Southern California Live Steamers: Miniature Train Rides in Torrance Park
If you are looking for one of the best family-friendly activities in the South Bay then hop aboard the Southern California Live Steamers miniature train ride at Wilson Park in Torrance! Perfect for kids, parents, and train lovers of all ages, this unique attraction has been delighting the community for decades with its charming one-third scale trains.
Operated entirely by volunteers, the Southern California Live Steamers (SCLS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving railroad history while offering fun, educational experiences for the whole family. Since 1947, the miniature trains have been a beloved part of Southern California, making it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
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Southern California Live Steamers Train Rides & Scenic Views
Public train rides run twice a month through the beautiful, tree-filled Wilson Park:
1st Sunday of the month → 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
3rd Saturday of the month → 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Each ride takes you on a scenic loop through the park, offering kids a thrill and adults a dose of nostalgia. It’s one of the best free things to do in Torrance, though donations are greatly appreciated to help keep the trains running.
Tip: Rides may be canceled due to weather or special events. Always check the Southern California Live Steamers Facebook page for real-time updates.
Special Events to Look Out For
In addition to their regular public train rides, SCLS hosts several themed events throughout the year that bring even more magic to the experience:
- Halloween Train Spooktacular: Dress up and hop aboard for a spooky ride through Wilson Park, perfect for the whole family.
- Holiday Lights Train Rides: Celebrate the holiday season with a festive train ride through the park, decked out with dazzling lights and decorations.
- Easter Train: Enjoy a joyful train ride and participate in Easter-themed activities, perfect for kids and families alike.
- Birthday Train Rides: Check the calendar to ensure trains are running on your event day. Regular public run days are the 1st Sunday and 3rd Saturday of the month, unless interrupted by a special event requiring tickets.
- Visit the City of Torrance website to reserve your picnic tables.
- Download the Special Events Train Reservation. Send the completed form to President@SouthernCaliforniaLiveSteamers.org.
These events are wildly popular, so mark your calendar and don’t miss out!
A Rich History of Model Railroading
SCLS has a fascinating backstory. Founded in 1941, this passionate group of railroad enthusiasts originally held meetings in members’ homes and ran monthly events on private property. Notably, Walt Disney was one of its early members, along with Ollie Johnston, an acclaimed Disney animator and model railroad enthusiast. The club moved to its current location at Wilson Park in 1987, after a long history of preserving railroad traditions at various sites, including a track in Lomita that once looped around the Little Engines manufacturing plant.
How the Southern California Live Steamers Operates
Running such an intricate operation isn’t cheap. SCLS relies on donations from members, passengers, corporate sponsors, and fundraisers to cover essential expenses like insurance, track maintenance, fuel, and facility upgrades. Donations are appreciated but never mandatory, making this a truly accessible experience for everyone.
The volunteer-driven organization also collaborates with local schools, Scout groups, and model railroad museums to engage the next generation of train enthusiasts. SCLS volunteers dedicate countless hours to ensuring safety, maintaining the trains, and creating an unforgettable experience for guests.
Plan Your Visit
Bring your family, pack a picnic, and spend the day exploring Wilson Park before or after your train ride. Between the playgrounds, walking paths, and sports fields, it’s the perfect spot for a full day of fun.
Location: Wilson Park – Southern California Live Steamers 2200 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501
Public Run Days: 1st Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM; 3rd Saturday: 12 PM – 3 PM
Admission: Free (donations encouraged)
Parking: Free, located within Wilson Park
Make sure to check the SCLS Facebook page for real-time updates on scheduling and any possible cancellations due to weather. Admission is free, but donations are welcome to help keep this wonderful community attraction running for generations to come.
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