If you like trains and if you like climbing around on them, then the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay belongs on your to-do list!
Located across the street from an elementary school and on the shores of the Fox River, this moderate sized museum is a treasure! We have been to a handful of museums with historic bike, car, and plane exhibits that are entirely roped off from the public. But not The National Railroad Museum! They welcome their visitors to touch, explore, romp, and experience. There are stairs to climb, cabinets to open and seats to sit in.
It is easy when exploring all these trains to imagine an earlier time, when people travelled everywhere this way. We love the luxury of Eisenhower’s Command Train, the fifties style of the AeroTrain, and the electric/diesel GG-1- to name a few.
The grounds contain a train themed playground with picnic tables. And for an additional $1 over the admission price, you can take a real 15 minute train ride circling the property. There is also a fire tower to ascend for a bird’s eye view of the museum and Green Bay.
There is no snack shop so pack a lunch/snack to enjoy at the picnic tables. Restrooms and water fountains are plentiful within the museum. There is a small gift shop with moderately priced items. A museum membership is worth considering as it may save you money if you plan a repeat visit at some point during the year.
Tip: Goose poop is everywhere at this museum. Definitely recommend you leave the flip flops at home if you plan to walk around the grounds.