Golden Spike Tower and Bailey Yard In Nebraska Are a One Of A Kind Attraction

Most people know that Nebraska is a railroad state. Many of the small towns and cities were founded because of the railroad passing through the area. Union Pacific, the country’s largest freight railroad, is headquartered here. So you might say that we know a little something about trains. But nowhere is that more apparent than at the Golden Spike Tower and Bailey Yard in North Platte.

Bailey Yard is the world's largest railroad classification yard. It covers 2,850 acres and stretches out for an amazing eight miles in length and two miles in width.

Every train that passes through Bailey Yard is required to stop here. Some need repairs or service, some need to change crews, but all of them have to stop. Approximately 150 trains pass through every day hauling a total of 14,000 freight cars.

The Golden Spike Tower was built to give visitors a firsthand look at the operations of Bailey Yard. It's a non-profit organization that provides information about the railroad as well as what exactly happens at the very busy Bailey Yard.

Visitors start out their tour at the bottom of the tower, looking at the interpretive displays about railroad history and watching a short welcome video. Volunteers are always around to talk about Bailey Yard or Union Pacific. Some of them are retired or former UP employees.

You can then take the elevator up the the open-air platform on the seventh level of the tower or to the enclosed observation deck on level 8. Wherever you're standing, watching the trains move around is absolutely mesmerizing.

Whether you're a train enthusiast or not, this is really a fascinating experience. You never quite understand just how complex the railroad system is until you see all of these trains in action, rolling around to be classified and serviced and sent on their way.

There’s even a gift shop for people who want to take a piece of the experience home with them. The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center is open October 1 – April 30: Mon-Sun 10am – 5pm; and May 1 – September 30: Mon-Sun 9am – 7pm. It’s located at 1249 North Homestead Rd., North Platte, Nebraska 69101.

Be sure not to miss North Platte Rail Days 2017! It’s happening September 15-17th and will feature tours of Bailey Yard, behind-the-scenes exhibits, and a whole lot of fun. Visit the North Platte tourism site for all the details.

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There’s No Attraction In The World Like This One In Nebraska

Delana Lefevers

Author

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