There’s nothing like a train ride when you feel like a relaxing adventure through Southern California’s beauty. We’ve sure got a lot of train adventures to choose from, but the Golden State at Pacific Southwest Railway Museum may be one of the best! Operating on weekends year-round, this train chugs along through hills and countryside for a scenic journey you won’t soon forget. Plan a day at the railway museum and hop aboard for a lovely SoCal adventure.
Located about 50 miles east of downtown San Diego, the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is on a mission to preserve the legacy of rail transportation in California. In addition to the museum, they offer train rides so you can actually experience a bit of living history for yourself!
The Golden State is the museum's signature train ride that takes place every weekend on Saturdays and Sundays. Departing from the Campo Depot, the Golden State chugs along through the rugged backcountry for a relaxing adventure that everybody can enjoy.
In operation since 1986, a ride on the Golden State makes for a memorable family adventure. The train ride lasts approximately 45 minutes and winds through the beautiful San Diego County scenery.
Fare for the Golden State is $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, $9 for children, and free for infants and toddlers. Purchase of your train ticket also includes admission to the museum!
Make your experience extra special and consider taking a ride in the locomotive cab instead of the regular passenger car. This option allows passengers to experience what railroading is like from the engineer's point of view. Only two Locomotive Cab Ride tickets are available per train, so reserve yours well ahead of time.
Back at Campo Depot, passengers can detrain and continue to explore the railway grounds or the gift shop. And definitely be sure to pop into the museum to see the over 120 pieces of equipment and artifacts on display.
It's always a good day to ride the Golden State through the gorgeous scenery! Purchase your train ticket and learn more about Pacific Southwest Railway Museum here.
Have you ridden the Golden State at this railway museum in Southern California? This looks like a great adventure for young and old alike. Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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