Fantastic! But I must qualify rating. Let me begin by saying I enjoyed my visit to the museum. They have a wonderful collection of several different types of trains (steam, electric, diesel) and an excellent collection of streetcars. You can ride a train and a street car; they have one of each running on different tracks. AND the prices of their food at the Central Diner won't break the bank. I thought the museum was very alive, in the sense that there seems to be a huge staff working on and operating the trains. It felt like a less hectic train yard. Would I recommend visiting the museum ... I hesitate. If you truly enjoy trains, it's an easy yes. If you don't, well, I hesitate to recommend it, even though I really would like you to go visit it. I have only visited a couple railway museums: B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore and the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay. I had a wonderful time at both of these museums, and it is difficult for me to quite put my finger on why I had less fun at the Illinois Railway Museum. I think one of the reasons is that you are always at ground level looking up. You don't get to get in or even have the opportunity for an elevated view of any of the trains, nor do you get to go in the cab of any of them. Because of that, I think I felt less connected to the trains, as so much of them was unseen. The streetcars are low enough that it isn't such a problem. But it would have been wonderful to have a few street cars available to go through. read more

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The trolley conductor Steven was amazing ! So knowledgeable and helpful .. he made the very long trip a perfect day for all of us . Thank you ! Best place ever . Go there now. read more

** Kind Staff ** ** Fun Time ** We have been going to the Illinois Railway Museum for about eight years now and I wanted to share the love. Take an amazing journey through time with these amazing machines. Honestly, whether you're interested in trains or not, you will be captivated by the history stored at the Illinois Railway Museum. Some of these old locomotives are incredible, where they've been, being able to take a peek inside or actually walk into is so cool. This especially great if you have midwest pride, lots from the midwest. Fun stuff for the entire family as well. Train rides with Santa, ride Thomas the Train, great times. They have a dinner that slings a decent burger. There's been magic shows, music and food trucks. Despite the drive the family loves this place and we'll be back! Thanks Illinois Railway Museum! read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

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We drove almost 4 hours from Indiana to go to the museum. We thought it was a nice place to visit and lots of trains and things to see. The down side was. When we purchased our tickets. The staff gave us no information on where to go in this massive place. So we asked an older gentleman in the hobby store. He told us that they would announce over the loudspeakers when the trains were boarding. We never heard one announcement all day long. There was no information any where. No direction on where to go the ride the trains or anything. The volunteers there had no distinguishing outfits so you couldn't tell who was there to help with information or who to ask. The cafe was very over priced for premade hamburgers and fries. We had a good time. But I guess our expectations were too high. We expected more probably wouldn't do the 4 Hour Drive again to go back. read more

An extensive and massive collection of railroad cars, locomotives, and memorabilia. they have steam diesel trolleys, you name it. Really amazing how much they have. You can also take a ride on an electric car that used to go from Chicago to the suburbs. The staff are amazing and will help you find anything that you need. One of the employees even opened the used bookstore to help us find an item. he really went above and beyond to help us in our search for a particular item. The only downside is that several of the attractions had different hours and were closed. Also, we found it difficult to find particular locomotives or cars we were looking for. They can definitely make signage a little better and clearer. Other than that, it is a great place to visit. read more

This place is a worthy! We love the history of the trains. The museum itself is worth seeing. The dinner at the train was phenomenal the volunteers servers were amazing and so friendly and kind! Everyone in Illinois must try this at some point in their life. read more

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The amount of equipment they have is impressive. If you have any interest in railroads you can definitely spend the day here. Wear some boots. Unfortunately they close early. 5pm is a lie. They really start closing at 4pm. This seems to be a common issue as my friend said this had happened to him two years prior as well. They even shut the door and turned the lights off on my friend and I when we were in one of the sheds without any announcement. The train rides were quite short. I expected more from them. It was difficult to ascertain when the trains were set to leave the station. Different staff members will give you different information on when trains operate. the last train for the day was at 3:30 and this information was not posted anywhere I thought the cheeseburgers and fries were excellent. They have a yellowjacket problem. There were many of them in various areas of the park. be careful if you are allergic. I think they could have better engagement for kids. The pumpkin patch was not much. read more

We had purchased tickets for 4 adults (plus my 11 month old daughter attended, but was free) for the holiday railway experience, and I was honestly pleasantly surprised! The trains weren't super decorated, but the lights kept my little one entertained, and our conductor was such a doll and allowed my daughter to try on her hat which was super cute!! I think the tickets ($22/person + tax/fees) were definitely worth the price as you received hot chocolate, a cookie, a Holiday Railway Museum patch, a bell and a mug on your way out (I skipped the mug as I have 500) on top of the 40 minute train ride which was the perfect length for an 11 month old. There were also antique trains you could take photos on and walk inside of which was super cool. And there was a short trolley ride that you could take from the entrance to the holiday railway experience. Overall, super fun and totally worth the drive. Plus the price was far more reasonable than some of the other holiday railway experiences closer to the city. Definitely check it out if you have little ones!! read more

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If you are a fan of trains, this is a must see. Admission fee includes a fee train ride. During the weekend they also offer trolley rides.

This place is awesome and full of history. Great for kids! Knowledgeable employees!!!

We had a great visit to the museum during the Thomas and Friends event. The staff was super helpful and nice. There were lots of kids activities including sand pit , bubble machine, bounce house, playground, inflatables. Plenty of food trucks , food stands to get cool treats and lunch. They have bathrooms all over, a nursing/changing bus , port o potties and indoor bathrooms. If you have small kids bring a stroller, it's alot of walking. Also recommended bringing some cash, a hat and sunscreen. Some vendors take only cash , and no one sells sunscreen read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

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Such a unique fun way to spend a Sunday. You got to walk through some of the trains and push buttons at the toy train museum. The only thing I would recommend is packing a lunch as those areas were not as clean as the rest of the museum read more

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Great place for kids and anyone that loves trains. The trains are not climate controlled and there's some walking involved so keep the weather in mind. Food options were sparse (construction on the cafe) so suggest packing it in. read more

$20 tickets, per person, plus service charges, for a back and forth ride in a train that you can't see out the windows? Windows were so old and dirty we couldn't see anything! When we asked if they could clean the windows or do something so we could see outside, they said "No, but you can enjoy the light show." I would be ashamed if I owned this place, charged these prices, and this was the product. Ripping off families. Shameful. Absolutely not worth the price. read more

loved the santa train but it was on the expensive side of fun activities. but for where it's located not too bad for some fun!

My parents recommended this place for my train loving son. It was a bit of a trek from Chicago (about 1 hour out) but it was worth it! This was a huge place with tons of trains to see everywhere. They offer rides in trolley and steam trains. The train was down and took almost an hour to fix which in the heat was no fun so we didn't get a chance to ride the others given how long that took. The gift store was impressive and we even got some used model train parts as well. We loved the bookstore and playground as well. Though it was nice to have a diner there, they didn't have a ton of food options and my picky eater, remained hungry because there was nothing they wanted. If you are in the area, highly recommend read more

Cool place to go and explore. So close to home. Definitely were disappointed when we found out Thomas the train wasn't real and was only a shell. read more

This is only my second visit to the Illinois Railway Museum and it's as impressive as the first one. This is a low key museum run by volunteers mostly from the railroad or public transit industries and they really make you feel welcomed. They are really passionate about sharing their experiences and answer any question you may have. Yes they have rides but for me the highlight was really the extensive array of trains on display, from old private Pullman cars to really humongous steam engines. This museum really have it all and is a must do for kids and anyone with even just a slight interest in the history of rail in the US and the Chicago and the Midwest area. Always a nice visit. read more

A very beautiful railroad museum which is a hidden local gem and is about 1 hr drive from Chicago. Admission is only $15 per adult and includes the entire exhibit, train rides, and parking. You don't need to be a train enthusiast to appreciate and have a good time at this museum. There are about 8 barns of locos, cars, trams, buses, and other vehicles. Whole it sounds like a lot it only takes about 2-3 hours to go around the whole area. Most of the trains and exhibit objects are from different times of the 20th century. You could see locos and cars from 1900's as well as 1980's and even newer. It is recommended to come during nice weather as barns are not climate controlled and there's a lot of fun outdoors to do here. You can have free rides on the actual steam trains which last about 40 mins and are a great way to experience old times and appreciate everything railroads. Very fascinating. You can also hop on an old tram and go around a smaller loop. The only thing I wish they had is guided tours or audio tours. While there are some signs to read next to each car of loco, there isn't a lot of information on them and I'm sure there is a lot more to learn. Also, there are only a few cars you can actually get inside. Most of the items can only be viewed from the outside, no climbing is allowed. As a bonus the museum store has some books and railroad kits / apparel for everyone interested. read more

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Great attraction and museum! A wonderful way to spend a day or a few hours. Trains everywhere! Over 450 to see! Our favorite the steam engines! Also loved the train ride! We were lucky enough to be there when they were unloading Percy! Thomas the train had already been delivered! That attraction will be the 13th of this Ju,y! If you miss that date there will be others in the future. The price is very reasonable to enjoy this museum. There are vending machines throughout the area for drinks and snacks. Cash or credit cards accepted in them. Also a few playgrounds for children. Areas for sitting and resting. read more

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It was a rainy day but despite this we had a really fun time! We came here for the Thomas the Train event with my 2 year old and he had a great time. The train ride itself was just okay, little slow for his taste, but he really enjoyed the park area, the old trains, and a few of the other activities they had for him. Overall, for the price (very inexpensive) it was a great deal! read more

Such a cool place! We came here on Sunday and went through the barns as well as got to do "take the throttle" experience on a diesel train. The food and drink and museum prices were fair too. Must see- highly suggest the annual membership since you really need to spend a lot of time here taking it all in. Also available to ride the trains too!!! Jim our conductor who taught us to drive the train was amazing read more

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Holiday train express. Santa was there!!!! 40 minute train ride. Cars were all decorated Christmas music playing in each car Greeted by Santa's elves. Hot chocolate Chocolate chip cookies Jingle bell for all kids Caroling Coffee mug for all adults Santa visited every car Elves were very efficient The conductor punched our tickets to the North Pole. Great event! read more

I spent the Sunday of Labor Day weekend at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union. I am not a railroad buff, my brother is. This museum was awesome!! They have working locomotives, trains and 9 huge buildings filled with railroad cars, locomotives of all era's and styles, including restored sleeping cars and former Chicago el cars. It was informative as everything is labeled, often with some additional history. I've lived in Illinois most of my life but this was my 1st visit to this museum; long overdue. My only suggestion (to the IRM directly) Is for them to add eye level lights in building 9 with the locomotives because it would allow us to get a great view of the lower parts and wheels of these unbelievable machines. Union is not a long drive from Chicago or the suburbs. Get yourself there. You won't be disappointed. read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Dishes and serving wear from various train lines. - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

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My son is a Thomas the train fanatic! This was our second year doing day out with Thomas, though he had a great time, I was a little disappointed this year with how scattered and unorganized everything seemed. Overall my son had fun so that's all that matters! read more

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The Illinois Railway Museum is one of the most organized museums in the world. There is so much to see and the train rides are excellent. They have a nice dinner where great food is served. One needs to plan their trip and consider spending two days there. A great place for kids and for those of us that remember another era. A top attraction. read more

This is a fun place to go walk around. Especially if you have people who love trains. It's nice because you can bring your own food and have a picnic while you're there. But they do have a diner place where you can get some food or snacks. The choices are limited but they have hot dogs, pizza, Chips, cookies and fountain drinks and bottles of water. They are currently enforcing the usuals of masks while in buildings and on the trains which is nice and they have hand sanitizer around. read more

Once a year visit from Thomas the Train is awesome, I would come here with family even without Thomas. Old trains that kids can climb and ride. read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Day Out With Thomas! - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

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I thought the Disney Princesses were annoying...and then I met Thomas and his scary eyes. But Thomas and his scary eyes make my 1 1/2 year old son very happy, which is why we drove over an hour to the Illinois Railway Museum for the annual Day Out with Thomas.* I was expecting complete chaos, but have to give the folks behind Day Out with Thomas major props for keeping it as organized as possible. It helps that you purchase tickets for your exact Thomas train ride (yes, you get to ride the "real" Thomas train) ahead of time. Ours promptly took off at 10am as planned and returned 20 minutes later. From there we enjoyed pics with Sir Topham Hatt , dancing with a band, a magic show, Thomas tattoos & way too much shopping in the Thomas gift shop. The only thing I didn't enjoy was the typical carnival type of food (pretzels, corn dogs, popcorn, etc), but I should have known to pack lunch. My 1/2 year old Thomas lover had the best time...and his 3 1/2 year old Princess loving sister may have even had more fun. We'd definitely make the trip again next year unless (of course) they become too "cool" for Thomas & his friends. Not sure I'd make the trip to the Illinois Railway Museum for a typical day that didn't involve Thomas. My son liked seeing all the trains, but for the drive we could just spend the day at our nearby metra station. If you do find yourself in this area Wild West Town** is nearby so you can make a day of it. * http://www.irm.org/thomas/ ** http://www.yelp.com/biz/donleys-wild-west-town-union read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Day out with thomas - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

One of the best railroad museums in the country Not only a museum, also a demonstration railroad with functioning equipment Weekdays electric equipment is running that you can ride, streetcarsand trolleys cars, You have to check their schedule On some weekends other equipment is running Such as diesel locomotives Plenty us also on static display Such as many vintage Chicago elevated train cars. There is a loop that a vintage street car runs on making several stops around the grounds Handy for people who are tired from walking or mobility impared. There is a small children's play area outdoors, a food consession building with indoor seating. Gift shop building. Plenty of parking Also there is a nearby campground if you are a camper of RVing in the area. This is a must visit if you are a railfan or just like trains read more

Very interesting place if you like history and old trains and commuter cars. We came for the Holiday Express Train which might have been its inaugural run. It is a much less expensive alternative to the Polar Express out of Union Station, as long as you don't mind going to Union, Il. The ride is 30 minutes and everyone gets a cookie and hot chocolate. The adults get a mug, the kiddos get a bell. Santa and his elves come by to see what your kids want for Christmas. The event is definitely geared towards 4 years old and up, any younger and they might be bored or confused about what is going on. As a suggestion, and only if it isn't a huge deal, perhaps putting some holiday displays along the route for people to look at out the window might be a nice touch. As for the museum itself, there isn't a lot to keep young kids amused. Understandably, there are only so many train cars they can allow people to walk on because many are over 100 years old. read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Central depot - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

What an adventure! This was my 3rd visit to (IRM) and by far the best ever. For all vintage train lovers this is the place to be. To step back in time to see and learn a bit of American history. What really got things moving from sea to sea. IRM offers a deep look into Early American Railroad history. Just think we would not have our big cities or our little towns if it were not for the railroads. Not to mention the fabulous collection of trains. I was in awe on this visit. I road on the vintage Burlington EMD E5 (Silver Pilot) in the cabin with the engineers. This was the ultimate for me!! To be in the cabin and feel the speed of this beauty. Also not to mention the crash course in operations I received from 2 of the nicest engineers of this classic train. I also road in the rear train cars which was the iconic Nebraska Zephyr which was being pulled by the E5. Simply amazing how much of a smooth luxury ride this was. Another highlight was the Frisco 1630 Steam Engine which was built in 1918. Another amazing beauty! From what I understand it was originally built for the Russian Govt. IRM also has the last remaining Chicago Green Hornet Street (electric car). This too was a very smooth ride and very spacious inside. IRM is a place to visit to take the entire family to learn about Trains and Railway History. What away to support the work that all these phenomenal volunteers are doing here which includes countless hours in restoration and preserving railroad history. read more

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We took my eight-year-old nephew here, who LOVES trains. And he had a blast. We got to ride on a train and he loved the display barns. There where also a bunch of trains that rode around the display barns and were very fun to watch. With all that being said there where a few hitches. The train ride we went on was supposed to leave around 11 but didn't end up leaving until 11:30. My nephew and all of the other kids inside where really antsy, mostly due to excitement, but then the engines would start and it would seem like we were going only to have them turn off again. I understand that these are old train and have their kinks, but perhaps the staff should make sure they're ready to go before letting people with little kids board. The train ride was also 45 minutes long, and I wasn't quite expecting it to be that long. If you want to ride more than one train the rides really cut into your time to do other things. I also wouldn't eat at the restaurant. There was barely anything there to eat and it was overpriced and the staff kept on leaving behind the kitchen doors. I could have left without paying and no one would have noticed. Bring your own lunch and you'll have a better time. read more

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We just spent the day at IRM. A friend recommended it, knowing our son would love it. Success!! He said this is the best birthday trip EVER! We purposefully came on a day with no events so he could take his time. We also lucked into it being a day they ran the steam engine. We were able to ride the steam engine, the trolley (x2), and the electric car. The staff and crew are all so kind and knowledgeable. Excellent day!! read more

Illinois Railway Museum - Museums Near Me - Union, Illinois

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We visited the museum in Aug. 2017, and what a surprise!!!! My husband, at first thought the $15 each was too high. That was until he realized it included unlimited rides on the three engines that where running that day. He was sold! We had a wonderful time wandering around the 100 acres and 20 or so buildings. One barn is about as long as a football field with only steam and electric locomotives - 3 across. The people are wonderful and the facility is just unbelievable. We saw all types of working and not working stock. It is a must for anyone that loves trains or has children! read more

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Went on a Tuesday. Trolley driver shared little about the trolley except to make clear that everyone is a volunteer. No one gets paid. He made no effort to engage the young passenger kids and ignored the no safety of passengers embarking and disembarking. The posted signage on the museum shop and ticket office said 4:30. We went to visit the gift shop at 3:15 and it was closed. The girls inside said the time was on the front dour, which was broken and signage directed us away from that door. No mention was made of early closure when we purchased tickets. A disappointing visit on a weekday. read more

The Illinois Railway Museum in Union is a little boy's life size train set dream come true! Over the years I've been to quite a few railway museums. This is by far the largest in terms of square miles and rolling stock. They have Shore-liners, GG-1, Zephyrs, Trolley or LRV, Steam, diesel and electric engines. They have Milwaukee Road, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, Burlington Northern, Chicago & North Western, Union Pacific. I first started coming here with my son's Boy Scout troop. There is an actual Scouting Merit Badge that boys can earn for Railroading. It's an all day event and includes early admission to the Museum and an opportunity to ride some trains. IRM has a five mile stretch of working rail line which you can ride a mid Twentieth Century Pullman car and steam engine. The Museum has been used on various Hollywood movies, Tom Hank's "League of Their Own" is one example. Keep in mind, the Illinois Railway Museum is a non-profit 19c3 organized in 1953 for educational purposes "The Museum is supported primarily by contributions and by revenues derived from the visiting public. Volunteers serving without pay do most of the work. All contributions to the Museum are tax deductible!" I've been a member for awhile. Membership Rates: $40 - Individual Associate $65 - Family Associate $95 - Individual Sustaining $140 - Family Sustaining Enjoy! read more

This is definitely one of the best train museums in America because there is two steam trains running (Frisco 1630 and the Shay 5), then theres streetcars running on the trolley loop which is handy for the people who cant walk that well, there is a diner at the museum where you can see trolleys running on the back of the diner while you eat with very good food, has a great scenery by the country side (plains), and every year they have a car show (Annual transport extravaganza). read more

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Excellent place to take a little boy who loves TRAINS....little guy is 5 years old....and he LOVED it. We got lucky with mild weather, I cant imagine being here either in the heat of summer, or the cold of winter. The trains are all in enclosed sheds ("barns") and you have to walk between them (with no a/c in them), its all outside and there is nowhere to hide from the sun/rain/wind. The place itself is great, but 1/2 of a day is more than enough. There are several trains in each "barns", but most are NOT OPEN....so you can only walk along side them....pretty boring...even for the 5 year old....the ones you can go on are awesome - like being transported back 40 years or more. We LOVED the train ride there....there is an old depot (that the little guy LOVED)...and an old train that goes on a 45 minute ride......fun, fun, fun. We were there on a Friday before school was out, and it was pretty empty. But I can imagine being there on the weekend, or when its busy, because there is not that much to see/do. You HAVE TO GO if any of your kids love trains......... read more

This is a great place for train enthusiasts. They have a lot to look at, the grounds are spacious so it's nice to walk around. They have a picnic area, so it's nice to bring a picnic lunch and have a nice day out here! read more