LA PORTE TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Steam, Tickets, and Birthday Candles: La Porte’s Annual National Train Day
A one-day celebration in La Porte that marks Amtrak’s birthday with free admission and opportunities to ride the trains on the Saturday closest to May 10 — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Steam, Tickets, and Birthday Candles: La Porte’s Annual National Train Day.
Each spring the Hesston Steam Museum in La Porte throws open its yards for National Train Day: a lively railroad opening and Amtrak birthday celebration that invites locals and rail enthusiasts to roam vintage equipment, buy seats on excursion runs, and take part in a community festival. Admission to the event is free, and train rides are available by ticket, making the day as accessible as it is festive.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Amtrak’s Birthday and the Railroad Opening
The event centers on the annual opening of the railroads and a celebration of Amtrak’s birthday, held each year on the Saturday nearest May 10.
Free Admission for All
Organizers advertise free admission to the grounds, making it easy for families and first-time visitors to join the festivities without an entry fee.
Ride the Trains (Tickets Required)
Beyond wandering the rails, attendees have the chance to ride trains during the celebration; train tickets are available for purchase separately from the free event entry.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The program reads like a neighborhood festival around a working railroad: museum yards opened to visitors, celebratory signage for Amtrak’s birthday, and scheduled train departures for ticketed riders. It’s a compact, one-day affair that blends casual access—free admission—with the focused draw of onboard trips for those who buy seats.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day is best for — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The celebration takes place each year on the Saturday closest to May 10; attendees should note this annual timing when planning.
Bring any purchased train ride tickets and typical day-event essentials; admission to the event itself is free, while train rides require separate tickets.
The event is run by the LaPorte County Historical Steam Society, doing business as Hesston Steam Museum.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is there an admission fee for National Train Day in La Porte?
Admission to the event is free.
Can I ride the trains at the event?
Yes — visitors have the chance to ride trains during the celebration; train tickets are available for purchase separately.
When is National Train Day held each year?
The event is celebrated on the Saturday closest to May 10 every year.
Who operates the National Train Day event in La Porte?
The event is operated by the LaPorte County Historical Steam Society doing business as Hesston Steam Museum.
Where is the event located?
National Train Day takes place in La Porte, Indiana, United States, at the Hesston Steam Museum.
Is the event suitable for children?
The event is promoted as 'Fun for All Ages,' making it appropriate for children and family groups.