Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to preserved Gold Rush era buildings, locomotives, a railroad specialty gift shop and a museum where Industrial and railroad history are intertwined with the workings of Hollywood's film industry. Children and adults alike enjoy visiting the trains and locations used in numerous major films and television shows. Behind the scenes tours of the working railroad roundhouse are also available, as well as wildflower viewing train rides and the famous Polar Express.
Parking and public transportation at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Although limited local transportation is available via bus through Tuolumne County Transit, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is easily accessible from The Golden Chain Highway 108 and offers free parking on two unpaved (but very well-maintained) parking lots. The smaller of the two lots is the most conveniently located: directly adjacent to the Railtown Depot gift shop. It fills up quickly during special events but a larger second lot can be found just across the tracks to the west.
Best and worst time go to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Although the gift shop, museum exhibits and most tours are available year-round, the park only offers excursion train rides on Saturday and Sunday from April through October. A special holiday-themed Polar Express train runs Friday through Sunday during the month of December too. The best time to ride is in April though, when the wildflowers are in full bloom. The Polar Express is famous for its decorations and on-board entertainment but costs significantly more and lacks the naturally breathtaking views of The Motherlode in Spring (plus, it's cold outside). Catch an early Sunday trip to avoid the crowds.
Admission to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Although visitors do have to pay an admission fee, the prices are very reasonable (around $3-$5) and children under the age of 6 are free. Excursion train ride ticket prices vary depending on the seating location and time of year (The Polar Express is more expensive) but include the cost of admission in their price. The park is also fully handicap accessible.
Must see/do at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Whether or not you have a chance to ride a train, don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour of the railroad roundhouse. The tour guides are extremely knowledgeable of the train repairs and maintenance being done (which you'll get to witness firsthand) plus they provide an up-close experience with several interesting film props. This includes the mock-up of an 1880's railroad caboose that was actually used in the filming of "Back To The Future III" among other items.
Other places to visit near Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Before catching your train at Railtown, visit "CC Taqueria" for a breakfast burrito. This unassuming little roadside restaurant is family-run and you'll immediately notice that all the locals eat there. Be patient because the number of customers sometimes bogs down the kitchen but the chicken fajitas are definitely worth the wait.
Insider tip for visitors to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Many people don't realize that Railtown actually welcomes pets (even on the trains). The only requirements are that animals must be kept on a 6' leash and dogs have to be seated next to the window on train rides. So go ahead and bring Fido along.
Author's bio: Ann Milligan is a wife, mom, author and artist who resides in California's beautiful Motherlode region. She can often be found photographing local wildflowers, dancing with her kids and nom-nom-noming.