Evolution of the Train & Trolley, from Beginning to Caboose

Train buffs, history enthusiasts and families will love discovering the rich railroad heritage in the Northern Fox River Valley. Explore the Fox River Trolley Museum and the Illinois Railway Museum, and choose from a range of entertainment options, from sports, to the arts.

Please contact the Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to check on availability and rates for your group.

Day One

Today arrive in the area and check into one of our many comfortable and affordable hotels in the area. The perfect place to begin your visit is by enjoying a fun lunch at The Walnut Speakeasy. Sophisticated yet casual atmosphere, the Walnut Speakeasy has a full menu with an impressive beer list, food served till midnight. Watch a game on our 18 HDTV’s. Live Blues/Jazz on Saturday evenings.

We return to the grand, bygone era of the trolley car during a visit to the Fox River Trolley Museum, one of the only trolley museums in North America. Nestled in a beautifully remote and secluded forest preserve, you enjoy relaxing and scenic ride through the preserve inside a magnificently restored trolley car. Once at the museum we are treated to a fascinating glimpse of the trolley’s history, provided by one of the many knowledgeable historians available at the museum.

Dinner tonight will be at The Hickory Stick Bar & Grille. Belly up to the bar or relax by the fireplace as you enjoy a delicious dinner with a beautiful view.

Afternoon/Evening Entertainment Options (Contact the Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for schedules or performances. Transportation may need to be provided):

  • Arlington Park *
  • Arts in Bartlett Center for the Arts
  • Azoosment Park at Santa’s Village
  • Children’s Theatre of Elgin
  • Donley’s Wild West Town
  • Elgin Area Historical Society
  • Elgin ArtSpace
  • Elgin Children’s Chorus
  • Elgin Community College – Visual and Performing Arts Center*
  • Elgin Fire Barn no. 5 Museum
  • Elgin National Watch Company Observatory
  • Elgin Public Museum
  • Elgin Sports Complex*
  • Elgin Symphony Orchestra*
  • Elgin Theatre Company
  • Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra*
  • Gail Borden Library
  • Grand Victoria Casino
  • Leafs Ice Centre*
  • The Hemmens Cultural Center*
  • Sears Centre Arena
  • Side Street Studio Arts
  • Trout Park Baseball*

Day Two

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Manor Restaurant and Pancake House, an institution in East Dundee specializing in delicious home-cooked breakfast meals of eggs, pancakes, waffles and toast.

After breakfast, your group is transferred to what is sure to be the highlight of their tour, the Illinois Railway Museum. This unique museum offers the train buff a rare and up close view of the majestic train engines of the past, while they are escorted through the massive grounds by a well-informed docent of the museum. Sure to be a dream for any train enthusiast!

Before departing for home, treat yourself to a delicious stop for pizza at Village Pizza, home of the double decker pizza and famous for our thin crispy crust.

*Attractions depend on time of season and schedules.