October 6, 2025 | B&O Railroad Museum

Tails on the Rails’ Returns to the B&O with a New Twist: Contest for Breed-Specific Cars on Train Ride

Baltimore, MD  — It’s a Howl-oween Paw-ty at the B&O Railroad Museum’s beloved annual event, Tails on the Rails, returning Sunday, October 26, from 2 to 5 pm. This one-of-a-kind celebration invites guests to bring their four-legged friends for a spirited afternoon of Halloween fun, featuring costumes, a dog-friendly train ride, vendors, and more. 

This year, the Museum is reserving a special “Doodle Car” for doodles and doodle mixes aboard its Mile One Express Train Ride.

But why stop at doodles? The B&O is asking the public to vote on which otherbreeds or groups deserve a special reserved car on the train! Do you want a dedicated car for Golden Retrievers, a section just for rescue dogs, or maybe a spot for small breeds?

The public is invited to vote by commenting on the Museum’s social media channels or emailing their requests to marketing@borail.org. The deadline to cast your vote is Wednesday, October 22. The Museum will announce the winning “fan-favorite” breed or group on Thursday, October 23, across its Facebook and Instagram social media channels as to which other dogs or groups receive their own dedicated car. 

“The B&O Railroad Museum is for everyone including dogs, which is why we love Tails on Rails, celebrating the special bond between people and their pets,” said Kris Hoellen, Executive Director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “My dog, Gigi, will be there, and it’s always a fun day watching all the dogs – big and small – ride the train on the first mile of track! 

Event Highlights 

  • Pups & Pals Costume Contest Parade: Strut your stuff in coordinated or solo pet costumes for fun and prizes.
  • Train Ride to Carroll Park: Take a scenic ride aboard the Mile One Express—the only time dogs are allowed on the train!
  • Doodle Car on the Train: A car reserved exclusively for doodles and doodle mixes; more breed-specific cars may be added based on interest. All dogs are welcome!
  • Yappy Hour for Adults: Enjoy drinks and relaxation under the pavilion while your pups mingle.
  • Vendor Village: Shop from a variety of dog-friendly and local vendors.
  • Special Guests: Meet adoptable pets from BARCS and the Maryland SPCA.

Event Schedule 

  • 2 pm: Yappy Hour begins
  • 3 pm: Mile One Express departs for Carroll Park
  • 4 pm: Costume Contest Parade & continued festivities

Note: All dogs must remain on a leash at all times.

Tickets are $20 per person, or free for Museum members, and can be purchased/reserved at borail.org. The B&O Railroad Museum is located at 901 W. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD. The Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. Free, secure parking is available on site. 

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About the B&O Railroad Museum

The B&O Railroad Museum, located in Baltimore, Md., is the birthplace of American railroading. The Museum is a full affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and was also designated a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site by the National Park Service. It is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of American railroading and its impact on American society, culture, and economy. The Museum is home to the oldest, most comprehensive collection of railroad artifacts in the Western Hemisphere, including an unparalleled roster of 19th and 20th century railroad equipment, the 1851 Mt. Clare Station, the 1884 Baldwin Roundhouse and the first mile of commercial railroad track in America. The Museum welcomes guests from all 50 states and 40 countries every year. For more information, please call 410- 752-2490 or visit www.BORail.org.

Media Contact:  

Stephanie Jayakanthan 
B & O Railroad Museum 
sjayakanthan@borail.org
520-233-3947

Jeffery O.
December 2024

Wonderful rail museum with many historic engines, passenger cars, mail car, troop transport, and more. Several models layouts including the Smithsonian collection of models which was amazing. Wonderful presentation on the underground railroad. We will visit again.

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