The expanded gallery accommodates four tracks of rolling stock and additional small exhibits, significantly enhancing the museum’s ability to display its 150,000-piece collection. A large wall of windows and an oversized terrace embrace the museum’s scenic location along the Fox River, creating a seamless connection between the exhibits and the natural environment.
The new space also supports the museum’s robust educational programming with indoor and outdoor learning spaces. Central to this is a spacious, AV-equipped classroom designed to host visiting student groups and support dynamic STEM programming. These purpose-built spaces foster deeper community engagement and provide flexible settings for hands-on learning, presentations, and collaborative exploration.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the main exhibition space doubles as a second venue for private events, featuring its own kitchen and capacity for up to 500 guests. Weddings, corporate gatherings, and other celebrations now have a unique and memorable setting among historic railcars.
Architectural features such as exposed trusses and carefully tinted glazing ensure both aesthetic appeal and artifact preservation. The design prioritizes the exhibits themselves, allowing the building to serve as a respectful and elegant backdrop to the museum’s storytelling mission.
With attendance projected to increase by 50% by 2030, this expansion marks a bold step forward in the museum’s evolution by bringing history, education, and community together in a dynamic and meaningful way.
