About the Museum

Founded in 1960 and then moved to Phoenicia in 1983, The Empire State Railway Museum is open 10am-4pm, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. 

Curated tours of the historic Phoenicia Station, built in 1899, allow visitors to view the three interior rooms of the building. Enjoy the unique architecture of the Waiting Room with its framed artwork, photographs and artifacts on display. Step into the Agent’s Office and view the diorama with the HO-scaled layout of the Ulster & Delaware Railroad as it was in the early 1900s, plus several other dioramas and antique telegraph equipment. Lastly, visit the Freight Room which holds the Museum Gift Shop with items for all ages including books, t-shirts, sweat shirts, toys, hats, etc. along with more artifacts and photographs.

Since the Museum is maintained by memberships, donations, and the hard work of volunteers, we ask that you leave a donation in support of our efforts. No other fee is required.

Group and bus tours are available by appointment throughout the week and includes access into the car barn which houses full-size railroad equipment in various stages of restoration including our Steam Locomotive #23.