B&O Railroad Museum

About

The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, Maryland stands on hallowed ground for railroad history. This is where it all began - the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad launched American railroading, and the museum preserves that story in spectacular fashion.

Housed in a magnificent 1884 roundhouse, the museum holds the largest collection of 19th-century locomotives in the Western Hemisphere. You'll find historic engines, passenger cars, mail cars, troop transports, and more spread across 40 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits. The sheer scale of these machines is breathtaking, and seeing them up close gives you an appreciation for the engineering that connected a young nation.

Beyond the hardware, the museum tells deeply human stories. Exhibits explore labor movements, the Underground Railroad, technological innovation, and how the railroad shaped American life. The Smithsonian collection of railroad models is a standout - intricate and fascinating for visitors of all ages.

One of the museum's most popular experiences is the passenger train ride, which takes you on a short journey along the original B&O Railroad line. It's a wonderful way to feel the rumble and rhythm of rail travel firsthand.

The museum regularly hosts special events, seasonal programs, and educational activities for families. Kids especially love climbing aboard select rail cars and exploring the hands-on exhibits.

Plan for at least two to three hours to see the major exhibits, though rail enthusiasts could easily spend a full day. The museum is located in west Baltimore, about a mile from the Inner Harbor, making it easy to combine with other city attractions. Parking is available on site.

Whether you're a lifelong train enthusiast or just curious about the machines that built modern America, the B&O Railroad Museum offers a powerful and engaging experience that connects you to a pivotal chapter of our national story.

Accessibility

The B&O Railroad Museum's buildings and pathways are accessible and meet ADA guidelines. The grounds are generally flat, making wheelchair and mobility device travel manageable across most exhibit areas.

The passenger train ride can accommodate two wheelchairs per train ride - riders should check in with staff upon arrival to arrange boarding assistance. Given the limited capacity, arriving early for train rides is recommended.

On-site parking is available, including accessible spaces in the museum lot. The main exhibit spaces within the roundhouse feature smooth flooring suitable for wheelchairs and walkers.

Some historic rail cars may have steps or narrow doorways that limit interior access for wheelchair users, as these are preserved historic vehicles. However, many exhibits can be viewed and appreciated from platform level.

Restrooms are available on site. The museum's indoor exhibits provide climate-controlled environments, which is helpful during Baltimore's hot summers or cold winters.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, be aware that special event days and weekend afternoons tend to be busier and louder. Weekday mornings generally offer a quieter experience.

Contact the museum directly at (410) 752-2490 for current details on assistive listening devices, service animal policies, or to arrange any specific accommodations before your visit. Staff can also advise on which train rides and exhibits are most accessible for your particular needs.

More accessible places in Maryland

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (Baltimore)
• Walters Art Museum (Baltimore)
• Port Discovery Children's Museum (Baltimore)
• National Aquarium (Baltimore)
• Maryland Science Center (Baltimore)
• The Maryland Zoo (Baltimore)