San Leandro Historical Railway Society: A Journey Through Time
Explore railway history at the San Leandro Historical Railway Society, housed in a beautifully restored 1898 depot, featuring model trains and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Step back in time at the San Leandro Historical Railway Society, a charming museum dedicated to preserving the rich railway heritage of the region. Housed in the meticulously restored 1898 Southern Pacific depot, the society offers a captivating glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Explore fascinating exhibits, including intricate model railroad displays showcasing the Overland Route, and a delightful G&O Garden Railway perfect for children. With free admission and engaging programs for all ages, the San Leandro Historical Railway Society provides an enriching and educational experience for train enthusiasts and families alike. Located in Thrasher Park, a short walk from the San Leandro BART station, it's an easily accessible and worthwhile destination for anyone interested in local history and the magic of trains.
A brief summary to San Leandro Historical Railway Society
- 1302 Orchard Ave, San Leandro, Davis Tract, California, 94577, US
- +1510-569-2490
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a Saturday morning to see the model trains in full operation and chat with the knowledgeable volunteers.
- Bring the kids to enjoy the interactive G&O Garden Railway, a delightful outdoor exhibit with operating model trains.
- Check the SLHRS website or Facebook page for special events, such as model train shows and open houses.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The San Leandro Historical Railway Society is easily accessible via BART. From the San Leandro BART station, walk two blocks west on Davis Street, then turn left onto Orchard Avenue. The SLHRS is located towards the back of Thrasher Park. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. AC Transit lines 10, 1T, 28, 34, 35, and 801 also serve the San Leandro BART station. The San Leandro LINKS shuttle provides free service between the BART station and various points in San Leandro, including a stop near Thrasher Park (alert the driver you need to stop at Orchard & Davis). Check the San Leandro LINKS schedule for operating hours, as it primarily runs during peak commute times.
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Driving
If driving, exit I-880 at Davis Street heading east. Turn right onto Orchard Avenue. The parking lot for Thrasher Park and the Depot will be on your left. From CA-580 N: Exit Dutton Ave. Continue straight on MacArthur Blvd. to Estudillo Ave. Turn right onto Estudillo Ave. and continue to E. 14th St. Turn right onto E. 14th St. and make an immediate left onto Davis St. Continue on Davis St. to Orchard Ave. and turn left onto Orchard Ave. The parking lot of Thrasher Park and the Depot will be on your left. From CA-580 S: Exit Estudillo Ave. At the end of the tunnel, turn right onto MacArthur Blvd. Parking in Thrasher Park is free.
Discover more about San Leandro Historical Railway Society
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