2025 was an unforgettable season filled with smiling faces, memorable train rides, incredible group outings, special events, and meaningful moments spent learning about railroad history. Thanks to your enthusiasm and support, every ride was a celebration, and we’re excited to keep the fun rolling in 2026.

Throughout the year, guests can look forward to a full calendar of experiences featuring family-friendly excursions, unique special events, group outings, and opportunities to step back in time and experience the magic of railroading. Whether you’re planning your first visit or continuing a cherished tradition, there’s something on the schedule for everyone.

Have you missed us? Because we’ve definitely missed you!

If you can’t wait to ride again, our first ride of the season is just the ticket!

Thursday, March 19 is the big day, with the train departing at 10:30 am.

To make the day even more special, Operation Lifesaver will be onsite to share important rail safety information. Learning how to stay safe around train tracks is vital for everyone. Join us for educational awareness and a fun train ride—what a great day!

Then, we roll straight into Hop Into Spring, our beloved annual event celebrating the return of warm weather. Complete with Easter Bunny sightings and springtime fun for the whole family, Hop into Spring will take place on March 28 (rides at 10:30am, 12:00pm and 1:30pm) and March 29 (rides at 1:30pm and 3:00pm).

On April 25, we are excited to revive a fan-favorite event from a decade ago, Working on the Railroad Day. With rides at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, and 1:30 pm, guests are invited to spend the day with us learning about the history of railroading, watching our garden railroad in action. 

On Saturday, May 16, we’ll proudly honor our military heroes with Armed Forces Day.  All active-duty and retired military personnel ride free as our small way of saying thank you for your service.

On June 5, we’re debuting another experience we think will quickly become a fan favorite.  TGI F-Ride Day is the perfect way to wrap up the workweek. With evening rides at 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm, head to the railway after work to unwind and kick off the weekend. MoonRunners and Yoyo Froyo trucks begin serving at 4:30 pm, and Thirsty Skull Brewing will be onsite to keep the good times flowing for our 21+ guests.

Then, celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a fun, patriotic train ride on July 1 at 10:30am!  Be sure to wear your red, white and blue.

Thomas & Friends™ in the Garden returns on Saturday, September 12 (rides at 10:30, 12:00, 1:30) and Sunday, September 13 (rides at 10:30, 12:00). Come see G-Scale (1:29 full size) Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, and Emily as they pull a colorful lineup of Thomas-themed cars on their journey to Sodor. Winston and Toby will also be on the layout, and Sir Topham Hatt will be on hand to greet guests. Grab tickets early because this event sells out every year.

Celebrate Veterans Day with us on Wednesday, November 11 as we honor our military heroes. Active-duty and retired service members ride free.

On November 14, climb aboard for our S’mores and Suds event—the ultimate fall treat for the whole family. Enjoy a scenic train ride at 2:00pm or 3:30 pm, then hop off and cozy up by the fire to roast s’mores (we’ve got the kits covered!). Sip craft beer from Thirsty Skull Brewing (21+), warm up with drinks from Naha Brews and enjoy tasty bites from Empanadas and More. With crackling fires, sweet treats and laid-back rail vibes, it’s the perfect way to fall into the season.

Tickets are on sale now!  Buy Tickets  Plan ahead, mark your calendar, and get ready to make unforgettable memories with us in 2026!

 Be sure to read the Trains.com article about these grants!

🚂Exciting News from the North Carolina Railway Museum!🚂

The North Carolina Railway Museum is thrilled to announce that we’ve received two grants to create exciting new educational exhibits for our museum! They are 50% matching grants, which means every dollar you give will be doubled.

You’ve told us what matters most to you: more educational exhibits to explore, more hands-on learning opportunities for children, and improved accessibility for all visitors. These two new projects will make that vision a reality, adding over 80 new interactive, multimedia, and universally accessible experiences designed for learners of every age.

Project 1: LOCOMOTION – The Power to Move (STEM Exhibition)

This exhibit will feature engaging, interactive displays focused on locomotives 67, 71 (#3), and 75, along with the Swift Premium Reefer, a static display of railroad wheels and trucks (including a recreated traction truck), and the engine from a diesel-electric locomotive. (Concept sketch shown here)

Project 2: Voices From a Golden Age – Learning From Our Technological Heritage

This installation will highlight the 1918 ACL Baggage Car, Caboose 302 (a rare Nuclear Escort Vehicle donated by Duke Energy), and a Pre-K STEM Play-and-Learn area inside the Nickel Plate Road Caboose 468.

Our goal is to raise $71,500 in 2025 and $71,500 in 2026 to match these grants and complete both projects.

Your gift will help us bring history to life, inspire future engineers and innovators, and make our museum more engaging and inclusive than ever before.  Donate here