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Railroad Museum of New England: A Journey Through Rail History

Explore New England's railroad heritage at the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston, Connecticut. Scenic train rides and historical exhibits await!

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The Railroad Museum of New England, located in Thomaston, Connecticut, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's railroad heritage. Situated at the historic Thomaston train station, the museum features a diverse collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts, along with scenic train rides on the Naugatuck Railroad.

A brief summary to Railroad Museum of New England

  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train's departure to allow time for parking and ticket retrieval.
  • Check the RMNE website for the train ride schedule and special event details.
  • Consider becoming a member to receive discounts on train rides and gift shop purchases.
  • Visit the gift shop for railroad-themed souvenirs and books.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Railroad Museum of New England is located at 242 East Main Street, Thomaston, CT 06787. From Route 8 Northbound, take exit 38 and follow the signs to the museum. From Route 8 Southbound, take exit 40 and follow the signs. Parking is free onsite. Limited parking is available, especially during special events.

  • Walking

    From the center of Thomaston, the museum is a short walk. Head east on Main Street, and the museum will be on your right, just past Plymouth Glass. Follow the 'Railroad Museum' signs.

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Discover more about Railroad Museum of New England

The Railroad Museum of New England (RMNE) is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich railroad history of New England. Founded in 1968, the museum has grown to house one of the largest collections of preserved historic railroad equipment in the region. The museum's primary location is the historic Thomaston Station, built in 1881. This beautifully restored Victorian-era station serves as a gateway to the museum's exhibits and the Naugatuck Railroad. Visitors can explore the station's displays of railroad artifacts, including vintage postcards and smaller railroad items. The RMNE's collection includes over 60 pieces of full-sized railroad equipment, representing various New England railroads such as the New Haven, Boston & Maine, and Maine Central. Highlights include diesel locomotives like the New Haven #0401, the first ALCO cab-type diesel locomotive to be preserved in the United States, and steam locomotives, such as Maine Central #529. The museum also features passenger and freight cars, and cabooses, including Central Vermont Railway wood caboose No. 4014. In addition to the static displays, the RMNE operates the Naugatuck Railroad, offering scenic train rides through the Naugatuck River Valley. These excursions provide a unique perspective on the region's industrial past and natural beauty, passing through state forest lands and across the Thomaston Dam. Special event trains, such as the Chocolate Decadence Tour, Tequila Train, and Santa Express, add to the museum's appeal.

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