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Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum: Alabama's Railroading Heritage

Explore Alabama's railroading past: vintage trains, historic depots, and scenic rides at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera.

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Discover Alabama's rich railroad history at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera. Explore vintage locomotives, railcars, and artifacts, and take a scenic train ride through the forests of Shelby County.

A brief summary to Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for the train ride schedule and special events before your visit.
  • Admission to the museum is free, but there is a charge for train rides and special events.
  • The museum's gift shop offers a variety of railroad-themed souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is located at 1919 9th Street, Calera, AL 35040. From I-65, take exit 231 and head east on AL-25/AL-31. Turn left onto 9th Street. Proceed one block to the parking area on the right. Parking is available for customers. There is no parking fee.

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Discover more about Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, located in Calera, Alabama, is the official state railroad museum, dedicated to preserving, restoring, and operating historically significant railway equipment. Founded as a railfan club in Birmingham in 1962, the museum has grown to feature a wide range of locomotives, cars, and other railroad equipment dating from the 19th century to the 1950s. The museum's collection includes steam and diesel locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and specialty equipment. Visitors can explore two historic depots: the Calera Depot, which houses railroad artifact displays, and the Woodlawn Depot, home to the Boone Library, a research center with railroad books, maps, and documents. The museum operates regularly scheduled excursions with its equipment, offering visitors a chance to ride vintage trains through the scenic forests of Shelby County. Special events, such as the North Pole Express and Wild West Day, add to the museum's appeal. The museum aims to preserve the sights, sounds, and artifacts of railroading for future generations.

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