Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum

If you’re traveling near Montreal and have a soft spot for trains—or just love a good history lesson with a bit of fun—Exporail is worth a visit. This railway museum, just a quick drive from the city, offers a snapshot of Canada’s railroading past through a collection of authentic locomotives, passenger cars, and engaging exhibits. It’s a place where history feels alive, and the experience is perfect for families, rail enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how trains shaped the nation’s development.

What makes Exporail stand out? First, its live museum atmosphere—not just static displays but vehicles you can actually walk aboard and explore. Second, the focus on interactive experiences like train rides and discovery trails helps bring the past to life. That said, the one-hour tour might feel a little quick if you’re keen to soak up every detail, but it’s a fair trade-off for the accessible price of $17 per person. If you’re seeking a practical, family-friendly outing that offers a genuine look at railway history without the crowds, this museum is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic railway vehicles: Climb aboard streetcars, passenger cars, and steam locomotives.
• Year-round access: Open all year, making it flexible for any travel schedule.
• Interactive exhibits: Discover the lives of railway workers and the evolution of transport.
• Affordable price: At $17, offers good value for a family or solo traveler.
• Support heritage: Your visit helps preserve Canada’s railway history.
• Accessible: Suitable for visitors with mobility needs, with guided tours available on weekends.

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An Authentic Look at Railway Heritage

We’ll start by saying that visiting Exporail feels less like a tourist trap and more like stepping into a well-maintained, living museum. There’s a genuine effort to showcase railway history without artificiality. The impressive collection of over 400 artifacts and vehicles is displayed in a way that invites exploration. You’re encouraged to walk through the open-air yards and inside some vehicles, which makes the experience lively and tactile rather than just visual.

One of the real strengths here is the immersion tunnel, which introduces you to the history of rail transport in Canada. It’s not a long walk, but it’s packed with stories and artifacts that give you context about the importance of trains in shaping the country. The exhibits are designed to be engaging, especially for kids, with the chance to see old streetcars, passenger cars, and the legendary steam engines up close.

What You Can Expect on Your Visit

The tour, which lasts about an hour, is guided by knowledgeable staff who provide insights in both French and English. We appreciated the clarity and enthusiasm of the guides, making the experience accessible for all visitors. The guided tours on weekends add an extra layer of storytelling, perfect for history buffs or those who appreciate a more structured visit.

You can expect to see vehicles that are open to the public, including vintage streetcars that evoke scenes from bygone eras. Climbing aboard these cars allows you to imagine what life was like for passengers in decades past. For younger visitors, the discovery trail offers a chance to stroll through exhibits at their own pace, while the miniature railway rides add a fun, interactive element.

The train rides—whether on a tram or miniature railway—are an optional extension that can turn a quick visit into a memorable adventure, especially for children. These rides are affordable but might be scheduled depending on the day’s activities, so it’s worth checking ahead if they’re a priority.

Value for Money

At $17 per person, the admission fee is quite reasonable considering the range of exhibits and activities included. Your ticket grants access to all current exhibitions, which vary depending on the season, and free parking makes logistics straightforward. Visitors can also bring lunch to enjoy in the designated indoor or outdoor areas, making it a flexible, budget-friendly outing.

The museum’s focus on preserving Canada’s railway heritage adds a meaningful dimension to your visit. Every purchase supports this mission, making your ticket not just a ticket but a contribution to a cultural cause. Additional activities like the interactive experiences are affordable options to extend your visit and deepen your understanding of rail history.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Exporail is located near Montreal, accessible via the main entrance at P1, near the railroad tracks crossing St. Pierre Street. The P2 entrance is currently closed, so plan your route accordingly. The site is wheelchair accessible, and guides can assist visitors with mobility needs. The visit lasts about an hour, which is manageable even for younger children or visitors with limited stamina.

What to bring? Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking outdoors and inside vehicles. Pets aren’t allowed, though assistance dogs are welcomed. Remember to dress for the weather, as parts of the experience are outdoors.

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Authentic Experiences and Visitor Feedback

One reviewer from Canada noted, “Je aimé ça parce que j’aimais voir les vieux trains et mon chum il aimé ça aussi,” highlighting how the experience appeals to both train enthusiasts and casual visitors. The chance to see authentic, historic trains and interact with them makes it a memorable outing. Visitors also praise the knowledgeable guides for their storytelling, which enhances the understanding and enjoyment of the exhibits.

Others appreciated that the museum is open year-round, offering flexibility to visit in any season, whether in summer or winter. The indoor spaces and outdoor exhibits provide a good mix of sheltered and open-air exploration.

Who Will Enjoy Exporail?

This tour is ideal for families looking for an educational activity that’s also fun. History buffs will appreciate the detailed artifacts and the stories behind each vehicle. Rail enthusiasts will relive the golden age of trains, while children will love climbing into vintage cars and riding miniature trains. The affordable price and flexible scheduling make it accessible for day trips or part of a larger Quebec itinerary.

The Sum Up

Exporail offers a straightforward, genuine glimpse into Canada’s railway past. Its combination of accessible, well-maintained vehicles, live guides, and interactive exhibits makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in transportation history or seeking a family-friendly outing. The focus on preservation and storytelling adds meaning to the experience, making it more than just a collection of old trains.

While it might be a quick visit—about an hour—you’ll walk away with a better understanding of the crucial role railroads played in shaping modern Canada. Its affordability, year-round availability, and supportive atmosphere for all visitors make it a smart choice for travelers around Montreal.

If you’re short on time but want a memorable, authentic experience that’s both educational and fun, Exporail hits the mark. It’s an excellent way to see a different side of Quebec’s rich history—through the lens of steam engines and vintage cars—without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is Exporail wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible, and guides can assist visitors with mobility needs.

How long does a typical tour last?
Most guided visits are around 1 hour, which allows for a good overview without feeling rushed.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays, featuring knowledgeable guides who explain the exhibits in both French and English.

What should I bring?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended, and dress according to the weather, especially for outdoor exploration.

Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is included with your admission.

Are activities like train rides included in the ticket price?
No, train rides and other interactive activities are optional and may have an extra cost, depending on the schedule.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring lunch to enjoy in designated indoor or outdoor areas.

What is the main entrance?
The main entrance is at P1, near the railroad tracks crossing St. Pierre Street. The P2 entrance is currently closed.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids love climbing into vintage cars and riding miniature trains, and the exhibits are engaging for all ages.

How much does it cost?
The admission price is $17 per person, offering good value for the range of exhibits and activities included.

Visiting Exporail provides a real, tactile sense of history that’s perfect for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re a train buff or just looking for an interesting family outing, it’s a destination that respects its past and shares it in a lively, engaging way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby