Southern California Railway Museum

Spanning over 100 acres in Perris, California, the Southern California Railway Museum (formerly known as the Orange Empire Railway Museum) stands as a monumental tribute to the region’s transit evolution. As the largest railway museum in the Western United States, it serves as a “living” archive, housing an unparalleled collection of over 200 rail vehicles. Its crown jewel is the world’s most extensive collection of Pacific Electric Railway rolling stock—the legendary “Red Cars” that once knitted together the sprawling Los Angeles basin. Visitors can also explore an impressive array of Los Angeles Railway “Yellow Cars,” historic steam locomotives like the Ventura County Railway No. 2, and the unique Grizzly Flats Railroad collection donated by Disney animator Ward Kimball.

The museum experience is defined by its immersive excursions, where history literally moves beneath your feet. Every weekend, the museum operates a rotating schedule of historic trains and trolleys, allowing passengers to enjoy unlimited rides on a variety of vintage equipment. Beyond standard sightseeing, the museum offers unique interactive opportunities, such as the “Run-One” program, where enthusiasts can take the throttle of a diesel locomotive or electric trolley under professional supervision. Seasonal events further bring the grounds to life, featuring everything from “Behind the Scenes” tours of restoration shops to the family-favorite Day Out with Thomas and the Polar Express during the holidays.