If you’re a fan of planes, trains, and automobiles (boats, too!) then you should come to Kirkwood, MO and explore all 42 acres of the National Museum of Transportation!
The National Museum of Transportation (NMOT) is a private museum dedicated to the preserving the history of transportation vehicles. The collection is displayed in more than 190 exhibits over 42 acres and includes over 70 locomotives, 200 road vehicles, two planes, and a tugboat!
The museum’s collection started in 1944 with a mule-drawn streetcar named “Bellefontaine” and continues to grow. The grounds use more than four miles of historic track to display and move the collection.
Those among you with a sharp eye will will note that 2019 marks The National Museum of Transportation’s 75th birthday. A variety of special events are planned to celebrate this event throughout the year.
Trains at the NMOT
The National Museum of Transportation has one of the most complete American locomotive collections around. Over half of the collection represents either a “one-of-a-kind” or is the last remaining example of that type.
Two such highlights include the world’s largest steam locomotive, the Union Pacific #4006 Big Boy, and “The Whale,” an 1833 B&B&PR Passenger Coach – the largest tank car ever built. Many, many other unique trains are on the premises. The collection also includes freight cars, passenger cars, maintenance cars, and interurban and city transit vehicles, such as streetcars and trolleys.
There’s even a full-scale miniature railroad on the grounds, plus a restored, full-sized trolley you can ride in spring and summer.
Automobiles and More
The National Museum of Transportation’s auto and road vehicle holdings are also extensive, with more than 200 different vehicles in the collection Come see the one of a kind, 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car, the Bobby Darin “Dream Car,” and one of only 9 still existing 1901 St. Louis Motor Carriage Company automobiles.
The NMOT collection also includes a Douglas Aircraft C-47A, a Lockheed T-33, and the HT Potts Tugboat. The museum’s collection is ever growing – you never know what you’ll find during your visit!
National Museum of Transportation
2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122
Hours vary by season. Visit transportmuseumassociation.org for current information on times, special events, and more.
Missouri Lodging
Whether you’re in Missouri on business or just here to see some trains, you’ll want some place comfortable to rest your head. When it comes to accommodations, look no farther than a locally owned and operated Missouri B&B. Some of the best lodging in the state is found at Missouri Inns and B&B’s. Book your stay at a Missouri Bed and Breakfast today!