"Iron War Horses: B&O’s Support of American Troops Abroad" Public Tour - National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation

Public Tour

Railroads have historically played a critical role in mobilizing government efforts during wartime to facilitate the national movement of troops, weapons, and supplies rapidly and efficiently across the nation.

Explore the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s involvement in global conflicts like the Civil War, World War I, and World War II on this engaging and exciting tour of our historic collection.  

Admission:

Included with Museum Admission. Museum Members FREE.


America 250 at the Museum

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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Black History Month: Unveiling Celebration for the B&O No. 3316

February 21 @ 11 AM

In celebration of Black History Month, the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation unveils the newly restored Baltimore & Ohio Railroad No. 3316 “Washington,” a 1949 observation tavern car that represents the height of luxury rail travel and honors the African American railroad workers—especially Pullman Porters—who made that experience possible.

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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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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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Summer S.T.E.A.M. Week

August 17-21, 2026

Celebrate the inventors and engineers who helped build America! Explore the science, stories, and cool inventions that powered America’s railroads.

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American Freedom Tour

September 5, 6, & 7, 2026 @ 10 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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Story Time & Make Your Own Maryland Flag

May 25 @10:30 AM

Enjoy a read aloud of Jackrabbit McCabe and the Electric Telegraph by Lucy Margaret Rozier. Afterwards, color your own Maryland flag!

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"The War Came by Train" Civil War Tour

May 25 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

On this tour we will uncover the story behind the first-time trains were used in warfare: the American Civil War.

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Morse Code Workshop

May 25 @ 10 AM- 4 PM

Learn about the connection between Samuel Morse’s telegraph and the B&O. Next, decode your own name in Morse Code and create a bracelet.

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Paper Flashlight Workshop

May 25 @ 10 AM- 4 PM

Learn to communicate in Morse Code using paper flashlights! Participants will learn about how circuits and polarity work during this activity.

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Logo for the Underground Railroad exhibit. Subtext says: Freedom Seekers on the B&O Railroad. Next to the words Underground Railroad, there is a hand holding a light by the handle.

"The Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O" Public Tour

June 19 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

On this tour we will explore the history of the Underground Railroad using experiences of 27 documented freedom seekers who have interacted with the B&O Railroad on their journey to freedom.

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"Working on the Railroad: The B&O and the Labor Movement" Public Tour

September 7 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

This tour will explore the unique history of working for the railroad in America and the evolution of worker rights from the 19th to the 20th centuries, with particular focus on the employees of the B&O Railroad.

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"Maryland on the Rails: The B&O's Contribution to Maryland History" Public Tour

October 12 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

This tour will examine how Maryland before 1827 became an ideal location for the B&O Railroad and as a result how the B&O Railroad has continued to contribute to the robust history of the state of Maryland.

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"Iron War Horses: B&O's Support of American Troops Abroad" Public Tour

November 11 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

Explore the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s involvement in global conflicts like the Civil War, World War I, and World War II on this engaging and exciting tour of our historic collection.

Learn More

Upcoming Events at the B&O

WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM: 

“I had no idea camps like this existed! It was truly inclusive, the counselors were accepting, kind and patient. It was incredibly affordable and very well organized. I can't say enough great things about it. I am very grateful!”

2024

2024

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