Dedicated to the technology that opened the Last Frontier, this museum is a gearhead’s dream. And it’s pretty darned interesting even if you aren’t into trains, planes or heavy machinery. Set on 20 acres, you can wander through old train cars, around commercial fishing boats and cars and explore old farm and oil machinery. Or head inside and learn about Alaska Pioneering women, gold mining and aviation. Only four miles from downtown Wasilla, the museum is a fun destination for families; kids love the vintage toys and train displays, and special events are entertaining and educational.
The museum is self-guided, with informational placards and displays on everything from telephones to farming equipment. The largest exhibit is trains, with four old cars, plus the original Matanuska Train Stop building. It’s open during special events, which occur most weekends: vintage car shows, 4x4 displays and obstacle course races, quilt shows…you name it!
In addition to the planes and trains, including military aircraft and tank cars, you can see the car that President Harding toured Alaska in, plus look at some of the original farm equipment used by the farmers in the Palmer Colony.
There’s a gift shop and a park with picnic tables and miniature trains, a perfect place to spend a couple hours.
Hours
Open May 13-Sept. 6, 10-5 daily; Closed in winter.
Admission
Adults $8, Seniors $5, Children (3-17) $5, Families $18. Active military and their families are free.
