The railroad has always been an important part of the DC area history. It's what has connected us to surrounding communities and trains helped many of the small towns near the district grow into thriving communities. If you're a train enthusiast, you will have no problem finding a train-inspired attraction around DC. In fact, we found several and created the perfect train themed trip for you!
The trip take you all over the DC, Maryland and Virginia area and is about four hours. You can enjoy this trip in one day or you can break it up over several days. You can find interactive directions here.
1. Brunswick Heritage Museum
The Brunswick Heritage Museum in Brunswick is dedicated to the history of the town of Brunswick, which was built along the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. There is a 1,700 square foot model railroad that shows the B&O Metropolitan Subdivision, from Brunswick’s Rail yard all the way to Union Station.
2. Walkersville Southern Railroad and Museum
The Walkersville Southern Railroad takes guests over the Pennsylvania Railroad track which was originally built in 1872. They offer several different train rides including dinner trains, holiday trains and scenic excursion train rides throughout the year.
3. B&O Railroad Station Museum
The Ellicott City Station was built in 1930 and is the oldest surviving railroad station in America. The station was restored as a museum and today, it tells the history of America’s first railroad and the people who built it.
4. Wheaton Miniature Trains
The Wheaton Miniature Trains run through Cabin John Regional Park. They are a replica of a steam locomotive. Visitors can hop on board the miniature train for a scenic two mile ride through the park. Be sure to check the schedule in advance as the trains only operate seasonally
5. National Museum of American History
This museum features an entire Railroad Hall, which highlights trains and cars of all kinds. There is a 92-foot long Southern Railroad locomotive and an old elevated train car from Chicago. It’s a great place to learn the history of transportation.
6. Union Station
Union Station is the heart of train travel in DC. Built in 1907, this station was one of the country’s first great union railroad terminals. The station was declared a historic landmark. Much of the exterior and interior architecture has been preserved so that it is exactly as it was during the station’s heyday in the early 1900s.
7. Fairfax Station Railroad Museum
The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum preserves the role the railroad played in the local Northern Virginia history. The station played an important role during the Civil War as a supply and medical evacuation site. Today, the museum offers displays and train-related activities to educate visitors on railroads and the local history.
8. Claire’s at the Depot
Claire’s at the Depot is a fantastic Southern-inspired restaurant that was once a 18th-century train station. The restaurant is cozy and the food is delicious, making it the perfect way to end your train inspired day.
Do you know someone who would love this train themed road trip? If you prefer to take the train, check out these easy train trips from DC!
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