13 Places to Explore North Dakota's Railroad History

Railroad artifacts, railroad pictures, Railroad Hall of Fame, 5 acres with rolling stock and 3,000-square-foot railroad displays. 

Originally established in the 1980s as model railroading club, the Northern Lights Railroad Museum expanded its mission to preserve and interpret railroad history of the Northern Great Plains.

Discover Minot’s railroad history from 1886 to now at this downtown museum. Check out memorabilia, maps, photos, logs, records, and over 1000 ft of model train tracks on display.

The Rosebud is a Northern Pacific Railroad Superintendents Coach dating from 1881. The car was used by S. R. Ainslie, Superintendent of the Yellowstone Division. Rosebud was purchased in February 1932, by John P. Reeve for $550.

Museum showcasing two treasures in one: the Midland Continental Railroad and the home of music legend and North Dakota native, Peggy Lee. The Midland Continental was a short line railroad that operated between 1912 and 1970. The main floor of the building served as the depot, and this floor showcases the railroad's history.

A 2/5 scale of a Great Northern F-8 locomotive No. 1177 and four cars. *Rides no longer available until 2027.

Site preserves part of a military installation established as Camp Greeley in 1872 to provide protection for work gangs then building the Northern Pacific Railroad. The camp's name was changed to Camp Hancock in 1873. Northern Pacific engine and coal car on site.

On display is a 1903 old-time 440 Soo Line steam engine, which the town established roots for in 1857. Also on display is the Veteran's Memorial. 

This bridge was built over 100 years ago. It’s a stunning view along River Road. *After 140 years of dutiful service, the bridge is approaching the end of its useful life and will be replaced. BNSF Railway is building a new rail bridge adjacent to the existing bridge.

This 125-year-old bridge is an iconic landmark, originally built out of wood and then rebuilt in steel. Located just west of Minot, this is a must-see for railroad enthusiasts and photographers.

This is one of the longest and highest railroad bridges in America at 3,860 feet long and 162 feet high.

This structure stretches 1,320 feet across the Yellowstone River and has been turned into a walkway.