger visitors entertained. Instagram

Tips from families often include wearing comfortable shoes and dressing for the weather, as much of the exploration happens outdoors. Reddit The dog-friendly policy on the grounds is also a bonus for families traveling with pets. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2