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Experiences|Museums

There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Museum In Utah And You’ll Want To Visit

Published Sep 12, 2022

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Whether you love trains, have a train-loving child, or simply want a new place to explore in Utah, our adventure today is for you! Located in Tooele is the Tooele Valley Museum and Historic Park, also known to locals as the Tooele Railroad Museum. This fascinating train museum in Utah features all types of locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts from the Tooele Valley Railway. It’s one museum you’ll want to hop aboard and explore!

Located on Broadway Street in Tooele, the Tooele Valley Museum and Historic Park is a must-visit attraction when in this Utah town.

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Tooele Valley Museum and Historical Park/Google

Established in 1983, this museum is housed in the 1909 to 1982 administrative station for the Tooele Valley Railway. Today, this building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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The museum is spread over three acres and there are all types of exhibits and things to see and do at this Utah museum. One of the most popular is to walk around, climb inside, and explore an engine and caboose.

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You can also step inside the museum and learn all about locomotives and the Tooele Valley Railway.

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Tooele Valley Museum and Historical Park/Google

While trains are a main focus of this museum, they aren't the only thing you will learn about during your visit. Unique artifacts at this little-known museum give you a glimpse into Tooele County’s military history.

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Tooele Valley Museum and Historical Park/Google

And there are all types of exhibits that teach you about the mountains, minerals, and other resources in the area.

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And if you can't visit the museum in person, online exhibits are available that will educate both adults and children alike.

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During your visit, bring a picnic lunch and sit at one of the tables in the historic park. Don’t be surprised if you see birds and rabbits who want to join you as well.

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Tooele Valley Museum and Historical Park/Google

You can bring your entire family along as admission to this museum is free. However, if you are planning on bringing large groups, it is recommended to call ahead to ensure there is adequate staff to assist with your group.

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Have you ever been to the Tooele Valley Museum and Historic Park? If so, what did you enjoy most about this little-known museum in Utah? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! And, for more information about this museum, including current hours and exhibits, visit the Tooele Valley Museum's website.

If you are interested in riding a historic train through some of Utah’s most scenic landscapes, climb aboard the Heber Valley Railroad.

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Experiences|Museums

This Unique Museum In Utah Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year

Published Mar 6, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Here in Utah, we know a thing or two about fickle weather. It’s not uncommon to bundle up in snow gear in the morning and dress down in shorts and sandals by dinner time. Fortunately, there are many places in the Beehive State for you to explore no matter what the weather is outside. One of our favorites is the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum in Provo. This unique museum in Utah is perfect for the entire family and you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to explore. You never know what incredible things you will see and learn here.

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Welcome to the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum, also known as the Bean Museum. This natural history museum is located on the Brigham Young University campus in Provo.

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Bean Life Science Museum at BYU/Facebook

Visitor parking can be found north of the museum in the designated parking signs. You will need to register your license plate at the front desk when entering the museum.

As you walk around the Bean Museum, you will find all types of exhibits that teach you more about the planet we live on and make you develop a new appreciation for the many creatures found on it.

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You’ll find exhibits that teach you about freshwater and marine ecosystems, remarkable insects, and the critical role plants play on the earth.

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There are exhibits that look at the unique characteristics of earth, our stewardship to protect and care for the planet, and even threatened, endangered, and extinct life forms.

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Bean Life Science Museum at BYU/Facebook

There is so much to do and see at the Bean Museum that we suggest setting aside several hours to explore.

In addition to the many exhibits you will see, the Bean Museum regularly hosts events such as Family Nights, Trivia Night, and lectures.

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Bean Life Science Museum at BYU/Facebook

The Bean Museum in Provo is open six days a week (closed Sundays). It is free of charge, making it the perfect family day trip destination in Utah County.

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For more information on the Bean Museum in Provo, including dates and times for upcoming events, visit the Brigham Young University website.

Have you been to the Bean Museum in Provo? What is the most unique museum in Utah you’ve explored? What are some of your favorite year-round attractions in the Beehive State? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments. You can also fill out this form and nominate some of your favorites.

If you are looking for another unique museum in Utah to explore, check out the Land Cruiser Heritage Museum in Salt Lake City.

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Experiences|Museums

With 22 Buildings Full Of Antiques, This Small Town Museum In Utah Is A True Hidden Gem

Wallsburg, Utah is home to the Richard W. Erickson Foundation Antique and Classic Power Museum, featuring an extensive collection of vintage vehicles and machinery.

Published May 19, 2023

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Wallsburg, Utah is a small town in Wasatch County with a population of approximately 200 individuals. While small, it is certainly a beautiful place to visit and a destination I highly recommend. Plus, it is also home to one true hidden gem — the Richard W. Erickson Foundation Antique and Classic Power Museum. But, unlike the town, this museum in Utah is anything but small. Here, you’ll find 22 buildings filled with antiques, classic vehicles, and so much more.

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The Antique and Classic Power Museum in Wallsburg is actually one of the best displays of vintage vehicles and engines in Utah. Enthusiasts will love browsing this museum and even those who know little about these incredible machines will find something that captures their attention.

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This museum features 22 buildings that are each filled with incredible machines and antique items. Here, you’ll find a collection of more than 150 motorcycles, some dating back to the 1900s. Believe us, this collection is extremely impressive.

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Richard Erickson Power Show And Museum/Facebook

There are all types of classic vehicles such as a Model T and Model A, vintage trucks, muscle cars, and more.

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Richard Erickson Power Show And Museum/Facebook

You won’t want to miss the antique farm equipment on display at this museum either. With more than 120 tractors and other machinery, you will certainly feel like you've taken a step back in time.

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Richard Erickson Power Show And Museum/Facebook

There are also dozens of antiques and other items at this museum. Give yourself plenty of time to just explore and observe — you'll definitely need it.

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Richard Erickson Power Show And Museum/Facebook

One of our favorite attractions at this museum is the pioneer village where you will find log cabins, a shoe shop, stores, and even a historic church from the 1800s.

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And while the museum is always worthy of a visit, the Richard W. Erickson Foundation hosts several must-visit events throughout the summer months including the Antique and Power Show, TedFest, and the Wasatch Boomerfest.

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Richard Erickson Power Show And Museum/Facebook

To visit the Richard W. Erickson Foundation Antique and Classic Power Museum, you will need to schedule a tour in advance by emailing [email protected]. You can also explore and enjoy all of the attractions during any of the museum's annual events.

Have you ever been to the Antique and Classic Power Museum in Wallsburg, Utah? What were some of your favorite attractions at this museum? Let us know in the comments! You can also learn more and purchase tickets to upcoming events on the official Richard W. Erickson Foundation Antique and Classic Power Museum website. Make sure to follow the museum’s Facebook page for event news and updates as well.

And, did you know that Wallsburg is considered one of the best small towns in Utah to enjoy some peace and quiet? Check out the other charming places in the Beehive State that made the list.

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