We're Closed Until Further Notice

Temporary Closure of Freeman Station

Burlington's Freeman Station will be closed until further notice during discussions with the City of Burlington re: dissolving the Friends of Freeman Station Corporation and planning with Museums of Burlington, for a viable and sustainable future.

Enter the Site

Burlington’s original train Station

Freeman Station

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Upcoming events
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Burlington's

Rail Museum

Freeman Station was more than just a railway station. It was a symbol of progress, connection, and community for the people of Burlington. For almost a century, it served as a gateway to Canadian travellers, immigrants, and workers. This station was built in 1906 by the Grand Trunk Railway (GTR).

Today, after over a decade of fundraising and a full restoration by our all volunteer group, Friends of Freeman Station, the station stands in its relocated home on 1285 Fairview Street, open only during our public events, class visits and station rentals.

A photo out-front of the restored, historic Freeman Station.A historic photo of the early years at Freeman Station, in Burlington, Ontario.
1906
2023
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Recognized for Architecture & History

Restored to Early 1900s, Inside & Out

Volunteer Run Organization

Fully Restored

Step aboard and explore our restored 1906 Grand Trunk Railway station, located in the heart of Burlington.

Huge Train Diorama

Marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship and intricate details of our early-1900s Burlington train diorama.

8 Major Events in 2023

The Friends of Freeman Station all volunteer organization is hosting 8 major events, so far, in 2023.

Ready for Events

Create an unforgettable event that transports your guests back in time to the early 1900s train station ambiance.

Legendary Volunteers

Explore Burlington's first train station history with our enthusiastic volunteers at Freeman Station.

Events

Open Houses

Discover the wonder of rail history at our upcoming open house events.

Ops. We'll be back soon.

Rent

Ready for Class Tours

Our Volunteers would love to take your class, camp group or scouts for a tour!

Contact Us 🚌

Filming & Creation

Beautifully restored on 1.5 acres, perfect for creation.

Events & Dining

Host your very own events & dining sessions.

History

117 Years Strong

Scroll through our timeline, going through the years that got us to where we are today.

1896 Grand Trunk Railway logo
1919 Canadian National Railways logoBurlington Junction sign flat graphicVIA Rail logo

Q&A

Learn more about how to experience Burlington's Freeman Station Rail Museum and how to make the most of your visit.

When can I visit the station Freeman Station?

Freeman Station is open is for 8 major events in 2023.

We are not open on daily, weekly, or monthly. We are not open beyond our listed events. To book private events, class tours, filming or to inquire about getting into the station, please contact us.

What can I do at Freeman Station rail museum during a visit?

During a visit to the Freeman Station rail museum, you can enjoy a variety of engaging activities and experiences:

Explore Exhibits: Discover the rich history of the railway and Freeman Station through interactive displays, artifacts, and restored rail cars.

Guided Tours: Join a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents to learn more about the station's history, restoration efforts, and the significance of the railway in the region.

Class Tours: Attend workshops, lectures, and special events that delve deeper into various aspects of railroad history, technology, and culture.

Rail Gift Shop: Browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs, books, and memorabilia related to the railway and Freeman Station.

Relax and Admire: Take some time to relax and admire the architecture of the historic station, as well as the vintage rail cars and surrounding scenery.

By exploring the museum and participating in the available activities, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the history and significance of Freeman Station and the role of railways in shaping our past and present. Learn more on our Plan a Visit page.

Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?

At Freeman Station, we are dedicated to providing an accessible experience for all visitors. Key accessibility features include accessible parking, ramp access, wide doorways, accessible restrooms, and lowered exhibits. Our volunteers are available to assist visitors with disabilities. Some areas, including the diorama may have limited accessibility, but we strive to offer alternative ways to experience these exhibits.

Contact us in advance for any specific concerns or requests.

Can I rent the Freeman Station for private events or film/photo sessions?

Yes, the Freeman Station rail museum offers rental opportunities for private events, film productions, and photo sessions. Our unique and historical setting provides an engaging backdrop for various occasions such as films, corporate events, birthday parties, weddings, photoshoots and supports the preservation of Burlington's railway station.

To inquire about availability, rental rates, and any specific requirements or restrictions, please contact our all volunteer team

How can I donate or support the preservation of Freeman Station?

To donate or support the preservation of Freeman Station, you can contribute in several ways, including financial donations, membership, sponsorship, artifact donations and rental of the station.

For more details on how to donate or support Freeman Station, please contact us directly. Your contributions are greatly appreciated and help ensure the preservation of our historical treasure for future generations.
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4.8/5 Stars

Hear from visitors of the Station

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Olaf A.

"The volunteers who run this station are doing an excellent job of restoring this station and preserving its history.  Well worth visiting."

Ted B.

"What treat. Beautifully restored. Lots of memories there. Great volunteers. The model train display downstairs replicates the area around old Freeman."

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Bill D.

"An amazing place, beautifully restored."

Ted B.

"Volunteers were fabulous! A piece of history on display for everyone. Don't forget to check out the basement model trains!"

Tammy F.

"Amazing work has been done here over the past few years, 100% by volunteers who are passionate in saving local railroading history. The station has been saved from demolition, moved, a new foundation poured, the inside restored, a new platform built, tracks laid and the station features many interesting railroad artifacts."

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Burl I.

"The restoration of this 1906 Grand Trunk Railway Station is the largest heritage project in the Burlington area and a big cheer to the group of dedicated volunteers making it happen.!"

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Nabeel M.

"Lovely piece in the middle of city"

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Sam F.

"Super cute little stop!."

Open For you

We’re not a public museum, but would love to have you!

Our historic Freeman Station is a volunteer-run museum in the heart of Burlington, showcasing the rich history of our area. Currently, we don't have the resources to open regularly. Open for at least in 8 public open houses in 2023, we'd love to see you!

The Station, fully restored to its original condition, is available to rent as a venue for private events & the historic charm makes it great for filming and content creation.

Visit Freeman Station for a unique experience in Ontario.

Meet The Friends of Freeman Station

Building on Legacy.

Founded in 2011, The Friends of Freeman Station is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization with over 100 lifetime members who meet monthly to preserve the heritage of Burlington's railway history.

Thanks to the dedication of its volunteers, the station serves as a valuable resource for locals, visitors and renters alike, providing education on railway history and offering a glimpse into the past.

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125 Lifetime Members, Meet Monthly

100% Volunteer Run Organization

Get Involved. Join our Membership.

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Supporters

Restored through your support

Through the generosity of businesses, families and individuals alike, Freeman Station still stands today; restored and back in operation to continue the story that started over a century ago.

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Station Masters

Donating $25K +

Original Station Masters were crucial to the operation of the  Burlington Junction, today, our Station Masters have been imperative to the founding, restoration and the future of Freeman Station.

The City of Burlington logoOntario Trillium Foundation logoArgo Development Corp. logoKeith's Plumbing & Heating Inc. logoKING Paving & Construction logoPGM Rail Services logoSolenis logoMcCulloch Logo
Mikalda Farms Ltd.
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Conductors

Donating $10K - 25K

First crucial to the operation of trains out of Burlington Junction, our Conductors have helped us restore and continue operations today.

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Paul Airey
Bob & Ruth Miller
Ken Taylor
Rod Wilson