1. Home
 ›
2. Tourism
 ›
3. Independence Day Rides
 ›
4. Illinois

Illinois Independence Day Train Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: May 14, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Independence Day is a time of celebration, brimming with fireworks, parades, and patriotic displays. An intriguing and memorable way to commemorate this day in Illinois is aboard a train ride.

Train excursions not only offer a unique vantage point to admire stunning landscapes and fireworks but also evoke a nostalgic feeling for a bygone era of American travel.

There is currently one location in the state celebrating railroads andAmerica's birthday, the Illinois Railway Museum.

Illinois Railway Museum

The IRM, located in Union, Illinois, offers a captivating train ride experience on Independence Day. It boasts an impressive collection of rolling stock and memorabilia, providing a rich historical context for the ride.

What to Expect:

The museum does not host a special train on the July 4th Weekend.  However, they do celebrate with additional rides around the grounds during Friday and Saturday.   The organization states they plan to operate restored steam, diesel, and electric locomotives as well trolley buses.

More About The Museum

The IRM is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums dedicated to the preservation and presentation of railroad history in North America. It spans over 90 acres, offering an expansive glimpse into the evolution of rail transportation in America.

Founded in 1953 by a group of rail enthusiasts, the IRM originally started with the purpose of preserving interurban cars but quickly broadened its scope to include a wide variety of railway equipment.

Today, it boasts a vast and diverse collection of locomotives, passenger cars, streetcars, and other historical rail-related artifacts. This collection showcases the rich tapestry of rail history, highlighting both the technological advancements and the cultural impact of railroads on American society.

The museum's star attractions include steam locomotives, diesel engines, electric streetcars, and even trolley buses. A standout in their collection is Norfolk & Western #2050, a massive 2-8-8-2 Mallet steam locomotive. Equally impressive is the collection of interurban cars, such as those from the Chicago, North Shore & Milwaukee Railroad, which offer insights into the role of electric railways in urban and suburban transit.

In addition to static displays, the IRM offers a unique, interactive experience. Throughout the year, the museum operates many of its preserved vehicles on its demonstration railway, allowing visitors to ride historic trains and streetcars. These rides are not only a nostalgic journey into the past but also a practical demonstration of how these vehicles contributed to commerce and daily life in their era.

The museum also focuses on educational activities, providing a comprehensive understanding of railway history. Its archives house an extensive collection of photographs, technical drawings, maps, and other documents, offering resources for researchers and enthusiasts alike. School groups and family visitors can benefit from guided tours and interactive educational programs designed to engage and inform audiences of all ages.

The museum hosts special events throughout the year, which often include themed exhibits and railfan weekends that attract visitors from across the nation. Events like the annual "Day Out With Thomas" and the "Bunny Trolley Hop" add a family-friendly atmosphere to the museum, drawing younger generations into the world of railway history.

The museum operates as a non-profit organization, relying heavily on volunteer work and donations. Its passionate community is dedicated to the restoration and maintenance of its collections, ensuring these remnants of America's industrial and cultural history are preserved for future generations.

IRM stands as a testament to the vital role railroads played in the development of the United States. With its rich collection, operational demonstrations, and commitment to education, it offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for anyone interested in understanding the past and continuing legacy of rail transportation.

Final Thoughts

 Celebrating Independence Day by exploring the state's rail history is a memorable experience for all ages. Whether you choose a trolley along the Fox River, a steam train at Monticello, or a historical journey at the Illinois Railway Museum, each offers a unique way to honor America's birthday. Remember to book your tickets in advance, consider additional activities and experiences offered by each venue, and prepare for a day of nostalgic travel and patriotic enjoyment.