While we have been to Galveston numerous times, we have yet to make the time to stop in at the Railroad Museum at the end of the Strand. Built inside the former Sante Fe Union Station and an adjoining building, this is the largest museum of it’s kind in the southwest. We understand that it’s an insightful visit to part of American history, a chance to crawl around inside an assortment of period rail cars, as well as an informative look at model railroading.
A steam engine displayed in a museum courtyard.
Shearn Moody Plaza entrance located at 25th and the Strand.
There are over 4.5 acres of exhibits both in and out of doors, and rail cars from the late 19th and early 20th centuries for your self-guided touring pleasure. There are steam engines, mail cars, and even a caboose in the yard. Inside you might imagine what waiting for a train was like in the depot, or get a feel for the opulence of period dining cars.
The Harborside Express, an actual if abbreviated train, runs most Saturdays between 11am and 2pm, allowing passengers a ride in an authentic red caboose.
Your parking is free with paid admission in the lot at 2602 Santa Fe Place, across the street form the Museum entrance. Park for the entire day, visit the museum, and stroll the Historic Strand for shopping and dining.
Group rates are available. The museum may also be rented for special events.
The Railroad Museum is open daily from 10am – 5pm in summer, and 9am – 4pm in winter. The only exceptions are for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Mardi Gras.
Tree sculptures across the street from the Museum.
Galveston Railroad Museum
2602 Santa Fe Place
Galveston, Texas 00000
(409) 765-5700
— Ann Cathey
thewanderingtexans 