Yosemite History & Museums: Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, California

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Railtown 1897

Railtown 1897 State Park, located west of Yosemite on California Highway 49, offers real life history of the American railroads, including the chance to ride on an authentic steam locomotive. Read More

  • Railtown 1897 State Park offers rides on authentic steam locomotives
  • Learn fascinating details of the history of American railroads
  • Train tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children
  • Ages 5 and under are free
  • Open all year
  • Take a self-guided walking tour to see movie and TV props

Overview

Railtown State Park, in Jamestown, California, is a special spot for train enthusiasts, but everyone has fun visiting this attraction. Not only will you see many authentic and restored trains, but you can also enjoy rides on locomotives at this still-operating railroad roundhouse.

Location/Directions

You can get to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park from Yosemite by taking Highway 120 from the park to its intersection with Highway 49. Turn right and head to Jamestown. Take any of the exits into town and watch for signs.

Contact information: 209- 984-3953

Hours/Seasons

Railtown 1897 California is open all year, with daily tours.

Hours for the park are:

  • April to October: Daily 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
    (Excursion trains operate Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm)
  • November to March: 10 am to 3 pm Thursday through Monday
    (Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day)

Fees

Admission to Railtown State Park California is reasonably priced: $5 adults; $3 youths ages 6-17; children ages 5 and under are free. Train tickets include museum admission: $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 6 to 17.

More Info

This park with its fully operational roundhouse has been the subject of numerous films and television shows. The historic locomotives and cars have appeared in hundreds of productions, including Petticoat Junction, Back to the Future III and High Noon. Take a self-guided walking tour to see many movie props and other items used in feature films, television productions and commercials.

Special events take place throughout the year, making it a great place to come for families. At the autumn festival in October, you’ll find all kinds of activities, demonstrations, music, train rides and lots of fun! At Christmas, you can ride Santa’s Starlight Express, filled with the holiday spirit and plenty of caroling.

Other Railtown 1897 Resources

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

The Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to one of the few still operating railroad roundhouses.