Nevada State Railroad Museum – A Family Ride Through Nevada’s History

As we continue exploring and showcasing more of our beautiful city and its surroundings, some experiences invite us to travel just beyond the Las Vegas border.

One of those discoveries is the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City — a fascinating destination that blends history, nostalgia, and family fun into one unforgettable visit.

Located just a couple of blocks from Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum and Outpost 51, the Railroad Museum stands as a proud tribute to Nevada’s rich locomotive history.

It’s one of those attractions that quietly surprises you — part living museum, part playground for young explorers, and an absolute must for anyone who’s ever felt a twinge of excitement hearing the sound of a train whistle in the distance.

A journey through time

A few months back, I had the chance to visit the Nevada Northern Railway Museum in Ely, NV, on a long road trip, and we also covered the Echoes of Calico Ghost Town.

For someone who grew up watching westerns and cowboy movies, trains carry a special kind of nostalgia. So finding a similar experience so close to home made this visit even better.

The Boulder City museum is designed for all ages, but there’s something especially magical for kids. As we crossed the tracks, a train full of families and children rolled in right on cue — the perfect welcome to a day of discovery.

At the front, a beautifully detailed stagecoach replica sits proudly on display, offering a glimpse into how people once traveled across the desert before railroads reshaped the landscape.

Historic cars and exhibits

The Merci Car – A gift across oceans

Moving inward, one of the first exhibits we encountered was the Merci Car — a remarkable piece of post-war history. In 1947, Americans across the country donated food, clothing, and other essentials to help France recover from the devastation of World War II.

In gratitude, the French responded with the “Merci Train,” sending one boxcar filled with gifts to each of the 48 U.S. states at the time. These boxcars, known as “40 et 8” cars, could hold 40 men or 8 horses and symbolized unity and compassion.

Nevada’s Merci Car, which arrived in Carson City in 1949, is now on temporary display here in Boulder City. It’s a powerful reminder of international friendship and the human stories connected by rail.

Number 35 Caboose – The lifeblood of Nevada

Next up was the Number 35 Caboose, part of a collection that traces how railroads helped shape Nevada’s economy from its statehood in 1864 to the modern day.

From mining and logging to agriculture and passenger travel, trains were truly the lifeblood of the state’s growth. The museum’s exhibits beautifully capture that evolution — both through full-sized cars and interpretive displays that make history feel alive.

The Mail Car – Letters on the move

One of the most fascinating stops is the Mail Car, reconstructed thanks to a local donor, to show how postal workers once sorted and delivered mail across the country.

It’s a striking reminder that communication wasn’t always instant — and that every letter had a journey of its own.

The Living Car – Life on the rails

We then stepped into a replica of a “living-in” car — complete with bunks, a work desk, and a small sitting area. It’s a humbling look at life on the rails, a time when workers traveled long stretches away from home. Let’s just say there was no Netflix or Wi-Fi in those days!

The Train Model Exhibit – A world in miniature

The visit wrapped up at the Train Model Exhibit, a huge hit with kids and adults alike. Miniature locomotives weave through detailed landscapes featuring red desert cliffs, bridges, and old western towns — a tiny, magical world that captures the romance of American rail travel.

Seasonal attractions

The Santa Train and Winter Wonderland

During the winter months, the museum becomes even more special with its seasonal attractions. The Santa Train ride brings festive cheer to families, offering a short yet joyful trip down the tracks, complete with holiday decorations and music.

Why it’s worth the visit

The Nevada State Railroad Museum is more than just a collection of old train cars — it’s an interactive journey through Nevada’s history. It’s educational, hands-on, and perfect for families looking to do something unique and meaningful together. Kids love climbing aboard and imagining the past, while adults can appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind each car.

After your visit, keep the day going with lunch at The Patio at Chilly Jilly’s nearby or stop by Hemenway Park to take in the views of Lake Mead and spot the famous bighorn sheep grazing on the hills. It’s the perfect way to round out a day of exploration in Boulder City.

Admission: $2 for adults, Free for children; train ride tickets available for an additional fee.

A ride through history

For families, train lovers, and curious kids alike, the Nevada State Railroad Museum is a destination that connects generations. It’s a reminder of how the West was built, how people traveled, and how far we’ve come. And like every great journey, it begins with a single ticket — and a little imagination.