Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum: A Journey Through Plant City's Rail History
Explore Plant City's rich railroad history at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, showcasing vintage locomotives, railcars, and artifacts in the historic 1909 Union Depot, a landmark of Florida's railway heritage.
The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, nestled in the heart of Plant City, Florida, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich railroad heritage. Housed in the historic 1909 Plant City Union Depot, the museum showcases a diverse collection of railroad memorabilia, including a meticulously restored 1963 Seaboard Air Line caboose and a 1942 Whitcomb locomotive. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the impact of the railroad on Plant City's development, particularly its crucial role in the area's thriving agricultural industry. With free admission, the museum provides an accessible and engaging experience for all ages, allowing guests to step back in time and discover the stories behind the iron horse and its profound influence on this vibrant Florida community. The adjacent train viewing platform offers a chance to witness modern rail operations, creating a unique juxtaposition of past and present.
A brief summary to Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum
- 102 N Palmer St, Plant City, Florida, 33563, US
- +1813-719-6989
- Visit website
- Tuesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the adjacent train viewing platform, open 24/7, to witness modern freight trains passing through Plant City, a unique blend of historical and contemporary rail activity.
- Check the museum's website or Facebook page for special events, model train exhibits, and live webcams of the train activity.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through downtown Plant City to admire the historic architecture and sample local cuisine at nearby restaurants.
Getting There
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Walking
From McCall Park in downtown Plant City, walk south on N Collins St, then turn right onto E Drane St. Turn left onto N Palmer St. The museum will be on your left, a short walk from the intersection. This is a straightforward walk within the downtown area.
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Public Transport
The Lemon bus line has a stop at Welldyne, which is about a 15-minute walk (1234 yards) to the museum. From the bus stop, head towards N Palmer St and follow it to the museum.
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Driving
From I-4, take Exit 21 for Park Rd toward Plant City. Head south on N Park Rd, then turn right onto E Reynolds St. Continue onto E Drane St, then turn left onto N Palmer St. The museum will be on your left. Free city parking is available in the lot next to the train viewing platform, adjacent to the museum.
Discover more about Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum
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