Local Spotlight: B&O Railroad Museum
The greatest thing about where we live is how much there is to do and see. As we all sit and wait patiently (or not so patiently) for the better weather to arrive, sometimes the best thing to do is to meander over to some of our local indoor gems.
What better than a classic museum?
The B&O Railroad Museum is recognized universally as the birthplace of American railroading. This museum, focused on the historic major American railroad headquartered in Baltimore, is truly a national treasure.
That’s right. Here in our amazing neighborhood, local businessmen and engineers began building the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad back in 1829. They were able to lay the first commercial long-distance track, build the first passenger station, and invent America’s very unique railroad system (borail.org).
Did you know that this museum is even an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum? If you’ve never been, you’re truly missing out on a big piece of Baltimore’s history. There’s something about the drama that was involved in the history of American railroads that is truly fascinating.
In 2014, the museum was even honored as one of TripAdvisor’s 2014 Certificate of Excellence award recipients. Whether you’re in the mood for a train ride, to learn some history, or attend one of the may events offered, you’re sure to have a good time here.
If you’re looking for something to do this upcoming spring, check out these events:
March 1 – March 31
Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Learn about the contributions of women such as civil engineer Olive Dennis, and Maggie Hudson – one of the first women porters to ever work on the B&O.
Now – March 31
Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm & Sunday, 11am – 4pm
A new temporary exhibit, Best In Service, is a unique art collection honoring the historical legacy of African Americans on the B&O Railroad. You can learn more about the work of such seminal B&O Railroad workers as Thurgood Marshall, Fearless Mentor Williams, Charles Wright and Maggie Hudson.
Train Rides at 11:30am & 2pm
March 16, 2019, at 12 Noon
If you or someone you know worked for the B&O, this event allows you to share your memories of the railroad’s heritage. At this event, you can even witness one man’s incredible feat of power: moving a locomotive or rail car while balanced on the Roundhouse’s 60-foot turntable! Not something you want to miss!
Thursday, March 21
10:30am
Stuck inside with your toddler? Get out and enjoy the day by attending toddler time at the museum. Bring your young children to listen to a classic railroad story, create a craft, enjoy playtime at Choo Choo Blue Kids Zone, and take a ride on the indoor train carousel – all included with paid admission.
Sunday, March 24
10:00am – 4:00pm
This is an amazing and well-thought-out opportunity for children and guest with Autism Spectrum Disorders and sensory processing differences. The museum opens an hour earlier on this day for special guests and modifies the museum’s lights and sounds to accommodate their needs. Additional volunteers and staff will be available to support visitors throughout their stay. Event is free with general admission. To RSVP and receive specialized sensory story, contact Rebecca Funk.
Event Dates: April 27 – 29 & May 4 – 6
What kid wouldn’t love a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine? A great experience that allows kids to take a 25-minute train ride behind Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and experience some live entertainment, games, crafts and more! Even better, something new this year is a meet and greet with Thomas’ animal loving friend Nia (a ten-foot inflatable). Come ready to take pictures for this one.
Lots of things to learn and fun to be had at our amazing local treasure. Have you been to the B&O Railroad Museum? Tell us about your experience below!
