The Nevada State Railroad Museum, Carson City will host its annual Star Spangled Steam-Up from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, 2026, offering three days of historic train rides, family-friendly activities, educational programming, food vendors and summer fun during Independence Day weekend.
Taking place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, the event invites visitors of all ages to experience Nevada’s railroad heritage through a variety of interactive activities and operating historic equipment. Guests can enjoy games, live music and family-friendly activities throughout the day, along with educational programs presented from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The museum’s Jacobsen Interpretive Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the Annex will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, offering visitors an opportunity to explore exhibits and learn about Northern Nevada’s rich railroading history.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests can ride behind three pieces of historic railroad equipment operating throughout the event, including Locomotive No. 25, Glenbrook and the McKeen Motor Car. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local food trucks serving food and refreshments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For those interested in learning more about the museum’s collection and operations, behind-the-scenes tours will be offered daily at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Admission tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 4 to 17 and free for children ages 3 and younger. Last admission each day is at 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the museum website.
The Nevada State Railroad Museum, Carson City is located at 2180 South Carson St. in Carson City. More information is available at carsonrailroadmuseum.org.
About Nevada State Railroad Museum, Carson City
The Nevada State Railroad Museum, Carson City, located at 2180 South Carson St. in Carson City, is open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, and free for museum members and children 17 and under. The museum preserves and interprets Nevada’s railroad history through its collection of historic locomotives, rolling stock, artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. In addition to exhibits, select equipment is restored and operated throughout the year, offering rides on historic locomotives and motor cars during select weekends, holidays, and special events. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit the museum website for train ride schedules, special event tickets, and weather-related closures. More information is available at carsonrailroadmuseum.org.
