Steam Engineer Experience Tickets General Admission Tickets
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be the engineer on a real steam engine, join us at the Illinois Railway Museum on September 13 and 14, 2025 for the Steam Engineer Experience. Sign up for a time slot to run our Shay 5 steam locomotive and you’ll enjoy the unforgettable experience of being at the throttle of a full-sized steam locomotive. This event is open to anyone 18+.
Our volunteers will give you a quick safety and informational orientation and then you’ll be on your way – under supervision, of course. The Shay will be staged for boarding on the West Wye. The Shay will run from the West Wye to Jefferson St. You’ll have 25 minutes of throttle time. The engine will be “running light” and will not be pulling a train. A Museum photographer will document your experience, and you’ll receive digital photographs for free as part of the package. You’ll also get a complimentary souvenir Shay 5 Take the Throttle hat.
Steam Engineer Experience Policies & Requirements
The price of the Steam Engineer Experience is $275. Steam Engineer Experience tickets are sold exclusively online and are not available by phone. All participants must be 18 years of age or older and must bring a state-issued photo ID with them. Participants must arrive at the museum gate at least one hour in advance of their time slot (registration for the Steam Engineer Experience DOES NOT include general admission). General Admission tickets must be purchased separately unless you are already a member of the museum. Participants must wear jeans/denim pants (denim overalls are recommended but not required) and closed-toe shoes or boots with a defined heel. IRM will provide additional PPE including safety glasses, work gloves, and hearing protection, which must be worn while running the engine. In the event Shay 5 is unavailable due to mechanical or other reasons, participants will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a partial refund and running a diesel locomotive instead.
Hours / Admission / Operating Schedule Information:
Electric and steam or diesel trains will be operating. Trains depart from the East Union Depot at 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, and 4:00pm. Streetcar service is continuous between 11:00am and 4:00pm.
Museum Hours:
10:00AM to 5:00PM (Last train 4:00PM)
Admission Rates:
Adults $20.00, Seniors and Youths $18.00, Children $16.00
A list of equipment scheduled to operate on Saturday is here
A list of equipment scheduled to operate on Sunday is here
All equipment, schedules and prices subject to change without notice.
