For a train enthusiast, there’s nothing better than spotting an engine chugging along its tracks. But it’s not very convenient to chase down moving trains. An easier – and just as satisfying – option is to visit a train-themed park where the only thing moving is you. Lucky for Minnesotans, such a park exists in the southwestern corner of our state. End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum lets visitors step back into a different era, when trains criss-crossed through Minnesota with small-town stops along the way. Take a look:
End-O-Line Railroad Park is located at 440 Mill Street in Currie, Minnesota. It’s about 170 miles, or 3 hours, southwest of the Twin Cities.
Suzanne E./Yelp
The park gets its name from its location. When a branch of the Chicago Northwestern Railroad crossed through the area, Currie was at the end of the line.
Suzanne E./Yelp
Because it was the end of the line, trains needed a way to turn around. A railroad turntable was built for that purpose in 1901. The same turntable is now at the park today - and it still works! It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
Of course, the park is also home to railroad tracks. Guests can walk the old train route. It’s definitely worth it to take in some of the beautiful scenery.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
The park’s steam engine is definitely a sight to behold. This one is from the Georgia Northern Railway. Another impressive train is the 141-year-old Baldwin locomotive. It was built in 1875!
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
There are also two cabooses, both from the 1940s. The Minneapolis and St. Louis Caboose has been restored on the inside and is open to guests. Sometimes, there are even special dinners hosted inside.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
But the railroad isn’t the only thing this park has to offer. It is set up to look like an historic 1800s town.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
The three white buildings pictured below are the first church in Murray County, the first school in Murray County, and a replica of the county’s first courthouse.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
The buildings are open to guests - and you should definitely step inside. It’s especially fun to imagine going to school in the one-room schoolhouse.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
Not far from the three main buildings, is a small red building. It’s the first general store in Murray County.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
After your step through history, you might want to see something a little more technologically advanced. A large model train exhibit sits inside the visitor center.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
Outside, a fun train-themed playground is great for kids to run around in.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
All in all, this train-themed park is great for a day trip. It’s open every Memorial Day through Labor Day.
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
Would you ever visit End-O-Line? Let us know what you think down below. And for more locomotive fun, check out our unforgettable train-themed road trip through Minnesota.
Suzanne E./Yelp
End O Line Railroad Park and Museum/Facebook
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