Posted in Arkansas Attractions, Museums March 08, 2023 by

There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Museum In Arkansas And You’ll Want To Visit

Chooo Chooo!!! Are you a train enthusiast or a kid at heart who loves trains? Or perhaps your kid is a tiny engineer in the making. If so, you’re in for a humongous treat! With 70,000 square feet of space, the Arkansas Railroad Museum in Pine Bluff is the place for you. From old railroad cars to steam locomotives to cabooses to model trains to railroad memorabilia, and more, you’ll see it all at this incredible train museum in Arkansas. Climb on board this little-known railroad museum and discover everything it has to offer. 

Located inside the old Cotton Belt machine yard in Pine Bluff is the Arkansas Railroad Museum, and it’s a haven for train enthusiasts.
Thomas Cluff/Google
Hop on board from Thursday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to explore the largest display of railroad equipment in the state.
Operated by the Cotton Belt Rail Historical Society, the museum is FREE, but donations are certainly welcomed.
Thomas Cluff/Google
Once you step inside the building, be prepared to be blown away by the massive size of the train exhibits.
Unlike many other museums in the state, you can touch, climb inside, as well as operate many of the displays at the Arkansas Railroad Museum ...
Arkansas Railroad Museum/Facebook
… making it a fun adventure that kids and adults will love.
Of course, the museum has a miniature train set, which is a delight to watch.
Thomas Cluff/Google
For adult train enthusiasts, you’ll love the historical memorabilia as well as learning the history of the railroad industry in Arkansas. The knowledgeable volunteers will guide you through and answer any questions that you may have.
The little engineers will have a blast at this museum, so be sure to have your camera to capture every minute of their exploration.
Thomas Cluff/Google
Aside from the railroad exhibits, you will also see an old fire engine along with a huge snow plow. Also, be sure to check out the vintage toys and purchase some cool merch from the gift store.
While all the displays are incredible, the centerpiece of the museum is the historic Engine 819, the last steam engine that was built inside the Cotton Belt machine shop.
Arkansas Railroad Museum/Facebook
No words can describe how magnificent this piece of history is — you just need to witness it for yourself!
One thing’s for certain, you’ll be blown away by this little-known train museum in Arkansas.
Joel Simmons/Google
Not only will you love the interactive displays, but you’ll also be fascinated by the historical aspect of it all. Bring the entire family to explore the most incredible museum in the state.

So, are you ready to hop on board the railroad cars at the Arkansas Railroad Museum? If so, visit the website and Facebook page to plan your adventure.   

Did you know that the longest bayou in the United States is located in Pine Bluff? Here’s a previous article telling you more about Bayou Bartholomew in Arkansas. 

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Address: Arkansas Railroad Museum, 1700 Port Rd, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, USA