If you or someone you know loves trains, these are the spots that you must visit in Portland. Each place has its own unique elements that make it so memorable and worth a visit. Combine them for a busy weekend of adventure, or work on the list over time for the full and more relaxed picture of trains and their role in the development of the Pacific Northwest.

1. Oregon Pacific Railroad

This family-owned and operated train company provides passenger trips for train lovers every Saturday through mid-November for $10 for adults and $5 for children. Boarding at and traveling between Oaks Park and the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, this is a fun trip to stoke the fire of any train lover.

2. Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Whether you combine the trip with a ride on the Oregon Pacific Railroad or not, this is a great place to brush up on train history. The railway museum features three steam locomotives, as well as several other passenger and freight cars and locomotives. The museum is free and open from 1 pm to 5 pm Thursday through Sunday.

3. Washington and Park Zoo Railway

Visit the 2,000+ animals at the zoo and take a trip on this whimsical train for a day of adventure. The 6-minute loop takes you to the edge of the zoo and back. Kids will love the open air cars, and frequent trips make this a popular attraction during peak summer months. A fleet of three trains include the Zooliner, the original diesel-powered train that was in operation when the track first opened in 1958.

4. Locomotive at The World Forestry Center

While you are in Washington Park for the zoo ride, stop by this beauty located between the World Forestry Center and the Children's Museum in Washington Park. A 1909 steam locomotive, called Peggy, this 42-ton train was a logging workhorse in her day, hauling an estimated billion feet of logs in her run. Climb on and get a glimpse into life working on train.

5. Columbia Gorge Model Railroad Show

This annual event in North Portland is every train lovers dream. The city of Portland and beyond is replicated and embellished in this miniature version operated by the Columbia Gorge Model Railroad Club. Visit the group's annual open house during weekends in November to get a glimpse into this land of miniature trains and experience this Portland tradition that has been going strong for over 30 years.

Have you visited any of these spots? Share your experiences below!