Adventure brief
Run One Program • Electric Streetcars
Become a streetcar operator for an hour at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. Learn to drive historic electric streetcars under expert guidance and earn a personalized certificate.
Step into the shoes of a streetcar operator with the Run One Program at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. This one-of-a-kind experience offers you the chance to drive historic electric streetcars and trains on the mainline, all under the watchful eye of a qualified engineer. Over the course of an hour, you’ll learn the mechanics behind operating these powerful machines, gaining hands-on experience that few get to enjoy.
The program is designed to be both educational and thrilling, perfect for history buffs, railway enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique adventure. At the end of your session, you'll receive an official engineer’s cap and certificate of accomplishment, making a fantastic keepsake from your day. Located in Southern California’s scenic Perris Valley, the museum itself is a treasure trove of historic railcars and locomotives, providing plenty to explore before or after your run.
Whether you're looking for a special gift, a memorable family outing, or a personal bucket-list experience, Run One offers an unforgettable journey back to the golden age of electric streetcars.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Orientationessential
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled run to complete safety briefings and equipment fitting.
- 02Wear Comfortable Clothinginfo
Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be seated and moving controls for about an hour.
- 03Stay Hydratedinfo
Bring a water bottle, especially in warmer months; the controls are indoors but the museum grounds are large.
- 04Follow All Instructions Closelyessential
The streetcars are powerful machinery, so listen carefully to your engineer guide to ensure a safe experience.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet while operating machinery and walking around the museum grounds.
EssentialLight Layered Clothing
Weather can vary; layers keep you comfortable during indoor and outdoor portions.
allEssentialSun Protection (Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen)
Essential during summer months to guard against sun exposure on museum grounds.
summerWater Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your visit, especially when spending time outdoors.
allEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The museum’s restored 1920s diner car, offering a unique photo opportunity., Quiet picnic areas behind the museum where you can relax after your run.
Local fauna
California quail, Red-tailed hawks
Historic heritage
The Southern California Railway Museum preserves one of the largest collections of historic railway equipment west of the Mississippi, showcasing the region’s rich rail heritage.
Mindful exploration
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices by restoring and operating vintage streetcars with minimal environmental impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Trackside near the mainline curves for dynamic shots of moving streetcars, Front entrance showcasing historic locomotives, Museum’s vintage diner car exterior
- Subjects
- historic streetcars, railway mechanics, vintage signage
- Best times
- Golden hour, early morning, late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need any prior experience to participate?
No previous experience is required; all training and guidance are provided by a qualified engineer.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Participants must be at least 14 years old to operate the streetcars for safety reasons.
What happens if it rains on the day of my booking?
The program proceeds rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe; indoor museum areas remain open.
Can I bring guests to watch me operate the streetcar?
Yes, guests are welcome to observe but must stay within designated safe viewing areas.
Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Some areas of the museum are accessible, but operating the streetcars requires climbing steps and standing.
How do I receive my certificate and engineer’s cap?
At the end of your run, you will be presented with an official certificate and an engineer’s cap as a souvenir.