The MARR boasts a comprehensive collection representing the railroad history of almost every part of the U.S. Located about 15 miles north of Dallas in Frisco, Tex., the MARR has long-term plans to construct a replica roundhouse and a shop complex on its grounds. In 2018, the MARR opened TrainTopia, a 3,000-square-foot model railroad display.
Choices
Visitors have two visiting options: TrainTopia and indoor exhibits at the Frisco Discovery Center (8004 N. Dallas Pkwy., Frisco) or, weather permitting, guided walking tours of the locomotives and rolling stock. Walking tour participants are advised to bring water and be mindful of the heat. Check the museum’s website for current tour offerings.
When to go
The Frisco Discovery Center is open Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. Walking tours are offered Wednesday- Friday at 10 a.m. and noon, and Saturdays at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m., weather permitting.
Good to know
Steam aficionados can’t miss the Union Pacific No. 4018, a Big Boy, and the Frisco No. 4501. Look for Santa Fe No. 59L, one of only two Alco PAs surviving in the U.S. The collection also features a large roster of heavyweight pre-WWII passenger cars.
Worth doing
Consider visiting the Texas Sculpture Garden, the Sci-Tech Discovery Center, and the National Videogame Museum. Sports fans can catch the Frisco Rough Riders playing minor league baseball at Riders Field.
Don’t miss
For a vintage train ride, visit the Grapevine Railroad, 30 miles southwest of Frisco.
Getting there
From the south of Dallas, take the Dallas North Tollway north. From north of Dallas, take State Route 380 to the Dallas North Tollway and head south.
Location: 8004 North Dallas Parkway, Frisco, TX
Phone: 214-428-0101
Website: historictrains.org
E-mail: kmurphy@historictrains.org
