Going back in time, 100 years, every major city in the United States was serviced by electric railroads. Operating everything from streetcars to full-sized locomotives, California cities were no exception. Starting in San Francisco, a train would leave the station only to travel on the lower level of the Bay Bridge, into the hills of the east bay, and onto Sacramento. This was California’s original high-speed rail, but it dried up by 1941.

Today these trains are preserved and operating at the Western Railway Museum in Suisun City, California. Operating on 5.5 miles of track of the old Sacramento Northern Railway, the museum is a glimpse into the history of electric railroads. Running through the hills of Solano County, you see California as it once was, farms, fields, and the coastal mountains of the East Bay off in the distance. Wildflowers paint one of nature’s prettiest pictures in the springtime, and the fresh air is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding cities.

The museum’s collection of historical railcars is one of the finest in railroad preservation. Over 50 restored streetcars, passenger cars, freight cars, and locomotives are displayed. Taking a guided tour inside the museum’s indoor carhouse display building provides an educational experience at a leisurely pace. One will hear how steam power trains and electric trains worked together moving freight and passengers, be able to step inside authentic Pullman passenger coaches, and see how electric streetcars evolved from the early 1900s to the light rail systems we have today.

Taking in the fresh air and open countryside from the museum’s beautiful tree-lined park, you will find the perfect stop to enjoy a picnic lunch before moving on to your next adventure. Take a stroll in the open-air car barn and see streetcars from San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Australia, and England. Make sure to stop by the visitor center gift shop filled with goodies for all ages.

The Western Railway Museum is located just south of Interstate 80 on Highway 12 in Suisun City, California. Only an hour’s drive time from Sacramento or San Francisco, and a half-hour from Napa Valley we are an ideal location to visit on your way across California. Find out more information on train times, group rates, and visitation hours at www.wrm.org. See you down the rails!