MONTREAL | Exporail – Canadian Railway Museum in Saint-Constant

In May and June 2023, we travelled from east to west across Canada. From Halifax in Nova Scotia to Montreal in Quebec, to Toronto in Ontario, to Vancouver and Whistler in British Columbia. Along the way some night trains and commuter trains, the Niagara Falls and – imagine this – a bus journey. A true Trans-Canada Train Trek.

We just can’t resist a railway museum. So we made the excursion to Exporail or Canadian Railway Museum (Musée ferroviaire canadien). Also it was a rain day and museums are (mostly) inside affairs.

Exporail is located in Saint-Constant, close to the station. The museum is located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) southwest of downtown Montreal.

Exporail offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors, providing insights into the development of railways and their impact on the country’s growth and transportation history.

Features and attractions

Historic Train Collection: The museum houses an extensive collection of historic locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars from different periods in Canadian railway history. Visitors can explore the various train cars and learn about their significance.
Train Rides: Exporail offers train rides on select days, allowing visitors to experience the joy of riding aboard vintage trains. These rides provide a unique perspective on the museum’s collection and offer an immersive experience. We rode a tram around the premises.
Heritage Buildings: The museum features several preserved heritage buildings, including a station, roundhouse, and maintenance shops. These structures provide a glimpse into the architectural and functional aspects of railway operations.
Exhibitions and Interpretive Displays: Exporail showcases a range of exhibitions and interpretive displays that delve into different aspects of railway history, such as the construction of the transcontinental railway, the role of railways in the economy, and the evolution of technology in the industry.
Model Trains: The museum has an extensive model train display, featuring intricate dioramas and model railway layouts. It offers a fascinating look at the miniature world of railways and highlights the craftsmanship involved in model train hobbyist culture.
Educational programmes: Exporail offers educational programs for schools and organized groups, providing interactive learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. These programs cover various topics related to railways, history, and transportation.
Special Events: The museum hosts special events throughout the year, including themed exhibits, seasonal celebrations, and family-oriented activities. These events add to the overall experience and provide additional attractions for visitors.

A visit

The main hall houses the most interesting locomotives, coaches and trams (streetcars). A striking streetcar was the open-top leisure parade car for scenic tours around Montreal.

There is another shed and there is rolling stock outside as well. Make sure to ride the tram.

Exporail is a pretty good and informative railway museum and worth a visit if you like trains. Allow two to three hours.

Top tip

You can travel there by train. If you do, don’t forget to validate your ticket at the tap pole, to avoid a big fine. The top level of the dubbel decker cars are Quiet Zones. So shhh.