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RailsWest Railroad Museum

Council Bluffs, IA

Museum
4 (4 reviews)

Where are we going?

Address: 1512 S Main St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503, USA How do we get there? Number: 712-323-5182
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About this activity

All aboard kids, we're off to learn all about the rich railroad history of Southwest Iowa at the RailsWest Railroad Museum!

What began life as the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Passenger Depot back in 1899, today operates as a museum and model railroad display, where the whole family can visit and learn about the construction of the transcontinental railroad, and the major role it played in the development of the region!

Grab those conductor hats, because this is a rail adventure through history in Iowa! Kids can learn about the beginnings of the railroad, and how the last train pulled out of the depot in 1970.

You can really feel part of history throughout the museum, located in the former waiting rooms. Did you know that there was a separate waiting room for women and one for men?

There are plenty of railroad artifacts to see, and exhibits to explore, and you can even check out the former ticket office too.

The displays feature a host of historic items and information, with displays of dining car silverware, porters' uniforms, a telegraph office and even ticket stubs - it's fun to use those imaginations and think who were those people that used those tickets, and where were they going?

Also at the RailsWest Railroad Museum you can explore the rise and fall of the railroads and so much more on this day of discovery fun for the whole family.

Choo choo - the train for learning, discovery and locomotive fun is about to depart for the RailsWest Railroad Museum - let's GO!

Activity location

How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

$7

Hilton

Children

$5 (Ages 6 to 12)

Hilton

Discount

$6 Seniors and AAA Members

Hilton

Free Under

5 years

Hilton

Last Updates

2022

RailsWest Railroad Museum FAQ’s

They sometimes shut for private events so check online before you visit

There is a gift shop filled with railroad related gifts and souvenirs, so bring that pocket money along!

They happily take group tours, just call and arrange in advance! They have a number of lesson plans which are age appropriate, and great for learning (they can even operate a real model train!)

Give them a call to ask about the accessibility, they will happily answer any questions!

They run paranormal investigations too!

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