Engineer Experience

ENGINEER EXPERIENCE

Step into the cab. Take the controls. Feel the steel beneath your hands as you command a historic NASA locomotive that once hauled helium and solid rocket boosters for the Space Shuttle Program. Our Engineer Experience puts you at the helm of this Cold War-era workhorse — a living artifact of American innovation and determination.

Whether you're a lifelong railfan, a space enthusiast, or just looking for the thrill of a lifetime, we offer three unforgettable levels of hands-on locomotive operation.

🟫 BRONZE SPIKE EXPERIENCE

30 Minutes – Introductory Hands-On Run

A perfect entry point for first-timers or anyone chasing that bucket-list moment.

Operate NASA No. 2, the same locomotive that supported Shuttle launches, under direct supervision
Learn the basics of throttle, brake, horn use, and light forward/reverse movements
“Light locomotive work” includes solo engine maneuvers without railcars, focusing on smooth control and situational awareness
Receive a personalized certificate of completion

Short, powerful, and absolutely unforgettable.

$85.00

***This experience will be by appointment only and requires a two week notice to ensure availability of staff and equipment.

⚪ SILVER SPIKE EXPERIENCE

90 Minutes – Intermediate Locomotive Operation
Dig deeper into the power, procedure, and precision of real railroading.

Run NASA No. 2 through full startup and shutdown cycles
Learn and perform coupling and uncoupling with rolling stock
Pull an actual consist (a group of cars) across museum yard tracks
Explore real-world yard operations, with the confidence-building support of a trained instructor
Includes certificate of completion

For the curious, the capable, and the hungry for more.

$150.00

***This experience will be by appointment only and requires a two week notice to ensure availability of staff and equipment.

🟡 GOLD SPIKE EXPERIENCE

6 Hours – The Full Engineer Experience
This isn’t a ride — it’s a rite of passage.

Take the throttle of NASA No. 2 and lead switching operations across the entire museum yard
Build consists, spot cars, break down trains, and master multiple operational scenarios
Shadow GCRM yard crew and perform real-world moves with actual equipment
Designed for the passionate few who want to go all in — this is hands-on, boots-on-the-ground, locomotive mastery
Includes premium certificate, and commemorative badge

An elite-level, once-in-a-lifetime experience on a locomotive that helped launch the Space Age.

$2,000.00

***This experience will be by appointment only and requires a month's notice to ensure availability of staff and equipment.

The programs will be by appointment only and requires a two week notice to ensure availability of staff and equipment. Space will be limited to two persons for the Silver Spike package. Up to two family members and/or friends may observe with a paid admission, However, seating space in the cab is limited and subject to museum regulations. All Engineer Experiences begin at 9:00 AM. For more information or to check availability call the museum at
305-253-0063.