Take the Throttle
Ever dream of being a real train engineer?
At the Illinois Railway Museum, that dream can come true. Our Take The Throttle program will make you engineer for an hour.
Live the fantasy of every railfan: ring the bell, blow the horn, wave to the kids, and smile for the camera during this once-in-a-lifetime experience! As a student engineer or motorman you will have full control, under the careful supervision and instruction of IRM crewmen. Or, if you have a railfan in the family, give a birthday or holiday gift that will never be forgotten!
This unique opportunity is available for a donation of only $295 per person for diesel equipment. Electric equipment is available for a donation of $200 per person. Or treat yourself (or a friend or family member) to the ultimate railfan adventure: both diesel and electric! Space for this program is extremely limited, and advance reservations are essential: reserve your spot today, while space is still available. Take the Throttle is also available for a very limited number of dates [SOLD OUT for 2025] on a steam engine at $600.
The museum’s Take the Throttle program operates only on the following dates in 2025:
Saturday, June 14; Sunday, July 27; Saturday, August 16; and Sunday, September 28
Take the Throttle diesel trains depart at 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 12:45 PM, 2:15 PM, 3:15 PM, and 4:15 PM.
Take the Throttle electric trains depart at 11:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:45 PM, 3:45 PM, and 4:45 PM.
PLEASE NOTE: Each participant must be at least 18 years old and will be required to sign a liability waiver. Equipment will be selected by IRM. All operations are subject to cancellation or rescheduling for mechanical, operational, or safety reasons. Confirmation of the scheduled date will be provided by mail. Participants must arrive one hour in advance of their trip departure time.
Please contact us with any questions.