For anyone who is asking the question, “are there any old-fashioned train rides near me in Illinois?” you’re in luck. There are quite a few different ways to experience Illinois from aboard a locomotive. But perhaps one of the shortest and sweetest train rides is through the Monticello Railway Museum. Spend an afternoon aboard an old steam locomotive that will give you a real blast from the past. This scenic, one-hour Monticello train ride is a historic experience every rail fan must add to their bucket list. Short and sweet, this train trip is an unforgettable excursion you’ll want to take time and again.

Founded in 1966, the Monticello Railway Museum is a nonprofit in Central Illinois that offers old-fashioned train rides to eager railfans. Trips are scheduled for weekends May through October when it is always an excellent time to view the state's foliage.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum
This entirely volunteer-run attraction offers an unforgettable scenic train ride that will take you back to the early 1900s. The trip lasts about two miles, taking you from the museum to downtown Monticello and back.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum
Those who love listening to the train will especially enjoy spending the trip on the open-air observation car that was converted from an old Nickel Plate Road flat car. The views are best from here.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum

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Trains also have interior seating for those who like controlled environments and less noise. You'll likely have your camera pointed out the window for the whole trip to catch the gorgeous views.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum
About once each month, an extra special old train is made available for guests. Passengers can experience a 1907 Southern 2-8-0 steam locomotive that takes you past all the same great sights.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum
Another one of the special rides that guests can enjoy is Throttle Time, which lets you be the conductor. Participants must spend 45 minutes watching and learning how to drive the train before being allowed to operate it themselves for 30 minutes.
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum
Available on Saturdays and Sundays, a round-trip ticket for the train is $15 for adults, though seniors will be allowed aboard for just $12. The cost for children is $8, though anyone under the age of two can ride free with an adult fare!
Facebook/Monticello Railway Museum

For exact departure times and reservations, visit the Monticello Railway Museum website and keep up with it on the Monticello Railway Museum Facebook page. If you’ve ever been on this scenic train ride, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.

If you love trains, check out eight more amazing attractions in Illinois. And for even more Illinois adventures, take a look at Airbnb Experiences for one-of-a-kind opportunities offered up by locals.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Train Rides Near Me In Illinois

Marisa Roman | June 30, 2021

What is the most popular train excursion in Illinois?

For anyone who wants to experience the magic of Christmastime in the Midwest, we suggest climbing aboard the Polar Express. This incredible holiday train excursion in Illinois is the perfect family-friendly event. Climb aboard:

  • The Chicago Union Station Polar Express train is available on select dates in November and December. Guests will sing along to the whimsical movie soundtrack, plus enjoy characters from the book as well as hot chocolate and fresh cookies.

 

What are the most unique day trips in Illinois?

If you have some free time and can’t quite settle on how to fill it, we recommend taking one or a few different day trips in Illinois. While the Monticello Railway Museum mentioned above makes for an excellent Illinois day trip, there are plenty of other ways to see the best Illinois offers. For instance:

  • The Chicago Botanic Garden. Clocking in at over 380 acres, this destination sure is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon.
  • How about a hike through Starved Rock State Park? Just wait until you see these views from the overlook.

 

Where can I find the largest train museum in Illinois?

While visiting the Monticello Railway Museum in Illinois is a worthwhile adventure, there is another train museum that is a fan favorite:

  • The Illinois Railway Museum in Union is not just the largest railway museum in the state, but also the country! Visitors can spend the day riding and exploring locomotives that have been around for decades.

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Featured Addresses
Monticello Railway Museum, 992 Iron Horse Pl, Monticello, IL 61856, USA