Exporail - The Canadian Railway Museum
Discover the fascinating history of railroads at the Canadian Railway Museum
The Canadian Railway Museum, usually referred to as Exporail, is loaded with exhibits showcasing the history of the railroad both in Canada and internationally. It is owned by the Canadian Railroad Historical Association. The Canadian Railway Museum was founded in 1961 with the mission of purchasing vehicles, artifacts and documents that can be used to trace the progress of Canada's railways. The museum is located near the very first railroad in Canada and has succeeded in preserving the history of Canada's railways. It is one of the largest collections in the world of its kind.
Exporail features both permanent and temporary exhibits that will captivate visitors from every age group. There are guided tours available for those who wish to be shown the highlights of the Canadian railway history. The museum also provides a range of educational activities and conferences to further educate those who wish to learn more about Canada's railways. It is also possible to go on tram and train rides and watch demonstrations of telegraphy and the operation of steam trains. Kids and adults will love watching miniature trains making their way around beautifully detailed model railroads.
There are five main themes to the permanent exhibits, namely: Urban Railways, Serving the Economy, From Atlantic to Pacific, Railway Domination and Challenges of Railway Transportation. Each focuses on a different aspect of Canada's railways, both past and present, to provide a varied presentation of the face of the railroads.
Further entertainment is available in the form of theme days. For example: 2 November 2013 to 17 November 2013 features "Suspect Wanted: The Train Robber". Clues are left in the Grand gallery by Bill Miner, renowned bandit of the early 20th century. Children collect the clues in a notebook then take their findings to the children's craft workshop in exchange for the chance to make their own policeman's badge.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes; There is a family discount available.Exporail Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 110 Rue St Pierre, Saint-Constant, QC J5A 1G7, Canada
Phone: (450) 632-2410
Official Website: Exporail
Exporail Reviews
Rated out of 5
One of the best museums I've visited in Quebec. Even during winter it is a great experience and I recommend everyone to go. It's worth the money. You will be pleasantly surprised. Don't forget the train ride at the end ! Even for adults it's very fun.
Alejandra Cortes - a week ago
I visited the Canadian Railway Museum last week with my kids, and it was a wonderful trip! We got to explore the history of trains all in one place. The highlight was stepping inside the President of Canada's train from the 1800s or 1900s. The ambiance was really attractive, and we also watched a fascinating movie about trains. My kids had a blast making and painting gingerbread cookies. One of the funniest and most enjoyable experiences was riding the mini train—it was so much fun! Highly recommend visiting this museum!
Mazen Hijazi - 2 months ago
This museum is a true gem! My visit was fantastic, thanks in part to the incredibly helpful staff. The exhibits are well-maintained and a delight to explore. If you're an engineering or train enthusiast, this museum is an absolute must-see – well worth a visit!
Chris Deakin - a month ago
Excellent museum, will be back for sure, super kids friendly, staff was very nice and polite, there was a volunteer gentleman who was great, he took the time to explain to us full of interesting facts, there is a place to eat lunch but the restaurant was closed. Super happy with our experience, and highly recommend.
Nicolas G. - a month ago
My husband and I visited on a Friday morning. We arrived right around opening time and stayed a couple hours before we had to leave, but I wish we could have stayed longer! The admission price is well worth it. We also purchased tickets for the streetcar and were shocked at how cheap it was for unlimited rides. There’s a nice size model train room and I loved that we could go inside many of the trains. Above all, the staff was so friendly and knowledgeable. I would love to make a trip back here someday!
Nicole Ickes - 6 months ago
Directions
| Bus or Train Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bus #130 transferring to 30A, 30B or 35 | Starting at Bonaventure Metro Station | 1 Minute |
| AMT Commuter Rail - Candiac/St-Constant | Lucien-L'Allier station to Saint-Constant Station | 3 MInutes |
How to get to Exporail by Bus or Train
Located south of Montreal in Saint-Constant, Exporail is accessible by commuter train (weekdays only) or by bus.
By Bus: Take Bus #130 from from platform 13 at Bonaventure Metro Station in downtown Montreal to the Georges-Gagné autoparc in Delson. Transfer to any of Bus 30A, 30B or 35 and get off across from the Exporail parking lot.
By Train: On weekdays the Candiac/St-Constant AMT commuter train leaves platform No.2 of Lucien-L'Allier station at 9:35am and makes the return trip at 1:28pm. You can get to Lucien-L'Allier station on Metro Line 1 - Orange.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Exporail:
Photo Gallery
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Locomotives and cars on display at the Canadian Railway Museum cc licensed photo by Fraccle -
The Flying Scotsman - A famous locomotive from the UK Public Domain -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr
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