Medford, Ore. – The Medford Railroad Park opened its gates for the first time in the 2025-2026 season on Sunday, drawing hundreds of families eager to step back in time and explore America’s rich railroad history.
Operating every second and fourth Sunday from April through October, the park offers visitors free access from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This popular attraction, completely run by volunteers, is managed by a coalition of four local organizations: the Southern Oregon Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society, the Southern Oregon Live Steamers, the Morse Telegraph Club, and the Rogue Valley Model Railroad Club, along with the Medford Garden Railroaders.
The opening day was especially busy, with the park expecting to surpass the typical attendance range of 1,100 to 1,200 visitors. Organizers forecasted over 2,000 people would pass through the gates, a testament to the park’s significance and popularity within the community.
Jeff Byrd, Assistant Chief Maintenance Engineer for the park and a volunteer with the National Historical Society of Southern Oregon, spoke about the ongoing mission of the park. “We are promoting railroading from where it used to be to where it is now,” Byrd said, emphasizing the park’s role in educating the public about the evolution of trains and the railroad industry.
For many families, the park has become a staple in Southern Oregon. Byrd, who has volunteered at the park for six years, reflected on the many visitors who return year after year. “I see a lot of the same people year after year,” Byrd shared. “I’ve seen kids grow up to teenagers, and I’ve seen teenagers grow into adults who still come and still love the trains.”
The park offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides an opportunity for visitors to experience firsthand the marvels of trains, from historic locomotives to intricate model railroads. The sight of these machines in motion, coupled with the passionate volunteers who bring them to life, makes for a memorable and educational experience for all ages.
As Southern Oregon families look forward to more park days this season, the Medford Railroad Park continues to serve as both a living tribute to the railroad industry and a beloved community tradition.