Great Plains Transportation Museum
Explore Wichita's rail heritage with historic locomotives, cabooses, and engaging indoor exhibits. Climb aboard and step back in time!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Great Plains Transportation Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Wichita's rail heritage with historic locomotives, cabooses, and engaging indoor exhibits. Climb aboard and step back in time!
"This little museum is heavily underrated and deserves more attention. "
🤝 Chat with Volunteers
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about rail history. Ask them anything!
📸 Capture the Contrast
The juxtaposition of old and new trains is a photographer's dream.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Locomotives & Rail Cars
Outdoor exhibits
Step inside historic engines and cabooses, offering a tangible connection to rail history.
Indoor Exhibits & Memorabilia
Museum building
Discover detailed miniature displays and artifacts that chronicle Kansas rail heritage.
Active BNSF Mainline Views
Adjacent to museum
Witness modern trains on a busy BNSF line, creating a striking contrast with the vintage iron.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Train Enthusiasts
Accessibility and Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Chat with Volunteers
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about rail history. Ask them anything! +1
📸 Capture the Contrast
The juxtaposition of old and new trains is a photographer's dream.
💰 Affordable Admission
Tickets are reasonably priced, making it a great value for history buffs.
🚶♀️ Explore On Foot
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the outdoor exhibits and climb aboard trains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Chat with Volunteers
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about rail history. Ask them anything! +1
📸 Capture the Contrast
The juxtaposition of old and new trains is a photographer's dream.
💰 Affordable Admission
Tickets are reasonably priced, making it a great value for history buffs.
🚶♀️ Explore On Foot
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the outdoor exhibits and climb aboard trains.
💖 Support Preservation
Donations are crucial for restoring and maintaining these historic pieces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Great Plains Transportation Museum for its well-maintained collection and the exceptional knowledge of its volunteer staff. The opportunity to explore the interiors of vintage trains is a major highlight, offering an immersive historical experience. While not the largest museum, its affordability and the engaging nature of the exhibits make it a highly recommended stop for train enthusiasts and families alike.
"The museum isn't very big, but very well done. The staff was exceptional, most friendly, but not over the top if you know what I mean. Lots of great information on Kansas rail history and artifacts in the well organized indoor section of the museum. Beautiful railroad artwork was everywhere. The outside collection is parallel to a busy BNSF mainline. Separated by fence, so no fear of little ones getting in danger. The mainline gives interesting contrast to the vintage iron at the museum. There was much preservation activity going on at the museum. Painting and other work on the rolling stock. It was clean and well organized. One could enter some of the equipment on display. There were also a couple of neat old trucks outside. With what I observed during my visit, the Central Plains Transportation Museum appears to be doing a fine job of preserving Ks rail history. I, for one, am excited to see this organization grow and what they will accomplish in the coming years."
Jay Long
"I have been a Wichita resident all my life (a crisp 24 years now) and I'd always seen this museum, ATSF 3768 and the Santa Fe diesel on the Douglas St. Bridge. I'd only been to this museum once in memory.
Recently, I went back this last week.
The museum has a host of different engines and cars in display on the viaduct. Almost every engine has an open cab to explore. There's also an array of rail equipment to look over and learn about.
The interior of the museum has a miniature display of Wichita in the late 1800's as well as diagrams and artifacts from other railroads.
What I can say is this little museum is heavily underrated and deserves more attention.
Tickets are only 8 dollars for adults.
It is nice to see younger faces volunteering to run the place. We can't let this place fall. It is one of the forgotten icons of Wichita. Please donate to help restore Santa Fe #93."
Keaton Henke
"Neat train museum for those who are already interested in trains.
The volunteer staff is very outgoing and knowledgeable. The facilities are in good repair.
It’s possible to climb on or up into several engines and cabooses - which is neat!
There are stairs required to access the roof level decking/bridge with machines. It’s not stroller friendly, and I didn’t notice an elevator in the historic old building. It might be possible to access the roof/bridge area from across the street parking garage - but I’m not sure.
There’s some souvenirs and a free train magazine on your way out."
Bethany Haid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Downtown Wichita, easily accessible by car. Parking is available nearby. It's situated across from the old Union Station on Douglas Avenue.
While the indoor exhibits are generally accessible, the outdoor exhibits and bridge area may involve stairs, making it less stroller-friendly.
Information on public transport routes to the museum can be found on local Wichita transit websites. It's a central location within the city.
Yes, there is parking available near the museum. It's recommended to check for specific lot details upon arrival.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including climbing into some of the trains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $8 for adults, making it an affordable option for exploring rail history.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the museum's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially if planning to visit during special events.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, inquire at the ticket counter about potential group rates or special offers.
Yes, many of the locomotives and rail cars allow visitors to enter and explore their interiors, offering a unique hands-on experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and encouraged! The vintage trains and exhibits make for fantastic photo opportunities.
The outdoor exhibits with the locomotives and cabooses are prime spots. The contrast with the active BNSF mainline also offers unique shots.
Drone usage may be restricted. It's essential to check with museum staff or local regulations before flying a drone on the premises. +1
For commercial or fashion photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the museum in advance to arrange permissions and discuss any specific guidelines.
Many visitors use DSLRs and mirrorless cameras for detailed shots, while others capture the grandeur with smartphones. Drone footage is also popular.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You'll find a collection of historic locomotives, rail cars, cabooses, and memorabilia detailing the rich history of rail transportation in the Great Plains. +1
Absolutely! Many of the engines and cars are open for exploration, allowing you to step into the past and imagine life on the rails.
While not explicitly interactive in a digital sense, climbing aboard the trains and exploring the miniature displays offers engaging experiences for children.
ATSF 93 is a significant locomotive undergoing restoration, and its movement to Kansas City for this process was a notable event for rail enthusiasts.
The museum is adjacent to an active BNSF mainline, offering a dynamic view of modern freight trains passing by, providing a fascinating contrast to the museum's collection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum offers a lot for younger visitors, be mindful that some areas, particularly the elevated bridge sections, involve stairs and might not be ideal for strollers. However, the main outdoor exhibits and the indoor displays with miniature trains provide plenty of engaging content for children to enjoy. The knowledgeable volunteers also make the visit more interactive and fun.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Whether you're using a DSLR for detailed shots or a smartphone to capture the grandeur, the museum offers plenty of compelling subjects. Consider visiting during different times of day to play with lighting, and don't miss the chance to photograph the trains from various angles.
🚂 Dedicated Railfans
Pay special attention to the ongoing restoration projects, like that of ATSF 93, which highlight the museum's dedication to preserving rail heritage. The knowledgeable volunteers are a key resource, often sharing detailed operational histories and personal anecdotes that enrich the experience for true enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Kansas Rail History
Beyond the impressive collection of trains, the museum offers a glimpse into the broader impact of railroads on community development and the economy. Indoor exhibits feature detailed miniature displays of Wichita in its early days, alongside artifacts and diagrams that illuminate the operational and social history of various railroad companies. This blend of tangible artifacts and historical context provides a comprehensive understanding of rail's role in shaping the American West.
Many visitors highlight the exceptional knowledge and friendliness of the volunteer staff. These individuals often have personal connections to railroading and are eager to share their insights, making the museum visit an engaging and educational experience. Their passion for preserving this history is palpable and contributes significantly to the museum's appeal.
Experiencing the Trains Up Close
The outdoor display area is particularly impressive, featuring a diverse range of rolling stock. You can walk around, peer into the mechanics, and even step inside many of the engines and cabooses. This immersive experience is a major draw for train enthusiasts of all ages, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era of transportation.
While the accessibility of the outdoor exhibits is a major plus, it's worth noting that some areas, like the bridge decking, involve stairs. However, the ability to explore the interiors of so many trains makes the Great Plains Transportation Museum a standout destination for anyone fascinated by the golden age of railroading.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit