All railway museums to visit in Massachusetts

Make a historic journey through railway history at 9 museums in Massachusetts dedicated to trains and railroads. These museums celebrate the development and impact of rail transport.

Are you a train enthusiast? Here are the best railway museums in Massachusetts:

  1. Chatham Railroad Museum1

    Chatham Railroad Museum

     Chatham, MA
    The Chatham Railroad Depot is a historic train station building located in Chatham, Massachusetts. It is recognized for its historical significance and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition adds to the cultural and historical value of the site, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.
  2. Holyoke Heritage State Park2

    Holyoke Heritage State Park

     Holyoke, MA
    Managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Holyoke Heritage State Park features a visitors center. This center houses exhibits about paper manufacturing and Holyoke's industrial and cultural past. These exhibits provide a deep insight into the city's history and its industrial evolution, making it an informative stop for visitors.
  3. West Barnstable Station3

    West Barnstable Station

     Barnstable Town, MA
    West Barnstable station, located in West Barnstable, Massachusetts, is a railway station that currently serves as a weekend stop for several excursion trains. These trains are operated by the Cape Cod Central Railroad, providing a unique and historical mode of transportation for visitors to the area.
  4. Bedford Depot4

    Bedford Depot

     Bedford, MA
    The original depot, built in 1874, and the 1877 freight house are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Along with a restored Budd Rail Diesel Car, these structures form the centerpieces of the Bedford Depot Park. The park is a testament to the rich history of the area and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
  5. Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum5

    Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum

     Lenox, MA
    The Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum, located in Lenox, Massachusetts, is a unique destination for those interested in railroad history. The museum offers a variety of historical exhibits that provide insight into the rich history of railroads in the region. Visitors can explore the museum's collection and learn about the significant role that railroads played in shaping the United States.
  6. Western Gateway Heritage State Park6

    Western Gateway Heritage State Park

     North Adams, MA
    Western Gateway Heritage State Park is a history-centric state park located in the city of North Adams, Massachusetts. The park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the region, making it an interesting destination for history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.
  7. National Streetcar Museum7

    National Streetcar Museum

     Lowell, MA
    The National Streetcar Museum is a unique attraction located in Lowell, Massachusetts. It is not just a museum, but also a heritage railway, offering visitors a chance to explore the history of streetcars in the United States. The museum is a part of the Lowell National Historical Park, which is operated by the National Park Service.
  8. Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum8

    Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum

     Shelburne Falls, MA
    The Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum is a quaint railroad museum located in the scenic town of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of railroads and trolleys in the United States.
  9. Wenham Museum9

    Wenham Museum

     Wenham, MA
    The Wenham Museum boasts a collection of approximately 45,000 objects. These include textiles, toys, photographs, archival documents, children's books, and objects related to domestic life dating from the 17th century to the present. This diverse collection provides a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the region, making it a fascinating destination for tourists.