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Museums #5 in Green Bay, Wisconsin

National Railroad Museum

4.7 · 1,970 reviews
Expansive, industrial, and educational.
National Railroad Museum, 2285 S Broadway, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304, United States
Interesting facts
1

The museum houses the Dwight D. Eisenhower command train car used during World War II.

2

The Union Pacific 'Big Boy' 4017 is one of only eight remaining in the world.

3

It holds a Pullman sleeper car used by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

4

The facility was established in 1956 to preserve railroad history in the Midwest.

5

It features a 45-foot-tall rotating locomotive turntable for rotating equipment.

6

The museum collection includes rare examples of gas-electric 'doodlebug' railcars.

7

It is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

8

The museum grounds include an authentic replica of a 19th-century railway depot.

Overview

The National Railroad Museum in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is one of the oldest and largest institutions of its kind in the United States. Its collection features over 70 pieces of rolling stock, including notable steam locomotives and passenger cars. The museum is home to the Big Boy, one of the heaviest and most powerful steam locomotives ever built. Visitors can explore the Lenfestey Center, which houses several indoor exhibits, and the outdoor rail yard. The museum maintains the Aerotrain, a rare example of 1950s experimental high-speed rail design. Educational displays cover the evolution of American rail travel, including the role of railroads during major historical conflicts. The facility operates a seasonal train ride on its own trackage. Interactive exhibits demonstrate the mechanical operation of steam and diesel engines.

Photo spot

Standing on the pilot deck or in front of the massive Big Boy locomotive.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the outdoor rail yard requires significant walking on gravel and concrete paths.

Check the daily schedule upon arrival to see if the museum train is running, as it operates on a rotating basis.

Bring a light jacket, as the large, uninsulated exhibit halls can be significantly cooler than the outdoor temperature.

What to avoid

Do not skip the outdoor rail yard if the weather is pleasant, as many of the largest locomotives are housed outside the main building.

Good to know

The museum train ride operates seasonally during the warmer months and may be cancelled during inclement weather.

Etiquette

Refrain from climbing on equipment unless explicitly designated as accessible; follow all posted safety barriers.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings during the summer months to avoid large school tour groups and weekend crowds.
Address
National Railroad Museum, 2285 S Broadway, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304, United States
44.483, -88.048
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsUnion Pacific Big Boy 4017, Dwight D. Eisenhower Command Train, Aerotrain

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings during the summer months to avoid large school tour groups and weekend crowds..

Standing on the pilot deck or in front of the massive Big Boy locomotive.

Close by you'll find Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame & Museum, Heritage Hill State Historical Park, Ashwaubomay Lake Park.