Ohio Railway Museum
Explore Ohio's rich railroad history with vintage streetcar and passenger car rides at this historic museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trolley and speeder rides operate
Ohio Railway Museum
Best Time
Trolley and speeder rides operate

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Ohio's rich railroad history with vintage streetcar and passenger car rides at this historic museum.
"A great afternoon for the young and young at heart, with a great collection of Ohio transportation history.
"🎯 Ride the Trolley
The trolley typically runs on the half-hour. Plan your visit around a ride for a classic experience.
✨ Support Preservation Efforts
Consider donating or volunteering to help maintain this historic site and its collection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Streetcar & Passenger Car Rides
Museum Grounds
Experience a ride on a historic 1937 streetcar or a passenger car, offering a glimpse into past travel.

Speeder Car Rides
Museum Grounds
Take a thrilling ride on a speeder car, a unique vehicle used by railroad workers.

Extensive Collection of Rolling Stock
Museum Grounds
Explore a diverse array of steam and diesel trains, streetcars, and passenger cars.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Ohio Railway Museum
Volunteer and Support Preservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride the Trolley
The trolley typically runs on the half-hour. Plan your visit around a ride for a classic experience.
✨ Support Preservation Efforts
Consider donating or volunteering to help maintain this historic site and its collection.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cars
You can walk through many of the vintage trains and streetcars on display.
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
Train ride schedules can vary, so check the museum's official hours before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride the Trolley
The trolley typically runs on the half-hour. Plan your visit around a ride for a classic experience.
✨ Support Preservation Efforts
Consider donating or volunteering to help maintain this historic site and its collection.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cars
You can walk through many of the vintage trains and streetcars on display.
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
Train ride schedules can vary, so check the museum's official hours before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ohio Railway Museum for its historical significance and engaging train rides, calling it a 'great little museum' and a 'must see.' While some note it might not be the largest, the quality of the collection and the knowledgeable staff make it a worthwhile visit for all ages. The ongoing improvements are also a positive point for many.
"A must see if in Worthington or Columbus area. It doesn't take long to explore. Enjoyed the short trolley ride. $10 admission for adults but worth it knowing what the money is being used for. They are looking for volunteers to help with restoration efforts. If I lived closer, this would be an amazing opportunity to be apart of something special with a significant history."
Hope A
"What a great little museum! One of the oldest rail museums in the US, they have a great collection of Ohio transportation history. The trolley ride was great, and all the staff was able to answer any questions we had about the equipment. You are able to walk through a bunch of the cars and the trains, along with the displays inside the museum. A great afternoon for the young and young at heart."
Derby TheMuffin
"I’ve loved going here since I was a child and I now bring mine here every few years or so. It would be amazing if they had more money but they do well with what they have. It’s nice to see they’ve opened a lot more stuff up in the last couple of years.
The trolley appears to run on the half hour fyi. Its fun and Id recommend it. Get there on the hour, check things out for a half hour, take the ride, then look at whatever you missed or you want to see again.
I believe you can use the same ticket to get multiple rides in a day but not sure there is quite enough to do there to be able to really wait through the hour between trolley rides multiple times."
Aaron B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ohio Railway Museum is located in Worthington, Ohio. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method for visitors coming from Columbus or surrounding areas.
Yes, the museum provides parking for visitors. It's generally ample, especially during off-peak hours, allowing for a convenient arrival.
The closest major airport is John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), located about 20-30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic.
While specific bus routes might exist, many visitors find driving to be the most straightforward option. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The museum is working on improving accessibility, including paving pathways. However, some areas with historic rolling stock might present challenges. It's best to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $10 for adults, which is considered worthwhile by many visitors given the historical significance and the included train ride.
Yes, your admission ticket usually includes a ride on the historic trolley or a speeder car, offering a unique way to experience the museum.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the admission price is generally considered a good value. Check their website or inquire at the entrance for any potential offers.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially for special events or if you're visiting during peak times.
Your ticket typically grants you access to explore the museum's collection of vintage trains and streetcars, as well as a ride on one of their operational historic vehicles.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a wide variety of steam and diesel trains, streetcars, and passenger cars, many of which you can walk through. The museum also offers short, scenic rides on its historic vehicles.
Most visitors find that 1-3 hours is sufficient to explore the collection and enjoy the train rides. It's a great option for a half-day outing.
Yes, the museum operates several historic vehicles, including streetcars and speeder cars, offering rides to visitors on scheduled days.
Absolutely! Kids of all ages are fascinated by trains and streetcars. The hands-on experience of walking through the cars and taking a ride makes it a memorable visit for families.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged. It's a fantastic place to capture unique shots of vintage locomotives and streetcars.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a full-service restaurant. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to dine at nearby restaurants in Worthington.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is usually permitted, especially for a casual visit. However, it's best to consume them in designated areas and keep the historic vehicles clean.
Worthington offers a variety of local eateries, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, providing plenty of options for lunch or dinner after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire museum is a photographer's dream! Focus on the details of the locomotives, the interiors of the streetcars, and the dynamic shots during the train rides.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with museum staff upon arrival to ensure you comply with any regulations regarding photography equipment.
Expect to capture images of vintage steam and diesel engines, beautifully preserved streetcars, passenger cars, and the unique experience of riding these historic vehicles.
Yes, especially if you're seated near a window or have a good vantage point. Capturing the movement and scenery during the rides adds a dynamic element to your photos.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permission. Always respect the historic nature of the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for kids to learn about transportation history in a hands-on way. The museum staff are typically very welcoming and happy to answer curious questions. Consider planning your visit around the operating times of the train rides to maximize the fun.
🚂 Rail Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The ability to explore the interiors of many vehicles and learn about their operational history from knowledgeable staff and volunteers makes this a must-visit. The ongoing restoration projects also provide a fascinating glimpse into the preservation process.
📸 Photographers
Capturing the dynamic shots during the train rides adds another layer to your portfolio. The museum's setting provides a backdrop that evokes a sense of nostalgia and industrial heritage. Remember to check any specific photography guidelines with the museum staff.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Ohio's Rail History
The museum's commitment to preservation is evident in its ongoing restoration efforts. Many of the artifacts are not just static displays but are actively maintained and operated by passionate volunteers. This dedication ensures that future generations can experience the thrill of a bygone era. The museum also highlights the evolution of rail travel, from early streetcars that served urban centers to larger passenger cars that connected communities across the state.
Beyond the tangible collection, the museum serves as an educational hub. It provides insights into the engineering marvels of the past and the social impact of railroads on Ohio's development. Whether you're a seasoned rail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Ohio Railway Museum offers a compelling and interactive journey through a vital part of American history.
Experiencing the Rides: Trolleys and Speeders
For a more unique experience, the museum also offers rides on speeder cars. These small, lightweight vehicles were once essential tools for railroad workers to inspect and maintain tracks. Today, they provide an exhilarating and up-close-to-the-rails adventure for visitors, powered by gasoline engines and offering a different perspective on the museum grounds.
It's important to note that the operating schedules for these rides can vary, often running on specific days and times, particularly on weekends. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum's schedule in advance to ensure they don't miss out on these memorable excursions. The admission ticket typically includes one of these exciting rides, making it a fantastic value.
The Heart of the Museum: Volunteers and Community
Many visitors express a desire to get involved, noting the rewarding nature of contributing to such a significant historical site. The museum actively seeks volunteers for various roles, offering a chance to learn new skills and become part of a community that shares a common interest. This collaborative spirit is a key reason why the museum continues to evolve and improve, with ongoing projects like paving pathways with historic bricks.
This strong community involvement also translates into knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to share their insights. Whether you're asking about a specific locomotive or the history of a streetcar, the team at the Ohio Railway Museum is usually happy to provide detailed answers, making the visit both informative and personal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit