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Florida Railroad Museums: A Complete Guide

Published: April 17, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Florida, a state famed for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and fascinating history, also boasts a rich railroad heritage that enthusiasts and the curious alike can explore. This guide takes you on a journey through some of Florida’s most notable railroad museums, where past meets present and the sound of a train whistle is a gateway to exploration and nostalgia.

Boca Express Train Museum

The Boca Express Train Museum, operated by the Boca Raton Historical Society, is based in Boca Raton, Florida within the town's former Florida East Coast depot, a stucco facility originally completed in 1929 and designed by architect Chester G. Henninger.

It also features an addition finished in 1957. On the grounds is a small collection of equipment as well as indoor displays.

Their most interesting pieces include a dining and lounge car built by the Budd Company for the Seaboard Air Line in 1947 as well as an Atlantic Coast Line caboose.

Finally, a preserved steam locomotive is also on display; 0-6-0T #69 manufactured for Duquesne Slag Products by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1930 (now listed as #12). The historical society does require admission; please visit their website for opening hours and pricing.

Central Florida Railroad Museum

Located in Winter Garden and operated by the Central Florida Railway Historical Society this museum is housed inside the restored 1913 stucco depot originally built for the Tavares & Gulf Railroad, which became a future component of Seaboard Air Line.

The museum officially opened during a grand ceremony held on May 21, 1983 following the society's purchase of the building on October 22, 1979 from, what was then, the Seaboard Coast Line. 

The group states their primary mission "...is committed to the collection and preservation of railroad history, with a special focus on Central Florida, and the restoration and exhibition of railroad memorabilia for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations." 

Learn more about the local rail history as well as peruse a few displays on hand.  The museum states it is open throughout much of the year, except on select holidays, from 1 PM to 5 PM.

Flagler Museum

The Flagler Museum, based in Palm Beach, is situated within Henry M. Flagler's gorgeous estates in Palm Beach known as "Whitehall." 

It was completed in 1902.  The organization states their primary mission is to tell the history of Florida's development thanks to the efforts of Henry Flagler. 

His Florida East Coast Railway is often not recognized for the very important role it played in Florida's development into the tourism mecca for which it is known today. 

This railroad single-handedly established popular vacation spots like New Smyrna Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. 

These cities would never have grown into the popular, worldwide attractions for which they are now known if it were not for Flagler and the FEC.  The museum is open throughout the year except on major holidays.  Or, if you become a member you can visit at no charge.

Railroad Museum of South Florida

This often forgotten facility is located in Fort Myers, featuring a small collection of equipment and interpretive displays. 

Their more noteworthy pieces include Atlantic Coast Line 0-6-0 #143 (manufactured by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1905) and a caboose built for the Seaboard Air Line in 1953. 

In addition, be sure and catch a train ride on their miniature, 1/8th-scale railroad. 

It operates roughly 1-mile through:

"...a fully operational grade crossing, a 100’ tunnel (with lights and sound), by a waterfall, past a windmill, over a twenty-foot trestle, and a twenty-foot pedestrian bridge.

Along the way, the train passes numerous scale sized buildings that make up the villages along the route, many providing historical perspective in depicting local Southwest Florida communities as they were circa 1950." 

The museum is open throughout much of the year and has a gift shop available.

West Florida Railroad Museum, Milton

Housed in the historic 1909 L&N Milton combination freight and passenger depot, the West Florida Railroad Museum presents a comprehensive look at the history of railroading in the western part of the state.

The museum boasts an array of exhibits ranging from memorabilia and local history artifacts to rolling stock, including a unique Pullman sleeper. The site features a model train layout, outdoor rolling stock displays, and hosts local events and educational programs throughout the year.

Plant City Union Station Depot and Museum

Nestled in the heart of downtown Plant City, this historic depot was originally built in 1909. The Plant City Union Station Depot and Museum offers visitors a chance to delve into the local history of the Plant City area.

The museum features regional railroad artifacts, informative exhibits, and a collection of railway photographs. It provides a true sense of history and community, making it a perfect destination for those interested in the interconnection between the railroad and the development of regional town

Florida’s railroad museums serve as both caretakers of history and educators for the community. They ensure that the powerful symbol of the railroad remains accessible and engaging for all generations.

Each museum offers a unique experience, where rail lovers and history buffs can step back in time and appreciate the technical and historical marvels of the railroads. Whether you're riding the rails or strolling through artifacts of the past, Florida's railroad museums promise an unforgettable connection to the past and the opportunity to discover this important aspect of cultural heritage.