Conductor operating an antique locomotive - maroon overlay

Preserving, Educating, & Celebrating

Portland's historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts.

Saturday Train Rides

From April through October, we offer train rides along the east bank of the scenic Willamette River.

Rivets on an antique train locomotive - maroon overlay

The Turntable Project

ORHF has acquired the last remaining historic element of the Brooklyn Roundhouse – a 102’ turntable built in 1924 by the American Bridge Company. Railroads and rail yards have depended on turntables since the early 1900’s to rotate locomotives & railcars from one track to another. Over the next year, the Foundation will be refurbishing and installing this vintage piece of rail history at our Center on Southeast Water Avenue in Portland.


Train Time the Documentary

Climb aboard for the biggest adventure on wheels! Showing at OMSI’s Empirical Theater, Stephen Low’s documentary Train Time propels audiences through the rugged beauty and vastness of the American landscape. Join the crew of a giant freight train for an eye-popping, music-infused journey across America, featuring the iconic Southern Pacific 4449 locomotive. Advance tickets are …


Volunteer Spotlight – Linda Johnston

It began with a train ride on Mother’s Day in 2022. Linda’s visit to the Enginehouse prompted her to inquire about volunteering here. She was fast-tracked through the volunteer process and is now one of our valued greeters. A lover of trains her entire life, Linda is delighted to have seen the Freedom Train in …


Volunteer Spotlight – John Pohlpeter

John Pohlpeter can be seen at the Enginehouse most Wednesdays, and many other days as well. A fireman on the SP 4449 crew, John also works on the Polson #2 during Holiday Express. He is passionate about the Center and the locomotives and is always one of the first to jump in when help of …

With your help, ORHF has done wonders.

Your generous donations help keep the Oregon Rail Heritage Center free to everyone. We thank you sincerely and so do all the kids of all ages that love trains.