Railroad Enthusiasts Find a Gem in Portland, Maine

The city of Portland, Maine is a fascinating place to visit. It is an eclectic city that has everything from a thriving art and music community to a gorgeous New England seaport. It also offers the train enthusiast a must-see attraction called the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum.

So what exactly is a “narrow gauge railroad” and why does it belong in Portland, Maine? Here is how the museum’s website describes it…

Have you discovered this unique part of Maine’s rich history? These 2-foot gauge steam trains connected rural Maine with the rest of the world from 1879 until just before World War II. Shipping everything from passengers, farming goods, and lumber, these diminutive steam-powered trains served to strengthen Maine’s infrastructure and communication as a great improvement from the days of the rather impractical and weather-reliant horse-drawn buggy. The reign of the 2-footers thundering through Maine’s countryside lasted until the dawning of the modern era of paved roads, trucks, and private automobiles.

So after you taste the beer at the Shipyard Brewing Company, head down towards the water and find the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum. You can actually ride one of these trains and the track takes you right along the shoreline of this amazing city.

For more on our great railroad heritage check out Tracks and Taverns on the American Public House Review.