Photo by Klaus Nahr, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
About Western America Railroad Museum
Visitors explore the museum’s historic setting beside the Harvey House Railroad Depot in Barstow, California, where indoor exhibits showcase railroad artifacts, artwork, timetables, uniforms and tools, while the outdoor yard presents an array of static rolling stock. Highlights include the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe “Beep” #1460, Union Pacific SD40‑2 #9950, ATSF FP45 #95, a 199‑mile‑long caboose collection, a USMC GE 44‑tonner and an Arizona & California Railroad Pullman business car.
At a Glance
Verified daily- Type
- Railroad museum
- Location
- CA
- Rating
- 4.5 ★ 231 Google reviews
Upcoming Events
No ticketed events are currently listed for Western America Railroad Museum. Many heritage operators publish schedules seasonally or run on regular open hours instead of dated events.
Check the operator’s website for current hours and special runs, or subscribe to event alerts and we’ll email you when something is scheduled.
Plan Your Visit
- Parking
- Free lot · paid lot
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance · accessible restroom · accessible parking
- Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMTuesday: ClosedWednesday: ClosedThursday: ClosedFriday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMSaturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMSunday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM
Find the Depot
The Trains
The outdoor yard holds a range of static rolling stock, including the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe "Beep" #1460, Union Pacific SD40-2 #9950, ATSF FP45 #95, a USMC GE 44-tonner, and an Arizona & California Railroad Pullman business car.
History
See full history
The Western America Railroad Museum opens its doors in 2001, establishing a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the railroading heritage of the Pacific Southwest. It occupies the historic Harvey House Railroad Depot on the east side of the former station, integrating the depot’s interior into its exhibition space. Since its inception, the museum remains under the continuous stewardship of the same nonprofit entity, maintaining its mission without recorded changes in ownership or operational interruptions.
Around the Depot
The Western America Railroad Museum sits beside a historic desert depot — a worthwhile California stop on a longer route.
Getting There & Staying Nearby
Optional trip extras from our travel partners.
Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
Compare rentals on Discover Cars →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Tours & Activities Nearby
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
Browse nearby tours →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.