North Dakota’s history is widely centered around the railroad. A vast majority of each major city and small town was founded when the railroad reached the next point in its journey west. The power of trains is still essential in the Peace Garden State. They haul oil, coal, grain, and many other loads of the state’s resources.

Needless to say, trains are a big deal here. So it’s not surprising that there are places in ND where you can explore the history – past and present – of trains yourself, including in this awesome train park and museum in Mandan, ND. Take a look:

Explore North Dakota’s train history at the North Dakota State Railroad Museum.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

This huge museum and grounds has historic buildings and train depots that will take you back in time to various places and times of the past.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

It also has five acres of rolling stock - trains everywhere!

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

These trains are great views into the industry that helped form North Dakota to be what it is today, but trains isn’t the only thing this museum has.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

The North Dakota State Railroad Museum has everything relating to trains, too. Check out this old railroad express car:

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

There is also plenty of indoor space full of artifacts and antiques from when the old days, in just about every form you could think of.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

They even have the cutest miniature train set ups with to-scale replicas of Mandan and the kind of trains that went through it and where to. Awesome!

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

Whether you are a train love, history buff, or just want an afternoon of fun, this train park is a must visit.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

And you can check it out during summer entirely for free.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

The North Dakota State Railroad Museum is located at 3102 37th St NW, Mandan, ND 58554. For hours, seasons, and more information, click here.

North Dakota State Railroad Museum/Facebook

If you want to explore more of the Peace Garden State’s history, why not check out this museum? It also has free admission!

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