LA Live Steamers

In 1956, a group of passionate live steam enthusiasts gathered in Los Angeles. They shared a dream: to create a place where the public could experience the magic of miniature railroads. This dream became a reality with the founding of the LA Live Steamers Railroad Museum in Griffith Park. LA Live Steamers isn’t just a museum. It’s a living, breathing tribute to railroad history. Originally, all the model locomotives were steam-powered, hence the name “Live Steamers”. Over time, gasoline-powered and battery-electric models joined the collection. Imagine riding a 7+1⁄2 inch gauge miniature railway, pulled by a tiny but powerful locomotive. LA Live Steamers offers precisely this unique experience every Sunday, weather permitting. The museum grounds hold more than just miniature railways. There’s a stationary 19th-century steam plant that operates on the third Sunday of each month. The museum hosts two major gatherings each year for live steam hobbyists. These are the Spring Meet on Memorial Day Weekend and the Fall Meet in early October. LA Live Steamers even has a connection to Walt Disney. The museum houses a full-size barn from Disney’s backyard Carolwood Pacific Railroad. This barn is part of a separate exhibit run by the Carolwood Foundation. This “free Disney attraction” is open on the third Sunday of each month. It’s filled with Disney artifacts and memorabilia related to his love of trains. So, step into the world of LA Live Steamers and experience the charm of miniature railroads, the power of steam, and the magic of Disney. It’s a journey through time and a celebration of ingenuity.