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Shedd Aquarium

Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum

111 East Myrtle Street, Elizabeth, IL 61028

Museums

The Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum invites you to explore the rich railroad history of Northwest Illinois.

Step into railroading’s golden age at the Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum, housed in the charming 1877–78 Stick-style depot and caboose in Elizabeth, Illinois. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the venue welcomes visitors on weekends from May to October. Inside, explore thousands of artifacts, working model-railroad layouts in N, HO, and G scales, a full-size Milwaukee Road caboose, and a film that highlights northwestern Illinois’ rail history.

“This was such a fun stop for the family, so many trains and artifacts, the kids and I loved it!” - Brianne R.

A must-visit for steam-engine enthusiasts, families, and heritage travellers alike, this museum offers a nostalgic ride into the region’s rail past and a perfect stop in Galena Country.

Open weekends from 11 AM to 3 PM, May through October.

Tour Length: 30 Minutes. Group Attendee Capacity: 45 People.

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More Information

  • Mon: Closed
  • Tue: Closed
  • Wed: Closed
  • Thu: Closed
  • Fri: Closed
  • Sat: 11:00am – 3:00pm
  • Sun: 11:00am – 3:00pm

Holiday Hours:
Weekdays are by appointment by messaging the museum via Facebook.

Open to the public on weekends from 11 AM to 3 PM, May through October.
By appointment only during the week.

How to find us?

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