The Western Pacific Railroad Museum opens its 2024 season on Thursday, May 2, 2024. The museum will be open 12 noon to 4 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, and 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. To help kick off the new season, there will be special motorcar rides on Sunday, May 5, from 11 AM to 4 PM.  

What is a motorcar?

Also called “speeder cars” or “Putt-Putts”, a motorcar is a small, self-propelled work vehicle once common on America’s railroads. These cars replaced human powered handcars to allow crews to inspect the line or reach a worksite without using a full sized train. Today, this work is performed by trucks and SUVs with retractable “hi-rail” wheels and the classic motorcar is only operated by some museums, shortlines and private owners. Enjoy this rare chance to ride these historic cars and experience a different side of railroading. Rides on Sunday, May 5 will be FREE with admission to the museum.

Run-A-Locomotive reservations are now open at the Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola, California. The world famous program lets you operate a REAL railroad locomotive. One of their RAL instructors will be your guide as you operate a locomotive in their historic rail yard. Group events can also be scheduled.  Bring a friend or bring the family! Admission to the Western Pacific Railroad Museum is included with your RAL session, letting everyone explore the extensive collection. For more information, contact the Western Pacific Railroad Museum at 530-832-4131 or visit wplives.org.

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