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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Georgia State Railroad Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the oldest antebellum railroad repair facility in the U.S., with historic railcars and thrilling train rides.
"A cool place with a lot of history, highly recommended for train lovers and families!"
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Explore Historic Railcars
Exhibition Area
Step inside and discover a collection of vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and rolling stock.

Steam Locomotive Cab
223 Steam Locomotive
Get a close-up look at the intricate controls of a powerful steam engine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors & Weather
Timing is Key for Train Rides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
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.
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.
Savannah is a very walkable city, especially in the historic district. For longer distances, consider the DOT Express Shuttle or ride-sharing services.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Members of the Coastal Heritage Society often receive free admission. Look out for potential discounts for seniors, military personnel, or AAA members.
Your admission usually covers exploring the historic Roundhouse, viewing the collection of locomotives and railcars, and a scenic train ride around the museum grounds.
🎫 🚂 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.
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.
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.
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.
Combine exploring the exhibits with taking the train ride and joining a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the site's rich history.
📸 📸 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.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the train cars, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific museum guidelines.
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.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warmer atmosphere.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider calling ahead to confirm train ride schedules, as these are a major highlight for younger visitors. The museum's grounds are also dog-friendly for leashed pets, which can be a great perk for families traveling with their furry companions.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to take a train ride on a functional locomotive, a truly authentic experience. 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. The museum offers a deep dive into the industrial heritage of Georgia and the broader American railway system.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Hilton Head
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. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Antebellum Rail History
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.
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. 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.
Experiencing the Thrill of the Rails
Social media content frequently highlights the excitement of these train rides, with creators sharing snippets of the experience. 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.
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. This ensures you don't miss out on this quintessential railroad museum experience.
A Family-Friendly Savannah Adventure
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. The outdoor setting means there's plenty of space to explore, and the interactive nature of the exhibits keeps younger visitors entertained.
Tips from families often include wearing comfortable shoes and dressing for the weather, as much of the exploration happens outdoors. The dog-friendly policy on the grounds is also a bonus for families traveling with pets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit