America 250 at the B&O Railroad Museum

Celebrating America through the Stories of the Railroad

America 250 at the B&O is a yearlong series of programs, exhibitions, and events in honor of the 250^th anniversary of America. At the B&O, we are celebrating the rich history of the railroad, this country, and the railroad’s enduring impact on U.S. technology, good and ideas.

The centerpiece of this celebration includes the unveiling of the American Freedom Train No. 1 (AFT No. 1), newly restored to its AFT paint scheme for the anniversary. The AFT No. 1 is one of three locomotives that pulled the American Freedom Train of 1975–1976, a traveling Bicentennial exhibition that carried more than 500 pieces of Americana, including George Washington’s copy of the Constitution, Benjamin Franklin’s handwritten draft of the Articles of Confederation, the original Louisiana Purchase, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s pulpit, Judy Garland’s dress from The Wizard of Oz, and even a lunar rover.

The cosmetic restoration of this iconic locomotive—an enduring symbol of unity and patriotism from the 1975/76 U.S. Bicentennial—is the Museum’s gift to the nation as it celebrates its semi quincentennial.

America 250 at the B&O

AFT No. 1 Unveiling

Mon, January 12, 2026 @ 1 PM

Experience the newly restored American Freedom Train (AFT) No. 1—a powerful symbol of American pride, unity, and ingenuity.

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B&O Unlocked: AFT No. 1

January 24, 25, & 28, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM

Now beautifully restored, the AFT No. 1 stands ready once again to inspire all who believe in the enduring spirit of freedom and progress. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to step inside the cab!

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American Freedom Tour

February 7, 14, 21, & 28, 2026 @ 10:30 AM

Discover the powerful intersection of American history and the rise of railroading. Uncover how the railroad opened the door to freedom: freedom to prosper, freedom to explore, and freedom to pursue a new life.

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Side view of the restored luxury observation tavern car B&O No. 3316

B&O Unlocked: B&O No. 3316

February 25, 28, & March 1, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM

In honor of Black History Month, we are unveiling the newly restored B&O No. 3316 observation lounge car!

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Spring Break S.T.E.A.M. Week

March 30-April 3, 2026

Celebrate the inventors and engineers who helped build America through a hands-on week full of trains, experiments, and fun.

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B&O Unlocked: AFT No. 1

July 4, 5, 18, & 19, 2026

We are re-unlocking the AFT No.1 in honor of Independence Day! The cosmetically restored “T-Hog” was just placed on display in January of this year. If you missed your chance to see it then, now is the time to check it out!

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