Just moments before entering the parking lot of The Southeastern Railway Museum crossing signals went off and the gates went down as we were greeted by a passing Diesel hauling cargo. I love that this museum is next to a working line. It got everyone revved up to explore the railway museum. As soon as the boys got out of the car their eyes lit up with all the excitement of trains surrounding them.
I was extremely astonished by this museum; it’s more like an interactive transportation museum. I love that there are so many trains and other transportation vehicles from different time periods that you can climb aboard and explore. I was even more surprised that you can ride on a resorted caboose pulled by an antique diesel locomotive.
We started our adventure by climbing aboard the “General” a massive 1919 Baldwin Locomotive. My boys enjoyed stepping up into the engine and sounding its mighty horn.
Than we enjoyed a ride on the restored caboose. The boys loved climbing up into the bunk section for the train ride. It was the best place to sit for awesome views of the tour around the yard.
Next we ventured off to the Main Exhibit Hall where there are engines and passenger cars to walk through and explore. It felt like stepping back in time as you walk through the displays that feature their original design and décor.
As you walk to the back side of the building make sure you check out restored antique fire engines. There is also a back room to view with antique items and even a model train display that is being renovated and will be back in operation soon!
We finished off the day with trekking through the Rolling Stock Exhibit with numerous trains, buses, and memorabilia. The passenger bus collection was pretty impressive; it was pretty cool to see the evolution of transportation.
A few tips for parents. This museum is wheel chair accessible and easy to maneuver a stroller though as well. There are plenty of shaded areas and pavilions for enjoying a snack or packing a lunch. Also, be sure to stop in the gift shop where a little train table is located. If your little engineers are like mine they will want to stay and play a while. Also, the museum is working on restoring a narrow gage engine for children train rides. I can’t wait to come back and see all that has been added next year.
Thank you Southeastern Railway for inviting my little engineers on a traintastic adventure.
Information:
3595 Buford Hwy
Duluth, GA 30096
Leave a Reply