Things That Go

Kim and Elijah took a day trip to Roanoke's Virginia Museum of Transportation, an excellent toddler site! Elijah loved the museum's noted model railway exhibit. The exhibit, which includes viewing windows at toddler eye height, can also be viewed from the museum's upper deck, adding to the thrill. There's a train engine to climb inside on the interior of the museum, and on a warmer day, one can opt to go outside to the railyard for more stock to see up close, including the famous 611 steam engine. Visitors older than Elijah will also appreciate the attention to the human side of railroading, as rail travel passes and personal stories are also displayed.

The automotive gallery was new to us and impressive, particularly for its inclusion of vintage signage. There's even a set of Burma Shave roadside signs! Around the holidays, the museum boasts lovely Christmas trim, a nice addition. Unfortunately, the aviation gallery remains closed from last winter's storms, but you can still take in the delightfully detailed circus train display and the infamous rocket.

We were inspired to purchase a grandparent's membership to allow infinite visits for Elijah. If you go, remember to park very near the museum building to avoid a fee and consider coupling your visit with a trip to the wonderful O. Winston Link rail photography museum. A visitor from farther afield with an interest in the rails could make a nice weekend in the area with trips to see Roanoke's rail heritage as well as similar sites in Clifton Forge, Virginia.

Related Link:
Virginia Museum of Transportation