Dates for Iconic Big Boy Locomotive in Illinois and Missouri Revealed
The iconic Big Boy locomotive, a true American treasure, is making its way through Illinois and Missouri with a series of confirmed stops. Union Pacific has officially announced the schedule for this legendary train, offering train enthusiasts and spectators the opportunity to witness this historic and awe-inspiring sight.
The Big Boy No. 4014 is a rare gem in the world of trains, known for its grandeur and historical significance. The complete schedule for the stops in Illinois and Missouri has recently been unveiled, providing a detailed itinerary for fans and curious onlookers alike.
Starting in Sterling, Illinois, the Big Boy locomotive will arrive at the B Street Crossing at 1:30 p.m. CDT before departing at 2:00 p.m. CDT. The next stop in Rochelle, IL, at the Rochelle Railroad Park, located at 124 N. 9th Street, will be a brief visit from 3:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. CDT on the same day.
Moving on to West Chicago, IL, the train will be displayed at the Union Pacific Training Center, south of the West Chicago Metra Stop, on June 3, 2026. Visitors are encouraged to take the Metra to the event as parking will not be available on-site. The exhibition will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CDT, with free admission and no tickets required for entry.
Unfortunately, some stops like West Chicago, IL, South Holland, IL, and Bloomington, IL, will not be accessible to the public, with the train departing early in the morning on specific dates. However, there will be public access to the Big Boy locomotive in cities like St. Louis, MO, with a free exhibition at St. Louis Union Station on July 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CDT.
Further stops in Missouri include Pacific, MO, where the train will arrive at the First St. Crossing at 12:30 p.m. CDT on July 20, 2026, and Hermann, MO, with an arrival at the Boat Ramp Road Crossing at 3:15 p.m. CDT on the same day. The journey will then continue to other cities like Jefferson City, MO, California, MO, and conclude at Union Station in Kansas City, MO on July 21, 2026.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of the Big Boy locomotive in Kansas City, MO, the train will be displayed at Union Station for public viewing from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ONLY on July 22, 2026, followed by a private event for Union Pacific employees. The journey will conclude with the train departing from Union Station at 9:00 a.m. CDT on July 23, 2026.
This unique opportunity to witness the iconic Big Boy locomotive in action is a rare treat for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The scheduled stops in Illinois and Missouri promise a memorable experience for all who attend, providing a glimpse into the rich history and legacy of this legendary train.