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Clear Lake, Iowa: Iowa Trolley Park - Private Rail for Kids

Private rail track invites young visitors to pilot its hand pump rail cars, speeder (if it starts), and a diesel engine.

Address:
3429 Main Ave., Clear Lake, IA
Directions:
I-35 and Hwy B35 Exit 193. Head east on 4th Ave S, take first left beyond I-35, then right onto Main Ave. Park is on right.
Hours:
Mem. Day to Labor Day Sa-Su 10 am - 4 pm. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
641-357-7433
Admission:
Museum - free. Handcar/locomotive $25 family minimum donation, cash.
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Visitor Tips and News About Iowa Trolley Park - Private Rail for Kids

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Train cars.

Iowa Trolley Park - Private Rail for Kids

There are two train cars you can climb all over, but I don't recommend for small children. They are fun though -- as long as you take care when going inside. Quite rustic.

[Kerin Fassler, 07/19/2019]

Iowa Trolley Park.

Iowa Trolley Park

The Trolley Park welcomed us with the opportunity to drive the big diesel with a very detailed instructions and lots of opportunity to blow the train whistle. The museum is actually dedicated to teaching about the replica steam engine they have been building for over 20 years by hand. They believe they are within 2-3 years before completion.

The train you get to drive is rickety, but exciting!

[Kara S. McCoy, 07/03/2015]

The "Trolley" name is puzzling, as the park has no trolleys. The engine you can drive is a 1952 switchyard locomotive. The engine they're building is an 1859 steam locomotive.

Iowa Trolley Park - Private Rail for Kids

This is much cooler than expected. Our 9 and 13 year old kids got to actually drive a 1952 locomotive! Stanley spent about two hours with us explaining all about steam locomotives. Big thumbs up.

[Mike Walsh, 08/04/2014]
Iowa Trolley Park - Private Rail for Kids

The Iowa Trolley Park doesn't have trolleys any more, but it does have hand pump rail cars, speeders and a diesel engine -- all of which you can drive or pump yourself on private rail track. It is inexpensive and educational but, FUN educational! Definitely worth the stop if you have kids! Bring cash -- they don't take credit cards.

[Mom of Three, 07/29/2011]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Tiny Church: Guardian Angel Roadside ChapelTiny Church: Guardian Angel Roadside Chapel, Clear Lake, IA - < 1 mi.
Surf Ballroom: Buddy Holly's Last GigSurf Ballroom: Buddy Holly's Last Gig, Clear Lake, IA - 2 mi.
Pyramid HousePyramid House, Clear Lake, IA - 3 mi.
In the region:
Fish - World's Largest Bullhead, Crystal Lake, IA - 23 mi.

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