The miniature train and handcar rides are two of the South Coast Railroad Museum's most popular visitor attractions.
The Goleta Short Line miniature train ride operates year-around -- weekends from 1:15 to 3:45 pm and Wednesdays and Fridays from 2 to 3:45 pm. There are 3-4 departures per hour.
Ticket prices: $1.50 (single ride); $2.50 (2-ride ticket). Prices are subject to change and may be higher during special events. Members receive a discount on all ticket purchases.
Be sure to check the calendar for upcoming free-ride days.
The miniature train
is also available for birthdays, parties and other private
group uses.
The 1/2-mile ride around the museum grounds takes about nine minutes. It's a great way to view Goleta Depot's handsome architecture.
The miniature train plays an important role in many of the museum's special events. A festively-decorated train, left, is awash in a springtime sea of California Poppies during the popular annual "Easter Bunny Express."
All riders must meet the 34-inch minimum-height requirement. The ride is not suitable for persons who have problems maintaining their balance.
Free handcar rides
are offered on the third Saturday of the every month, 1-3:50
p.m. The handcar also operates during most
museum special events. On other days, visitors may also request a private ride on the handcar, for which there will be a small fee. Handcar rides may also be arranged in advance by phone or email.
Handcars are powered by the passengers, themselves, who pump a lever that turns a pair of meshed gears connected to one of the axles.
The museum's handcar
was built in 1989 by museum volunteers Eugene Allen, James
Higman, Bob Mahan and Ralph Moore. It is modeled after the
historic railroad handcar, depicted below.
For safety, all handcar riders must meet the 48-inch minimum-height requirement. The ride is not suitable for persons who have problems maintaining their balance.
Handcars were developed during the second half of the 19th century. They were used primarily to transport railroad workers and equipment.