South Coast Railroad Museum

Open

Closed

$

$

โ€ข

Goleta

โ€ข

counter-service

4.6
Historic depot museum in Goleta showcasing railroading history with exhibits and short train rides around the grounds.

$

$

โ€ข

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โ€ข

counter-service

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๐Ÿ“

South Coast Railroad Museum

Goleta

$

Explore railroading history and enjoy mini train rides at the South Coast Railroad Museum in Goleta. Perfect for families and train enthusiasts.

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About
4.6
(
130
)

The South Coast Railroad Museum features a historic train depot and exhibits highlighting the history and technology of railroading. Visitors can enjoy short rides on a miniature train, explore garden paths, a petting zoo, and interactive displays that captivate both children and adults.

What to Expect:

    ๐Ÿš‚ Mini train rides around the museum grounds
    ๐Ÿ“š Rich railroad history exhibits and displays
    ๐Ÿ Petting zoo and picnic areas nearby
    ๐ŸŽ Gift shop and onsite tours available

Important Information:

    โ€“ Admission fee applies for train rides, children often free
    โ€“ Open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM
    โ€“ Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms
    โ€“ Friendly volunteer staff and family-friendly environment

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๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿš‚ Rail Fans Delight: The miniature train ride offers a surprisingly long and enjoyable tour around the property, popular with kids.

๐Ÿ Petting Zoo Perk: Check out the petting zoo and the friendly goats, a hit especially with young visitors.

๐ŸŒณ Picnic Opportunities: The grounds include picnic tables in a sheltered grove, ideal for bringing lunch and relaxing outdoors.

๐ŸŽ‰ Event Venue: The museum hosts memorable birthday parties with interactive setups and personalized touches.

โฐ Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: Closed

Friday: Closed

Saturday: 12:00 PMโ€“4:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PMโ€“4:00 PM

๐Ÿ‘‰ Best For

Families, train enthusiasts, history buffs, educational visits

South Coast Railroad Museum

300 N Los Carneros Rd
,
Goleta
,
CA
93117

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise the museum's charm, engaging exhibits, and friendly volunteer staff. The train rides and petting zoo are popular family highlights. The limited weekend hours and occasional long waits for rides are noted but donโ€™t diminish the overall positive experience.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

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What You'll Find

Historic Depot; Miniature Train Rides; Outdoor Gardens; Petting Zoo; Picnic Tables; Gift Shop; Onsite Tours; Cafe; Restrooms; Wheelchair Accessible Entrance; Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot; Wheelchair Accessible Restroom; Free Parking Lot; On-Site Parking

๐Ÿ“† Best Times to Visit

Visit midday weekends between 12 PM and 4 PM for train rides and exhibits; lines form late morning and early afternoon; early arrival recommended on busy days.
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