Regular Weekend SCHEDULES & FARES
We will be giving train rides on Saturdays and Sundays from May 3 through October 5, 2025. Passengers may board the train at the Nelson Crossing Depot (the main museum site) or at the Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello. The ride lasts one hour, however, passengers may choose to layover at either depot and take a later train back to their original station. Most trains will be powered by one of our vintage diesel locomotives, however, steam locomotive No. 401 is scheduled to operate one weekend per month during our operating season.
Tickets may be purchased at the Nelson Crossing depot on the day of your visit, however, they can also be purchased online below. If you buy tickets online, please check in at the Nelson Crossing depot before your ride.
2025 Regular Weekend Schedule
Saturday and Sunday Departures
Museum Site Monticello
11:00 AM 11:30 AM
12:30 PM 1:00 PM
2:00 PM *2:30 PM
* no return trip to downtown
Regular Weekend Fares For Diesel Trains
Fares are sold as round trips. Fares may differ for Special Events.
Adults: $15.00
Seniors (62 and older): $12.00
Children (2 through 12): $8.00
Children (under 2): Free (with adult fare)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are reservations required?
Reservations are not required but are encouraged.
Is the train handicap accessible?
Yes, the train is handicap accessible. However, the caboose and open-air car are not. Please email tickets@mrym.org to request handicap accommodations.
Are there restrooms on the train?
Restrooms are not available on the train, but there are restrooms at both of our depots. It is recommended that you use the restroom before your trip.
When should we arrive at the depot?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
I reserved tickets online, where do I pick them up?
Tickets can be picked up at the main museum site in the Nelson Crossing Depot.
Are we allowed off the train during the trip?
Yes. The train will make a 10-15 minute stop at the Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello. You are welcome to get off the train during this time.
Are the cars air conditioned or heated?
Due to the historic nature of the equipment we use on our regular weekend trains, regular air conditioning and heat is not available. However, the cars have windows that can be opened and adjusted. Once the train starts moving, a nice breeze always sets in. Please ask the conductor for help if you want to adjust your window.
Is seating assigned?
No, passengers may choose their own seats.
How long is the train ride?
The regular weekend train rides are roughly one hour in length, including the stop at the Wabash depot.
Cab Rides
Cab rides are offered to allow visitors the rare opportunity to ride in the locomotive with the engineer. They are offered at a first come, first serve basis for $20 above the normal adult ticket fare. Cab rides are only offered on regular weekends and during the annual Railroad Days event. They are not available during special event weekends or when the steam locomotive is running. A maximum of two cab riders can be accommodated per trip. Hearing protection is recommended.
Normal fares apply unless otherwise specified. Please note that schedules, fares and equipment are subject to change at the museum's discretion.