Where Kentucky's Railroad History Comes Alive
Ride the Rails
Relive the History
WE'VE GOT ANSWERS
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you visit — from tickets and train schedules to volunteering and private charters. Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a call.
Planning Your Visit
Where is the Bluegrass Railroad Museum located?
We're located at Woodford County Park, 2 Beasley Road, Versailles, Kentucky 40383 — in the heart of the Bluegrass region, about 15 miles west of Lexington and 50 miles east of Louisville.
What are your hours of operation?
The grounds are open daily for self-guided walking tours at no charge — you're welcome to stroll among the equipment anytime during daylight hours. The museum is open Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On excursion days, the grounds open one hour before the first scheduled departure.
Is there an admission fee to visit the museum grounds?
Walking the grounds and viewing the equipment is completely free. Admission to the indoor museum exhibits is included with your train ticket. There is no standalone charge for the exhibits on excursion days.
How do I get to the museum?
From Lexington, take US-60 West toward Versailles. Turn right onto Beasley Road just past Woodford County Park. From Louisville, take I-64 East to the Versailles exit, then follow US-60 East. Ample free parking is available on site.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The museum grounds are largely accessible. Our excursion coaches include accessible seating options. Please call ahead at (859) 873-2476 so we can ensure your visit is comfortable and fully accessible.
Can I bring my dog or other pets?
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome on the museum grounds. For the safety and comfort of all passengers, pets are not permitted aboard excursion trains, with the exception of certified service animals.
Quick Links
Still Have Questions?
Our team is happy to help with anything not covered here.
(859) 873-2476
The Train Ride
How long is the excursion?
Our standard scenic excursion is approximately 90 minutes round-trip — an 11-mile journey from Woodford County Park through Kentucky horse country to the Kentucky River gorge at Tyrone, then back. Some special event rides vary in length.
What will I see on the ride?
The route passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Bluegrass region — thoroughbred horse farms, rolling pastures, fields of corn and tobacco, and wooded creek bottoms. At the end of the line, you'll cross above the Kentucky River gorge near Young's High Bridge, once the highest railroad bridge in America.
What ways can I ride?
Our excursion trains use authentic restored vintage passenger coaches. Our First Class cars were originally built in the 1940's and 1950's for longer distance journeys. Open Air or often called "Hobo Class" was used to carry Sherman tanks in WW2 around North America-now outfitted with park bench seats and a carport overhead- these make for amazing views. Our Coach class cars are from the 1920s and 1930s and were used as commuter cars in NY and NJ. All hauled by first-generation diesel locomotives, that can be seen up close with a Cab Ride ticket for our biggest Railfans. Each Class provides a unique way to experience the Kentucky countryside. All seating is open and first-come, first serve.
Is there food or drink available on the train?
We have limited offerings at the Depot gift shop, but to keep our trains clean and preserved for all guests, only water is allowed on the train. You may bring snacks to enjoy before or after your ride.
Can I take photos during the ride?
Absolutely — photography is encouraged! The scenery is spectacular, and the vintage equipment makes for wonderful shots. Please remain seated while the train is moving and never lean out of windows or doorways.
Is the ride appropriate for very young children or infants?
Children of all ages are welcome. Infants ride free. The coach ride is smooth and relatively quiet. We recommend bringing ear protection for very young children who may be sensitive to the locomotive's horn. Strollers are not permitted on board.
Special Events
What special event rides do you offer?
Throughout the year we run themed excursions including the Fourth of July Independence Day Special, the Pumpkin Express (October), and our beloved Santa's Holiday Express (December). Check our schedule page for current listings and dates.
How far in advance do special event tickets sell out?
Popular events like the Pumpkin Express and Santa's Holiday Express often sell out within days of tickets going on sale. We recommend signing up for our email newsletter to be notified the moment new event tickets become available.
Can I rent the train for a private event?
Yes — private charters are available for corporate events, birthday parties, family reunions, school groups, and other special occasions. Private charters can accommodate up to 80 guests. Contact us at (859) 873-2476 or bluegrassrailroad@yahoo.com for charter pricing and availability.
Do you offer birthday party packages for children?
We do! Our birthday party packages include reserved seating, a birthday announcement from the conductor, and a certificate of ride completion for the birthday child. Packages can be added to any regular excursion or special event booking. Contact us for details.
Volunteering & Membership
How do I become a volunteer?
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and skill levels. Visit our volunteer page or call (859) 873-2476 to express interest. New volunteers attend an orientation session and are matched with a role that fits their schedule and interests — from restoration work to operating trains to staffing the museum on event days.
Do I need railroad experience to volunteer?
Not at all. Many of our volunteers came to us with no prior railroad knowledge and learned everything on the job. We have roles for mechanics, painters, woodworkers, welders, historians, educators, tour guides, ticket sellers, and general helpers. The railroad experience comes with time.
What does a museum membership include?
Members receive free admission on all regular excursion days, early access to special event ticket sales, a quarterly newsletter, invitations to member-only events, and the satisfaction of directly supporting the museum's preservation mission. Annual memberships start at $35 for individuals.
Can my scout troop or school group visit for a program?
Yes — we offer custom educational programs for scout troops, school groups, and youth organizations. Programs can include a guided tour of the equipment, an age-appropriate presentation on railroad history, and an excursion ride. Contact our Education Director to schedule a group visit.