Empire State Railway Museum — Attraction in Town of Shandaken

I had actually planned to take more pictures while I was here but I became so enthralled with the history and information the volunteers had during their tour. This museum is free but has the option to give donations. They have a little gift shop as well. They have a lot of original parts of the building, and a great little recreation of what the train station(s) looked like back in the day, it is made with as much accuracy as was possible, so it is really neat to look at. You certainly learn a lot from here, including about how trains used to stay on time, money security in the old building, and an overall history of the area. Although this is not at all by fault of the museum, we had asked if we could look at the trains and were given permission as long as we stayed on the grass but when we were on the grass, a girl from the business next door yelled at us that we weren't allowed over there, so come communication with that business...

Fascinating exhibits and history, and an amazing, friendly and knowledgeable staff. Renovated station was a journey back in time. So much more on display than expected in what we thought would be a quick stop before our roadtrip home from the Catskills. Free admission but donations requested. Did not have kids with us, but there was something there for all ages to enjoy. Ended up not only leaving a donation, but we also added an annual membership to stay informed of their ongoing projects and wealth of knowledge. Thanks ESRM for your hard restoration work, enthusiasm and generosity with your time! Did not have time for the Rail Explorers railbike excursion located at the same location, but looked like a lot of fun and surely looked to be worth a return trip in the spring. (Also recommend Woodstock Brewing not too far away for a beer flight and some snacks before or afterwards for a...

Written in winter 2020: I’m sure it’s a great museum, but it’s only open during the summer months. There is no indication on their web site (or I missed it) or here, that they’re closed all winter and will open in May. Update in Summer 2022: Wonderful experience. Seriously. We took the children for the Rail Explorers ride, and it was a blast (for young and old alike.) Suggestion: if you decided to do the rail explorers ride, bring a snack or a small picnic so you can relax and pass the 25 minutes or so when they turn around the rail cars to return back to the starting point. You'll have beautiful views of the Catskills, and get to pedal...