Kentucky tourist railroads you must visit include a restored depot to a 2-8-4 steam locomotive in the Bluegrass State. Here’s our list of must-see tourist railroads, museums, and displays — for almost every region in Kentucky.
Historic Railpark & Train Museum
Bowling Green’s restored Louisville & Nashville depot contains a rail museum featuring two floors of interactive exhibits. On guided tours, visitors can explore railcars including a post office car, a diner, a sleeper, a business car, and an E8 locomotive. The site is open year-round. Escape games are also available.
Location: 401 Kentucky Street, Bowling Green
Phone: 270-745-7317
Website: historicrailpark.com
E-mail: info@historicrailpark.com
Kentucky Steam Heritage Corporation
Kentucky Steam Heritage Corporation’s The Yard in Irvine is home to three steam locomotives: Chesapeake and Ohio No. 2716, QJ-type No. 2008, and Nickel Plate Road No. 587. Other historic equipment including diesels and rolling stock is also preserved at the facility. The Yard is currently open during events and special occasions.
Location: 499 Kirkland Ave, Irvine
Phone: 833-597-8326
Website: kentuckysteam.org
E-mail: info+fb@kentuckysteam.org
Paducah Railroad Museum
Operated by the Paducah Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society, the museum displays equipment and memorabilia from railroads including the three that served Paducah. It operates a locomotive simulator, includes replicas of a waiting room and freight office, and has section cars, tools, and an operating signaling system. A steam engine, caboose, and baggage car are displayed a block away. It is open Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Location: 200 Washington Street, Paducah
Phone: 270-908-6451
Website: paducahrr.org
E-mail: ganblewett@paducahrr.org
