Set in the beautiful, grassy foothills next to Lake Los Carneros, Goleta’s famed South Coast Railroad Museum teaches visitors about California’s expansive railroading history and the evolution of railway technology. The museum explores how the Southern Pacific Railroad played an integral role in rural community life across America. Visitors will have ample opportunities to explore the historic grounds and learn about the significance of the railway system.
Please note that train rides are currently paused until further notice.
Goleta Depot
Goleta Depot, a country railroad station house that was built by the Southern Pacific in 1901, is the museum’s central attraction. The depot was built during the completion of the Coast Route, which joined San Francisco and Los Angeles—an important step forward in railway transportation in the early 20th century. Goleta Depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Train Tickets & Museum Admission
South Coast Railroad Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Admission to the museum is free. Rental packages are available for meetings, birthday parties, picnics and other private events.
Directions & Parking
Driving from the south, take Highway 101 North to exit 107 for Los Carneros Road. Turn right on N Los Carneros Road and the Railroad Museum will be on your right in 0.3 miles. Driving from the North, take Highway 101 South to exit 107 for Los Carneros Road toward Glen Annie Road/Storke Road. Turn left onto N Los Carneros Road and at the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on N Los Carneros Road. The Railroad Museum will be on the right. Parking is available on site.
Volunteer Opportunities at South Coast Railroad Museum
For those with a special interest in railways and national parks, the Trails and Rails program is a partnership between the National Parks Service and Amtrak. The South Coast Railroad Museum trains and coordinates Trails and Rails volunteers to assist in teaching Amtrak passengers about the historical significance of the railways along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, between Santa Barbara and San Jose. Learn more about this unique and educational volunteering experience here.