Train Rides
Where the Past Meets the Present
We run excursion trains on the same trackbed that was used in 1872 when the railroad first opened. You will see many of the same sights that people 150 years ago saw when they took the train into Frederick or when they went in the other direction toward Woodsboro and beyond. We work tirelessly to preserve this unique experience for our passengers and hope that you will enjoy the step back in time that the train ride offers.
Where Do I Check In?
Once you arrive and park, head toward the station if you are planning to ride the train so you can get checked in if you already have purchased tickets, or if you would like to purchase tickets for an excursion. After that, you are free to explore the buildings and grounds and look at the locomotives and rolling stock in the yard until boarding time.
What You'll See
Most of our equipment dates from about the 1920s into the 1940s. Most of our buildings were built in the late 1800s or early 1900s, so you will be walking into a different century! Your safety is our first priority, so if you walk around in the yard, be careful when walking on the gravel and near equipment. Please step over the rail and do not walk on the rails, as they are often slippery. Do not climb onto locomotives or rolling stock without permission. You can, however, put your children up onto the running board of the small #1 locomotive or the ends of the cabooses for photo opportunities. Please manage your children closely. Thank you!
Directions & Parking
Directions
Walkersville Southern Railroad and Museum is approximately 50 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., and 50 miles west of Baltimore, MD. We are five miles north of Frederick, MD, off of U.S. Route 15. Turn onto Biggs Ford Rd., and go two miles to the station on the right.
Parking
We have free parking in the grassy lot next to the station, and additional graveled parking is available across the street and behind our museum (the brick building). Follow the signs that point to train parking. On very busy days, we will try our best to post “Lot Full” signs on the grassy lot so that you can use the alternate parking behind the museum.
Coach Bus Parking: Coach buses can use the grassy lot if there is room, or go around behind the museum where there is much more maneuvering room.
Our Museum
Be sure to go into the museum, which is generally open whenever train excursions are operational. The door is generally closed to keep the temperature under control, so if you see the “Come In” sign posted on the door, then we are open. Our exhibits are not “hands on” unless we invite you with a sign to touch something. So, please don’t move things around, take anything, touch anything or sit on anything. We have a caboose “playhouse” specifically built for children to entertain themselves while adults look at the exhibits but we expect you to keep an eye on them. The books, VHS tapes and DVDs on the bookshelves in the museum are not for sale.
Model Train Layout
Miniature Rails, Big Adventures
Come see the Model Train Club located inside a historic Chesapeake and Ohio Horse Express Car! We’re located behind the museum building and easily accessible from the museum entrance ramp.
The model train club is independently operated from the railroad, and is solely funded by your onsite cash donations. Your donations are greatly appreciated and help keep the trains running.
For more information and model train operating schedule, please see our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Whistle Stop Coffee
All aboard for locally roasted, handcrafted coffee! Whistle Stop Coffee is a mobile café with vintage railcar charm, serving espresso drinks, cold brews, and cozy seasonal favorites right here at the Walkersville Southern Railroad. Whether you’re catching a ride or just stopping by, our drinks are made with heart, and a whole lot of flavor.
Find us trackside during special events and excursion days—your next great cup is just a whistle away!
FAQs
How fast does the train go?
Your train ride will be leisurely, no more than 10 miles per hour.
Do you operate in the snow or rain?
Yes, we operate rain or shine.
Do you assign seats?
Seating is generally first-come, first-served on excursion trains. Occasionally, we assign seats and/or a particular car when an event calls for it. You can choose an open-air car, an enclosed passenger coach, or the caboose if it is not reserved for a special function.
Do you ever change the published schedule?
Schedules are subject to change without notice, although we make every attempt to adhere to our published schedule. We don’t always have control over conditions that might cause a schedule change. If we make a change that alters your plans, we will make every effort to either refund your ticket or book you on a different excursion. Check our Facebook page for the latest information and updates.
Can I smoke on board the train?
Smoking is not permitted aboard the train or in our buildings. And if you do smoke, please refrain from throwing cigarette butts on the ground.
Where are the restrooms?
We do not currently have public restroom facilities at our station or on board the train; we have portajohns near our museum across the street from the station. We do not have restroom facilities aboard the train except for one small restroom on the Southampton parlor car, and this restroom is generally only available to parlor car passengers.
Are cars air conditioned or heated?
The only car that has air conditioning is the Southampton parlor car. Our enclosed passenger and caboose cars are heated in the colder weather with either diesel or propane heaters.
Do you have a gift shop?
We have a small gift shop located inside the station where you buy your tickets.
Do you sell snacks?
We sell bottled soda, water and other drinks as well as small bags of chips and cookies. You are welcome to bring these things onto the train to enjoy, but please put your trash into the trash cans located at the ends of each car.
Can we buy a group of tickets for our organization?
We do offer special pricing on groups of tickets. Check in with our Special Events Director for more information and what is available (casey@wsrr.org).