Durand Union Station, located in Durand, Michigan, is a historic train station that currently serves Amtrak Blue Water trains. This station, originally a bustling hub for the Grand Trunk Western Railroad and Ann Arbor Railroad, is now a significant part of Michigan's railway history. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a piece of the past while enjoying modern train services.
The Durand Union Station is not just a train station, but also a home to three small railroad history museums. These include the Michigan Railroad History Museum, the Grand Trunk Western Railroad Museum, and the Ann Arbor Railroad History Museum. Each museum offers a unique perspective on the rich history of railroads in Michigan, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in trains and history.
Durand Union Station is a popular destination for railfans, especially during the annual Durand Railroad Days Festival in May. This event attracts train enthusiasts from all over, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate and learn more about Michigan's rich railroad history. Whether you're a seasoned railfan or just curious about trains, this festival is a great way to experience the excitement of railroading.
Science & Technology History & Anthropology Historic house Industrial heritage Railway
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 13:00 – 17:00 |
200 S Railroad St, Durand
No exhibitions in Durand Union Station - Michigan Railroad History Museum have been found.
Durand Union Station - Michigan Railroad History Museum has 1 rating.
The Durand Union Station - Michigan Railroad History Museum offers visitors an insightful look into the state's rich railway heritage. Located in the historic Durand Union Station, the museum provides a blend of architectural beauty and educational exhibits. Visitors often appreciate the well-preserved structure of the station itself, which serves as a living piece of history.
The museum's exhibits showcase a variety of railroad artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that highlight Michigan's significant role in the development of rail transportation. Many guests find the displays informative and engaging, particularly enjoying the model train layouts and the opportunity to explore vintage rail cars.
However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small, which may limit the depth of information available. Additionally, a few reviewers mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or more interactive elements to enhance the overall experience.
The staff and volunteers receive praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, often providing interesting anecdotes and answering visitors' questions. The gift shop is also mentioned as a nice addition, offering railroad-themed souvenirs.
While the museum may not occupy visitors for an extended period, it generally provides a worthwhile experience for those interested in railroad history or looking to understand Durand's historical significance as a rail hub. The museum's location near active train tracks adds to the atmosphere, though it may also result in occasional noise disturbances.
Overall, the Durand Union Station - Michigan Railroad History Museum offers a focused and nostalgic journey through Michigan's railroad past, making it a solid choice for history buffs and train enthusiasts, albeit with some room for expansion and modernization.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.