National Railroad Museum

Imagine a place where the power of steel giants that forged the history of an entire continent comes to life. Located in the picturesque city of Green Bay, Wisconsin, you'll find one of the most significant technical spaces — the National Railroad Museum. It is more than just an exhibition of old machinery; it is a grand chronicle of transportation development in the USA, attracting thousands of history and engineering enthusiasts every year.

The museum occupies an impressive territory housing unique locomotives, passenger cars, and rare railroad artifacts. One of the crown jewels of the collection is the famous "Dwight D. Eisenhower" steam locomotive, which was used in Europe during World War II. Thanks to its high rating and rich exhibits, this place is rightfully considered a must-visit for anyone interested in America's industrial heritage.

The museum's displays highlight the vital role rail lines played in the country's economic prosperity and cultural unification. Visitors can not only see the evolution of technology from the first steam engines to diesel power but also feel the atmosphere of past eras by looking inside the interiors of luxurious early 20th-century train cars.

To plan your visit to the National Railroad Museum, it's helpful to have up-to-date contact information on hand. Official museum representatives are always ready to answer visitors' questions by phone or through the website.

A visit to the museum is a great opportunity to see more than 20 historical locomotives and cars in person. Among the most impressive exhibits are elite passenger trains, such as the legendary "20th Century Limited," which once carried celebrities and politicians. Guests can examine the mechanics of steam locomotives in detail, peek into the engineers' cabs, and appreciate the scale of engineering from years past.

For those who prefer active recreation, interactive simulators are provided. Here you can feel like a real engineer and try your hand at "operating" a multi-ton train. Both children and adults are particularly delighted by the mini-train ride through the museum grounds, which allows you to see the collection from a new perspective and enjoy the fresh air.

Throughout the year, the museum hosts themed tours with professional guides who share stories about America's most dangerous and exciting railroad routes. Special events are often held in the summer, such as "Steam Locomotive Day," when some of the machinery is put into action. You can finish your walk at the gift shop, which sells collectible model trains, or enjoy a picnic in designated areas near the historical exhibits.

Reaching the museum, located at 2285 S Broadway in the suburb of Ashwaubenon, is quite simple. If you are traveling by car from downtown Green Bay, the drive takes only 10–15 minutes via South Broadway. The complex offers free parking, which is very convenient for those renting a car or traveling in their own vehicle.

For those who prefer public transportation, Green Bay Metro Connect buses are available. Routes #10 or #12, running from the famous Lambeau Field stadium, stop in the immediate vicinity of the museum. It is recommended to check the current schedule in advance, as it may change depending on the season.

If you are arriving in the region by plane, the ride from Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) by taxi or Uber takes no more than 10 minutes. The museum is also just a 5-minute drive from Lambeau Field, making it easy to combine sports and cultural attractions in a single day.

The history of this site began in 1956, when a group of enthusiasts and railroad buffs decided to preserve the disappearing heritage of America's steel highways. The museum's creation was driven by a desire to protect unique pieces of machinery that played a key role in the exploration and development of the Midwest.

The city of Green Bay itself is inextricably linked to transportation: as early as the 1860s, after the completion of the first tracks, it turned into a powerful industrial hub. Railroads stimulated the local economy, particularly paper production and trade at the mouth of the Fox River. The museum clearly demonstrates how steam power changed the face of the region and the entire country.

Initially, the museum's collection was formed through private donations and gifts from major railroad companies. By the 1970s, the collection had expanded significantly to include not only civilian locomotives but also rare military exhibits. Today, it is a recognized national center that carefully preserves the memory of the "Golden Age" of trains in the USA.

To fully enjoy the museum's atmosphere and carefully study all the exhibits, it is recommended that the average visitor set aside 2 to 3 hours for their visit. This is enough time to explore the indoor exhibits, featuring historical documents and small artifacts, as well as to walk through the outdoor area with its giant locomotives.

If you are planning a trip with children, you should count on a longer stay — up to 4 hours. The interactive zones, the chance to sit in the cabs, and the mini-train ride can keep young travelers engaged for a long time. On weekends and holidays, visit times may increase slightly due to the popularity of certain exhibits.

The museum welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for both weekday and weekend visits. Note the extended hours on Tuesdays, which is perfect for an evening viewing of the exhibits.

Current operating hours:

• Monday: 09:00 – 17:00
• Tuesday: 09:00 – 20:00
• Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:00
• Thursday: 09:00 – 17:00
• Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
• Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00
• Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00

After immersing yourself in the world of railroads, it's worth checking out other interesting places in the area. Exploring the neighborhood around the museum will allow you to learn more about Wisconsin's history and enjoy the local flavor.