Free Returns & Exchanges

Use code BF25OFF for 25% off

Top Rated US Experience Gift Company

e-Gifts Delivered Instantly

Roundhouse and Backshop History Tour

Fort Bragg, California

Roundhouse and Backshop History Tour

Fort Bragg, California

Duration: 1 hour

Overview

Step back in time with the Roundhouse and Backshop History Tour, a captivating journey through the evolution of locomotive technology housed in a historically restored engine house. This unique tour showcases the transition from steam to diesel engines, offering an authentic glimpse into the railroad's storied past, perfect for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

🚂 Explore the history and evolution of steam and diesel locomotives

🛠 Discover the original functions and recent restoration of the engine house

📜 Learn about the engine house’s pivotal role in the railroad industry's history

🏗 View authentic machinery and technology from the mid-20th century

Availability

When do I choose a date?

After purchase, you can request your preferred dates and times by following the instructions in the email you receive. If it's a gift, the recipient will also get an email with booking instructions.

Year-Round,
Saturdays 1:00pm

Full description

The Roundhouse and Backshop History Tour offers an in-depth look into the history of California Western’s steam and diesel locomotives, housed in an engine house originally built from old-growth redwood. After being rebuilt following a fire in the early 1900s, this structure has played a crucial role in the maintenance and servicing of the railroad's fleet, transitioning from steam to diesel engines over the years.

The tour delves into the engine house's adaptation to new technologies and its decline and subsequent restoration to preserve its historical value. Visitors will explore the rehabilitated building, now a living museum that showcases the evolution of locomotive technology and maintenance practices. The restoration process focused on authenticity, repairing or replacing features like windows, roofs, and doors to their original mid-20th-century condition. This tour not only educates visitors about the technical aspects of railroad operations but also brings to life a key piece of railroad history, making it an engaging experience for anyone interested in the legacy of rail transportation.

Practical information

Any restrictions to participate?

Age: All age groups are welcome
Physical limitations: Guests must be able to walk moderate distances and navigate uneven footing.

Who can you accommodate for?

Children: Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Pets: Sorry, no pets allowed.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

Duration: 1 hour
What’s included: Friendly guide and tour of The Roundhouse.
Who will be present: The tour guide will be with you at all times as well as up to 20 total participants.
Spectators: No spectators are allowed, everyone must have a reservation.
Photo/ video: Photos and video are encouraged!

How to prepare?

Weather dependency: Rain or shine, the experience will be running.
Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes in advance.
Parking: There is parking available at the train depot.
What to wear: Comfortable and casual layered clothing is suggested to keep warm in the chilly months. Closed toe shoes are required.
What to bring: A picture ID that matches the name on your reservation.
Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: No lockers or changing rooms, but there are restrooms available at the train depot.

Returns, exchanges and cancellation

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 30 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 72 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 72 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.

Duration: 1 hour

$52

You save $-52

Includes all fees & taxes

Currently unavailable

Try checking back another time or browse some of our other products

Buy Now

Payment methods

Buy now, pay over time with

How it works

Find the perfect gift experience

Receive a voucher that never expires

Choose your preferred date & time

Make new memories!

Here's what others have to say!

Based on 0 reviews

Ella E.

Exploring the engine house provided a unique educational experience, highlighting the transition from steam to diesel engines with engaging storytelling.

Jackson D.

This immersive journey through railroad history captivated my interest, blending technical insights with the preservation of a significant historical site.

Zoe C.

The tour offered a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of locomotive technology, set against the backdrop of meticulously restored historical settings.