Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum: A Journey Through Rail History
Discover railroad history in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas at the Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum in Poplar Bluff.
The Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, is dedicated to preserving the railroad history of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas. Housed in the historic 1928 Frisco Depot, the museum offers a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel and its impact on the region. The museum's exhibits showcase artifacts and memorabilia from seven different railroads: Iron Mountain, Missouri Pacific, Union Pacific, Frisco, Butler County, Cotton Belt, and Amtrak. Inside, visitors can explore an extensive model train layout, a gift and hobby shop, and a model railroad repair shop. The model train layout features farms, cities, mountains, mining, deserts, rivers and industrial sites. Outside, the museum grounds feature two cabooses, a mail service car, working cross lights, and a block signal. Visitors can also view a train schedule posted for December 1944, offering a snapshot of wartime rail operations. The Frisco Depot itself is a historical artifact, built in Spanish Colonial style to replace the original Southern Missouri and Arkansas Railroad depot that was destroyed by a tornado in 1927. The depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is operated by volunteers and supported by donations and memberships. Christmas trains and visits by Santa Claus highlight the holiday season at the museum.
Local tips
- The museum is only open on Saturdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum.
- Consider calling ahead to arrange a group tour.
A brief summary to Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum
- 303 S Moran St, Poplar Bluff, Missouri, 63901, US
- +1573-785-4539
Getting There
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Walking
The Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum is located at 303 S Moran St, east of the Black River Coliseum in downtown Poplar Bluff. From most points in downtown, it is easily accessible on foot. Note the historic brick streets along Main and Vine.
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Public Transport
Bluff Area Transit Service (BATS) provides public transportation in Poplar Bluff. Check their routes and schedules for service to the museum. Fares typically range from $1.00 to $2.00 per ride.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and CarGO are available in Poplar Bluff. A short ride from anywhere in the city center to the museum will likely cost between $5 and $15, depending on the service and distance.
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Driving
The museum is located at 303 S Moran St, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901. Limited street parking is available near the museum. Additional parking may be found near the Black River Coliseum. Parking is typically free.
