Turntable Demo | B&O Railroad Museum

See the technological marvel that is the B&O’s Roundhouse Turntable in action, rotated by the power of just one person.

Among the many hallmark features that make up the B&O Railroad Museum’s 1884 Baldwin Roundhouse is the 60-foot turntable in the center. When the Roundhouse serviced and repaired passenger cars, the turntable was used to position them throughout the Roundhouse’s 22 bays. Instead of electricity, it uses central ball bearings to rotate. When centered properly, a single person can push the turntable!

This turntable still functions today and you can see this technological marvel in action, featuring rolling stock from our collection!

Upcoming Turntable Demos:

May 30, 2026 @ 1 pm
September 19, 2026 @ 1 pm
October 17, 2026 @ 1 pm

Admission:

Program is included with regular Museum Admission. FREE for B&O Members.

Upcoming Events at the B&O

B&O Unlocked: Behind-the-scenes Tours

Sensory Sundays

Spring Break Scavenger Hunts

Railroad Safety Tour

Toddler Time

Day Out With Thomas

April 25-26 & May 2-3

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

March 30 – April 3

Learn More

Easter Weekend at the B&O

April 4 & 5 — Breakfast with the Easter Bunny & Egg Hunts!

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See the newly Restored B&O No. 3316 “Washington” Observation Tavern Car

Now on display in the Roundhouse

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See the newly Restored AFT-1

Now on display on Platform 2

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2025-2026

When school is out, fun is in session at the B&O!

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WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:

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.