Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Explore Transportation History in Roanoke
Founded in 1963, the Virginia Museum Of Transportation has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the Commonwealth's transportation history for over six decades. Recognized as Virginia's Official Transportation Museum by the General Assembly, we house an extensive collection of locomotives, automobiles, and aviation artifacts that trace the evolution of transportation technology. Our exhibits, including interactive displays and hands-on experiences, provide educational opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore the historical, cultural, and technological significance of transportation. Located in Roanoke's historic freight station, we combine over 60 years of operational expertise with a commitment to engaging the public through immersive storytelling and artifact preservation.Our team prioritizes accessibility, offering family-friendly exhibits, school field trip programs, and special events that highlight both local and national transportation heritage. Through our extensive collections and community-focused initiatives, we maintain a position of authority in transportation history education while ensuring trustworthiness through transparent operations and adherence to preservation standards.
Services
Auto Gallery
Aviation Gallery
Rail Gallery
Gift Shop
School Field Trips
Event Hosting
Model Train Exhibit
Outside Railyard Tours
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- Recognized as Virginia's Official Transportation Museum since 1963
- Over 60 years of preserving transportation history in the Commonwealth
- Interactive exhibits with historic locomotives, vintage cars, and aircraft
- Family-friendly educational experiences for all age groups
- Hosts the iconic Norfolk & Western J Class #611 steam locomotive
What people say
Interactive exhibits
Historic locomotives
Family-friendly
Educational value
Iconic steam engine
Services
Auto Gallery
Our Auto Gallery showcases over 30 historic vehicles spanning from early 20th-century models like the 1913 Studebaker to modern electric prototypes. Visitors explore automotive evolution through interactive displays featuring rare classics such as the Packard Super Eight and GM's first electric car. The exhibit educates about technological advancements in vehicle design and manufacturing processes across different eras.
Rail Gallery
The Rail Gallery features historic steam and diesel locomotives, including the opportunity to board a Norfolk Southern SD40 cab. Large-scale models and interactive exhibits demonstrate railway operations and infrastructure development. This collection highlights rail transport's role in shaping national economic growth and industrial expansion.
Aviation Gallery
Our Aviation Gallery presents aircraft displays and a replica control tower that illustrate aviation's technological and cultural impact. Visitors learn about flight history through exhibits like the Jupiter Rocket and Pratt & Whitney engine displays. The gallery emphasizes aviation's role in transforming global commerce and travel.
School Field Trips
Customizable field trips offer hands-on learning about transportation mechanics and history. Students engage with interactive exhibits covering engineering principles and historical context. Programs align with state and national educational standards while providing immersive experiences through guided tours and specialized activities.
Gift Shop
The museum gift shop offers transportation-themed toys, books, and memorabilia for all ages. Available both onsite and online, the shop features unique items inspired by the museum's collections. Proceeds support preservation efforts and educational programming at the museum.
Questions
What are the Virginia Museum of Transportation's operating hours?
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM.
What special exhibits can visitors expect?
Featured exhibits include the Auto Gallery with vintage cars, Rail Gallery with locomotives, and Aviation Gallery with aircraft displays.
Is the museum suitable for school field trips?
Yes, we offer educational programs aligned with school curricula featuring hands-on exhibits and guided tours for students of all ages.
Can visitors access the gift shop online?
Our gift shop is available both onsite and online at https://explore.vmt.org/ with transportation-themed merchandise and memorabilia.
What parking options exist for visitors?
Free parking is available adjacent to the museum, with additional street parking and garage options near Salem Avenue.
Does the museum host special events?
Yes, we host seasonal events like the Candy Cane Celebration and offer venue rental for weddings and corporate events among historic exhibits.
