As California prepares to introduce next-generation high speed trains, it’s interesting to take a look at the history of rail in the state and the California State Railroad Museum is undoubtedly the best place to do it.

The Southern Pacific 6051 locomotive at the California State Railroad Museum (photo N2xjk)

Located in Old Sacramento, this charming museum tells the story of rail’s contribution to the building of California, with exhibits that really do bring the magic of steam-travel to life. Visits start with a fascinating documentary about the role of railways in the Gold Rush, but after that is when it really gets interesting.

Visitors can ride a real steam train for a 40-minute, 6-mile roundtrip ride along the levees of the Sacramento River, experiencing exactly what it was like to travel in the age when these “iron horses” connected California to the rest of the country.

In total, there are 21 restored locomotives and cars, which date back to the 1860s, along with a mock-up of a 19th century construction site which features the locomotive Gov. Stanford and a 24-foot-high bridge.

Parents with children can let them run wild in the Thomas play area, and family tickets are available for regular visitors.