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Illinois Railway Museum Tickets
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About Illinois Railway Museum
Welcome to the Illinois Railway Museum, the largest operating railway campus in the United States. Located on a expansive 100-acre campus in Union, IL, the museum features 20+ structures and nearly five miles of mainline track. From on-site demonstrations to real train rides, this is a living history experience for enthusiasts and families alike. Secure your seats for events, plan your visit, and explore the rich heritage of railroading with us.
We’ve got you covered with practical details: on-site free parking with ample space and overflow for large crowds; no fixed Union bus service, but Metra access is available via nearby Woodstock and Crystal Lake options, and McHenry County MCRide offers Dial-A-Ride service. Boarding for many events happens at the East Union Depot on museum grounds, while general parking and entry are at the main site. For a comfortable trip, consider nearby lodging like Holiday Inn Crystal Lake or KOA Union, with additional Crystal Lake-area hotels available. Whether you’re here for Day Out With Thomas, the Vintage Transport Extravaganza, Bunny Trolley Hop, Pumpkin Train, Hops Aboard, or the Happy Holiday Railway, we’re your connection to a smooth, easy, and enjoyable experience.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Address: 7000 Olson Road, Union, IL 60180.
- Campus size and scope: roughly 100 acres with 20+ structures and nearly five miles of mainline track.
- Venue type: largest operating railway/museum campus (not a single-event venue); on-site demonstrations and train rides.
- Parking: on-site free parking; ample space with overflow for large events.
- Transit: accessible via McHenry County MCRide (Dial-A-Ride); no fixed Union bus service; Metra access via nearby Woodstock/Crystal Lake options; reservations recommended.
- Boarding/directions: many events board at East Union Depot on the museum grounds; general parking and entry located at the main site.
- Notable events: Day Out With Thomas, Vintage Transport Extravaganza, Bunny Trolley Hop, Pumpkin Train, Hops Aboard, Happy Holiday Railway, among others.
- Nearby hotels and lodging: Holiday Inn Crystal Lake (Crystal Lake, IL) and KOA Union (campground) are commonly used as nearby lodging; additional Crystal Lake-area hotels are available.