Jamestown, CA…To celebrate the opening of the excursion train ride season on April 1-2, 2017, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is offering FREE train rides behind their 1952 Baldwin Whitcomb No.1265 historic diesel locomotive all weekend long. With departures at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., weekend train ride guests enjoy a memorable six-mile, 45-minute round trip ride along the rails of the famous “Movie Railroad.”

The public is invited to kick-off the season with live entertainment on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. by popular local magician Kathy Machado and her assistant Audrey Munoz plus live music performed by Dave Rainwater of the New Christy Minstrels. Guests who visit the Park on Saturday or Sunday will also enjoy FREE Roundhouse tours and have the opportunity to see Sierra No. 3™ (also known as the “Movie Star Locomotive”) up close while learning more about the famous locomotive. 

Capacity is limited for excursion rides so visitors are encouraged to arrive early. Train ride tickets during opening weekend are available in person only on a first-come, first-served basis (based on availability).

After opening weekend, popular steam-powered excursion train rides are offered on Saturdays behind Sierra No. 3™ and on Sundays behind a historic diesel locomotive. After free train rides on opening weekend and for the remainder of the train ride season (April through October), tickets are available online or at the Depot Store, on a first-come, first-served basis. All train ride tickets include Park admission and cost $15 for adults, $10 for youth ages 6-17 and are free for children five and under.

In addition to weekend excursion train rides, special opportunities are available on weekdays at Railtown 1897 SHP as well. On the second Tuesday of each month (April through October), behind-the-scenes Shop Tours are available at 10 a.m. and are included with regular Park admission. Then on Wednesdays throughout the summer season (June 21 through August 9), diesel train rides will be offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Because the train ride schedule is subject to change with expanded service on holiday weekends, etc., visitors are encouraged to call 209-984-3953 or visit www.railtown1897.org for updated information.

Every Californian should take steps to conserve water. Find out how at SaveOurWater.com
Subscribe to California State Parks News via e-mail at info@parks.ca.gov or via RSS feed.