Thanks to the Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, Illinois has its very own operating antique train. Head over to Freeport to enjoy a fun, educational day at the Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad!
Founded in 1982, the nonprofit provides visitors with hands on learning experiences.
Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad/Facebook
They maintain railcars and railroad equipment in order to preserve our country’s railroad heritage.
Stephenson County Antique Engine Club
The friendly crew will take you on a 3.4-mile trip on a 1912 steam locomotive.
Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad/Facebook
Spend a bit more for the opportunity to ride in the cab with the engineer!
Dale Roberts/Facebook
If you’re lucky, they might even let you help shovel coal to keep the train going.
Stephenson County Antique Engine Club
The train ride isn’t the only attraction, though - the club also has a museum of railcars, equipment, and other pieces of railroad history.
Stephenson County Antique Engine Club
If you’re nearby in October, the train ride turns into the Train of Terror, a haunted Halloween experience.
Stephenson County Antique Engine Club
But, no matter the time of year, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this unique attraction.
Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad/Facebook
Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad is located at 2954 S. Walnut Road in Freeport.
Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad/Facebook
Stephenson County Antique Engine Club
Dale Roberts/Facebook
Are you a train lover or a history buff? If so, you’ll love this place! Let us know what you think in the comments.
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