California State Railroad Museum

Even those who’ve never experienced the gently rocking relaxation of a country train ride will fall in love with this historic Sacramento attraction, regarded as one of the finest interpretive centers for North America’s venerable “iron horse.” History abounds here, from classic cabooses and sleeper cars (don’t miss the Canadian National’s elegant St. Hyacinth) to the Santa Fe dining car Cochiti, a 1930s gem renowned for its fine china, sparkling crystal, freshly pressed linen and delectable food. The ingenious and enjoyable group venues include the Audubon, a 1950s dining car that holds 48, and the museum’s Sacramento Southern Railroad itself, which operates a three-mile excursion along the Sacramento River levee accommodating 225. csrmf.org