Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 Returns Through Ohio: July 2026 Whistle Stops & Public Display Schedule

Published: July 9, 2026

As part of its historic Coast-to-Coast America 250 tour, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive is making several stops across the Buckeye State on its westward journey.

The legendary 4014 is coming back through Ohio in mid-July 2026. After its eastbound passage through the state in early June and a swing through Pennsylvania and New York, the massive 4-8-8-4 steam locomotive will make whistle stops in Struthers, Rocky River, and Continental, plus a major public display day in Fostoria. This is a rare opportunity for Ohio railfans and history enthusiasts to see the only operating Big Boy in action on its first-ever East Coast tour.

The Big Boy Legend

Built by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) in 1941, the Big Boys were the largest and most powerful steam locomotives ever constructed for regular service. Union Pacific ordered 25 of them to conquer the steep grades of Sherman Hill in Wyoming with heavy freight trains.

No. 4014 was retired in 1961 and sat on display in Pomona, California, for decades before Union Pacific restored it to operating condition in 2019. Today it stands as a 1.2-million-pound, 132-foot-long marvel of engineering — the only operable example of its type in the world.

The 2026 Coast-to-Coast America 250 Tour

Union Pacific is running No. 4014 on a once-in-a-lifetime coast-to-coast journey to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. After a spring trip to California (including a stop at the historic Central Pacific Milepost Zero in Sacramento), the locomotive embarked on the eastern leg of the tour in late May.

Traveling over Norfolk Southern tracks for the first time in many of these states, the Big Boy is making whistle stops and display appearances across Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania — many of them first-time visits for the locomotive. Major public display events have already taken place in Philadelphia (July 4–5) and Altoona, Pennsylvania (July 9–10). The eastern leg will conclude later in July before the locomotive heads back toward its Wyoming home base.

Ohio saw the Big Boy twice in June on the eastbound leg (Continental/Fostoria on June 6 and Lorain/Euclid on June 8). The July stops represent its return trip westward.

Ohio Schedule – July 2026 Return Trip

Sunday, July 12 – Struthers, Ohio Whistle Stop South Bridge St. Crossing Arrive: 11:30 a.m. EDT | Depart: 12:00 noon EDT

A brief but exciting stop in Mahoning County. Expect the locomotive to pause long enough for photos and whistle salutes.

Monday, July 13 – Rocky River, Ohio Whistle Stop 19060 Depot St. (former Nickel Plate Road depot area) Arrive: 1:00 p.m. EDT | Depart: 1:30 p.m. EDT

Northeast Ohio railfans get another chance to see the Big Boy up close. Note that Conneaut earlier that morning is a no public access service/overnight stop.

Tuesday, July 14 – Fostoria, Ohio Public Display Day Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center 3101 North Township Road 47 On Display: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT only

This is the highlight for many Ohio fans. The locomotive will be on static public display for six hours with free admission and no tickets required. This is one of the few extended viewing opportunities on the entire eastern tour. No public access outside these hours or at the overnight location the night before (private Norfolk Southern employee event).

Wednesday, July 15 – Continental, Ohio Whistle Stop Near Oak and Main Streets Arrive: 11:30 a.m. EDT | Depart: 12:00 noon EDT

A return visit to the same northwest Ohio community the Big Boy passed through in June. Another great chance for photos and video.

Important Notes

All times and stops are subject to change. The Big Boy may operate ahead of or behind the published schedule.
There are no passenger excursions or cab rides available.
Always verify the latest information directly on the official Union Pacific Steam schedule page.

Viewing Tips & Safety

Whistle stops typically last 15–30 minutes. Crowds can be large, so arrive early for good viewing positions and parking. At the Fostoria display, you’ll have more time to walk around (within designated safe areas) and take photos.

Union Pacific Safety Guidelines (follow these strictly):

Stay at least 25 feet back from all tracks.
Railroad property is private — do not trespass.
Never assume tracks are inactive.
Drones are restricted near the train and tracks.
Be aware of uneven ground at display sites.
Do not pace or chase the train in vehicles.

Local law enforcement and rail safety personnel will be present at major stops.

A Living Piece of American History

Seeing Big Boy 4014 in Ohio is more than just watching a train — it’s witnessing the largest steam locomotive ever built thundering through communities that helped build America’s rail network. Whether you catch it at a quick whistle stop in Struthers or spend hours at the Fostoria display, these moments connect us directly to the golden age of steam and the ongoing story of American railroading.

For the most up-to-date schedule, photos, and safety information, visit: https://www.up.com/about-us/history/steam/schedule

Related Articles