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News Release

Celebrate National Train Day At The Oregon Rail Heritage Center - Two Days Of Steam, History, And Family Fun! (Photo) - 04/10/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrate National Train Day at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Two Days of Steam, History, and Family Fun

PORTLAND, OR — All aboard for a full weekend of steam, history, and hands-on fun as the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) presents its largest-ever National Train Day Celebration, now expanded to two exciting days on May 9 and 10, 2026.

This annual, family-friendly event invites guests to step into the golden age of railroading with immersive experiences, live steam locomotives, and interactive exhibits that bring the Pacific Northwest’s rail history to life.

Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see Portland’s legendary locomotives — Southern Pacific 4449 and Spokane, Portland & Seattle 700 — under steam and on display throughout the weekend. These living, breathing machines are a powerful reminder of the region’s railroading legacy and the volunteers who keep them running today.


But the experience doesn't stop there. Guests can also make their visit even more memorable by riding behind the historic Polson No. 2, a 114-year-old steam locomotive, on a 45-minute scenic excursion along the Willamette River to Oaks Park and back. Trains depart every 90 minutes from 11:00am to 5:00pm.

“This weekend is about more than just trains—it’s about bringing history to life,” said Rick Franklin, President of the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation. “There's nothing quite like seeing, hearing, and riding behind these locomotives. It connects people to the past in a way that books and photos just cannot.”


Event Highlights

  • SP 4449 and SP&S 700 under steam
  • Cab tours of these legendary locomotives
  • Demonstrations of the historic Brooklyn Turntable
  • Steam train excursions behind the Polson No. 2
  • Model railroad displays from local clubs and enthusiasts
  • Food trucks and refreshments
  • Family-friendly activities
  • Opportunities to explore the museum and rail yard
  • And plenty of railroading excitement all weekend long!

Admission & Tickets
General admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for National Train Day is $5 per person, with free admission for children under age 3 and ORHC members. Steam train ride tickets include admission to the Center and start at $25 for adults and $15 for children, with discounted senior, military, and family pass tickets also available. Proceeds directly support the Oregon Rail Heritage Center’s mission to preserve, restore, and share Pacific Northwest railroad history.

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at www.orhf.org. Advance ticket purchase for train rides is strongly recommended, as many train departures are expected to sell out. A limited number of day-of train ride tickets may be available at higher pricing.

Getting There

Limited free parking is available. Guests are encouraged to use TriMet or the Portland Streetcar. The Center is conveniently located across from the OMSI MAX Station.

Event Details
What: National Train Day Celebration

When: Saturday, May 9 & Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 10:00am-6:00pm
Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR, 97214
General Admission: $5.00 (Free for children under 3 and ORHC members)
Train Ride Tickets (Advance): Adult $25 | Senior & Military $22.50 | Child $15 | Infants (under 3) Free | Family Pass $72
Train Ride Departures: 11:00am | 12:30pm | 2:00pm | 3:30pm | 5:00pm

Don't miss one of Portland’s most exciting and historic events of the year — come see, hear, and ride living railroad history.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://orhf.org/blog/national-train-day-returns-may-9-10-2026/.

About the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.


Media Contact
Renee Devereux, Executive Director

Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Phone: (503) 233-1156
Email: rdevereux@orhf.org
Website: https://orhf.org/

 

###

Attached Media Files: A sweeping birds-eye view of the ORHC buzzing with excitement on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Visitors step into history as they explore the cab of the iconic SP 4449 on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, The legendary SP 4449 comes alive in steam on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Guests get an up-close look inside the cab of the powerful SP&S 700 on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Crowds gather in awe as the SP 4449 steams proudly on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Polson #2 leads the way, pulling excited passengers on unforgettable excursion rides during National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Inside the ORHC, visitors immerse themselves in railroad history on National Train Day, May 10, 2025,

Celebrate National Train Day At The Oregon Rail Heritage Center - Two Days Of Steam, History, And Family Fun! (Photo) - 04/10/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrate National Train Day at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Two Days of Steam, History, and Family Fun

PORTLAND, OR — All aboard for a full weekend of steam, history, and hands-on fun as the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) presents its largest-ever National Train Day Celebration, now expanded to two exciting days on May 9 and 10, 2026.

This annual, family-friendly event invites guests to step into the golden age of railroading with immersive experiences, live steam locomotives, and interactive exhibits that bring the Pacific Northwest’s rail history to life.

Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see Portland’s legendary locomotives — Southern Pacific 4449 and Spokane, Portland & Seattle 700 — under steam and on display throughout the weekend. These living, breathing machines are a powerful reminder of the region’s railroading legacy and the volunteers who keep them running today.


But the experience doesn't stop there. Guests can also make their visit even more memorable by riding behind the historic Polson No. 2, a 114-year-old steam locomotive, on a 45-minute scenic excursion along the Willamette River to Oaks Park and back. Trains depart every 90 minutes from 11:00am to 5:00pm.

“This weekend is about more than just trains—it’s about bringing history to life,” said Rick Franklin, President of the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation. “There's nothing quite like seeing, hearing, and riding behind these locomotives. It connects people to the past in a way that books and photos just cannot.”


Event Highlights

  • SP 4449 and SP&S 700 under steam
  • Cab tours of these legendary locomotives
  • Demonstrations of the historic Brooklyn Turntable
  • Steam train excursions behind the Polson No. 2
  • Model railroad displays from local clubs and enthusiasts
  • Food trucks and refreshments
  • Family-friendly activities
  • Opportunities to explore the museum and rail yard
  • And plenty of railroading excitement all weekend long!

Admission & Tickets
General admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for National Train Day is $5 per person, with free admission for children under age 3 and ORHC members. Steam train ride tickets include admission to the Center and start at $25 for adults and $15 for children, with discounted senior, military, and family pass tickets also available. Proceeds directly support the Oregon Rail Heritage Center’s mission to preserve, restore, and share Pacific Northwest railroad history.

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at www.orhf.org. Advance ticket purchase for train rides is strongly recommended, as many train departures are expected to sell out. A limited number of day-of train ride tickets may be available at higher pricing.

Getting There

Limited free parking is available. Guests are encouraged to use TriMet or the Portland Streetcar. The Center is conveniently located across from the OMSI MAX Station.

Event Details
What: National Train Day Celebration

When: Saturday, May 9 & Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 10:00am-6:00pm
Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR, 97214
General Admission: $5.00 (Free for children under 3 and ORHC members)
Train Ride Tickets (Advance): Adult $25 | Senior & Military $22.50 | Child $15 | Infants (under 3) Free | Family Pass $72
Train Ride Departures: 11:00am | 12:30pm | 2:00pm | 3:30pm | 5:00pm

Don't miss one of Portland’s most exciting and historic events of the year — come see, hear, and ride living railroad history.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://orhf.org/blog/national-train-day-returns-may-9-10-2026/.

About the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.


Media Contact
Renee Devereux, Executive Director

Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Phone: (503) 233-1156
Email: rdevereux@orhf.org
Website: https://orhf.org/

 

###

Attached Media Files: A sweeping birds-eye view of the ORHC buzzing with excitement on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Visitors step into history as they explore the cab of the iconic SP 4449 on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, The legendary SP 4449 comes alive in steam on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Guests get an up-close look inside the cab of the powerful SP&S 700 on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Crowds gather in awe as the SP 4449 steams proudly on National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Polson #2 leads the way, pulling excited passengers on unforgettable excursion rides during National Train Day, May 10, 2025, Inside the ORHC, visitors immerse themselves in railroad history on National Train Day, May 10, 2025,

Spring Celebration Rolls Into Portland With Easter Bunny Express At Oregon Rail Heritage Center (Photo) - 03/19/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Spring Celebration Rolls into Portland with Easter Bunny Express at Oregon Rail Heritage Center


Portland, OR — On April 4 and 5, families and train enthusiasts are invited to hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for a festive 45-minute steam train ride pulled by the legendary Polson No. 2 steam locomotive. The round-trip journey departs from and returns to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, offering a scenic ride along the Willamette River.
 

Guests can look forward to a memorable seasonal adventure combining fun and a touch of railway history. The Easter Bunny will be hopping onboard each ride to spread joy and cheer, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and selfies. Along the way, passengers can enjoy kid-friendly activities, a festive scavenger hunt, and the beauty of spring along the river.


Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase on board, with options for both kids and adults, making this the perfect outing for families celebrating the season together.


Admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center is included with every train ticket, allowing guests to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride.


Event Details:

  • When: Saturday, April 4 & Sunday, April 5
  • Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  • Train Departure Times: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm
  • Tickets Prices:
    • Adults (14+) – $24
    • Seniors (65+) – $21.50
    • Military (with ID) – $21.50
    • Children (3-13) – $17
    • Infants (Under 3) – Free
    • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $74
  • Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this popular springtime tradition. Don’t miss out on this egg-cellent adventure—reserve your seats today and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.


About Oregon Rail Heritage Center:

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.


Media Contact:

Renee Devereux, Executive Director

Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Phone: (503) 233-1156
Email: rdevereux@orhf.org

Website: https://orhf.org/


###

Attached Media Files: ORHC-EasterBunnyExpress-2026-1.png, The Easter Bunny pays a visit to a young guest on the Easter Bunny Express, Joyful guests with the Easter Bunny on the Easter Bunny Express, The Easter Bunny with ORHC volunteer Patty Savage,

Spring Celebration Rolls Into Portland With Easter Bunny Express At Oregon Rail Heritage Center (Photo) - 03/19/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Spring Celebration Rolls into Portland with Easter Bunny Express at Oregon Rail Heritage Center


Portland, OR — On April 4 and 5, families and train enthusiasts are invited to hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for a festive 45-minute steam train ride pulled by the legendary Polson No. 2 steam locomotive. The round-trip journey departs from and returns to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, offering a scenic ride along the Willamette River.
 

Guests can look forward to a memorable seasonal adventure combining fun and a touch of railway history. The Easter Bunny will be hopping onboard each ride to spread joy and cheer, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and selfies. Along the way, passengers can enjoy kid-friendly activities, a festive scavenger hunt, and the beauty of spring along the river.


Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase on board, with options for both kids and adults, making this the perfect outing for families celebrating the season together.


Admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center is included with every train ticket, allowing guests to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride.


Event Details:

  • When: Saturday, April 4 & Sunday, April 5
  • Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  • Train Departure Times: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm
  • Tickets Prices:
    • Adults (14+) – $24
    • Seniors (65+) – $21.50
    • Military (with ID) – $21.50
    • Children (3-13) – $17
    • Infants (Under 3) – Free
    • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $74
  • Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this popular springtime tradition. Don’t miss out on this egg-cellent adventure—reserve your seats today and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.


About Oregon Rail Heritage Center:

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.


Media Contact:

Renee Devereux, Executive Director

Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Phone: (503) 233-1156
Email: rdevereux@orhf.org

Website: https://orhf.org/


###

Attached Media Files: ORHC-EasterBunnyExpress-2026-1.png, The Easter Bunny pays a visit to a young guest on the Easter Bunny Express, Joyful guests with the Easter Bunny on the Easter Bunny Express, The Easter Bunny with ORHC volunteer Patty Savage,