Medford Railroad Park

Imagine a wonderful world where history comes to life in miniature and full size. The Medford Railroad Park is a unique open-air museum located in Medford, USA. Spanning approximately 49 acres, this park is a true sanctuary for technology enthusiasts and families seeking interesting adventures.

This place was born from a remarkable partnership between city authorities and four non-profit clubs dedicated to preserving the railway heritage of the Rogue Valley. Here, full-sized historic carriages sit alongside incredibly detailed garden railways and operating models crafted with precision. The highlight of the park is the miniature trains, which both children and adults can ride.

The park doesn't just showcase machinery; it tells the story of the region's development through the lens of the iron roads. One of the most impressive exhibits is a large-scale replica of the 1911 Pacific & Eastern Railroad route, recreating the path to Butte Falls. Medford Railroad Park harmoniously blends an educational mission with an exciting attraction, drawing thousands of delighted visitors every year.

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The main attraction that draws guests from across the state is the rides on miniature trains, affectionately called "Steamers". These 7.5-inch gauge trains travel on specially laid tracks across bridges and past scenery, giving passengers the full sensation of a real train journey, just on a smaller scale.

Be sure to stop by the Rogue Valley Model RR club pavilions. There, you'll find a massive layout recreating the historic 1911 route. The level of detail is astounding: tiny buildings, human figures, and landscapes transport viewers to Medford's past. Garden design enthusiasts will appreciate the displays by the Medford Garden Railroaders, where trains are elegantly integrated into picturesque floral and plant compositions.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the park features a spacious picnic area. It's the perfect spot for a family lunch in the fresh air. On open house days, club members often host demonstrations, discuss the nuances of model building, and share archival photos, turning a simple walk into an educational outdoor history lesson.

The easiest way to reach Medford Railroad Park, located at 799 Berrydale Ave, is by car. Medford has a well-developed road network, and convenient parking is available on-site for visitors. The drive from the city center takes only a few minutes.

If you prefer public transport, you can use the Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) buses, which stop within walking distance of the park. For those arriving in the region by air, the trip from Rogue Valley International-Medford (MFR) airport by taxi or rental car takes about 10–15 minutes.

Thanks to its location near residential areas, the park is also popular with cyclists and walkers. Medford's scenic trails allow for a comfortable walk to the main gates while enjoying the fresh air of the Rogue Valley.

The history of this amazing place began in 1979, when the city administration entered into an agreement with the Southern Oregon Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. The idea of creating a themed space was supported by the council, and although work on the project began immediately, the park officially opened its doors to its first visitors in 1982.

Since its inception, the project has been an example of unique cooperation. Several organizations joined forces under one roof: the Railway Historical Society, the Model Railroad Club, and the Southern Oregon Live Steamers community. Later, a fourth member joined this friendly family—the Medford Garden Railroaders, adding the elegance of landscape models to the exhibits.

One of the most ambitious development stages was the 2003 construction of a detailed replica of the 1911 Pacific & Eastern Railroad route. Club members painstakingly recreated the path from Medford to Butte Falls, and work on refining this model continues to this day. Enthusiasts plan to continue working on the landscape and buildings for another decade to achieve absolute historical accuracy.

Today, the park is more than just a museum; it's a living embodiment of the Rogue Valley's railway history. Traditions are carefully preserved here, passing engineering knowledge from the older generation to the younger. This place shows visitors what the railway was in the past, what it is now, and the bold dreams brought to life by the engineers of the last century.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and see all the key sights of the park, we recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is enough time not only to ride the miniature trains but also to carefully study the detailed models in the pavilions.

If you plan your visit for one of the official club operating days (the second and fourth Sunday of each month), allow extra time to talk with the enthusiasts. They are happy to share their trade secrets and historical facts. Many tourists also choose to end their walk with a family picnic in the specially equipped area, which can extend your stay in this cozy place by another hour.

For those who simply want to enjoy the peace and nature, the park's picnic area is open year-round. However, to see the park in all its glory and ride the trains, you need to plan your visit during the seasonal period.

The main attractions and club pavilions operate from April to October on the second and fourth Sundays of the month from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Since the schedule can change depending on weather or special events, visitors are strongly encouraged to check for the latest information on the organization's official social media page before heading out.

Exploring the surrounding area after visiting the park will allow you to get an even better feel for the region's atmosphere and make your trip as rewarding as possible. Within a few kilometers of the park, you will find cozy places to relax as well as interesting urban landmarks.