Rochelle Railroad Park

Rochelle Railroad Park is a viewing facility with an elevated observation platform and covered shelter that provides clear sight lines to trains crossing the double diamond junction. The site also includes historical exhibits and amenities designed to enhance the rail-watching experience.

The park opened in 1998 as the first dedicated public railroad observation facility in the United States, replacing an unsafe gathering spot where train watchers had previously congregated. This established a safer, more organized way for people to enjoy rail transport.

The park displays a recreated hobo camp and vintage railroad equipment that tell stories of how people once lived and traveled along the rails. These displays help visitors understand the human side of American rail transport across different eras.

The site provides access to restrooms, vending machines, and free Wi-Fi for visitor convenience. A live radio scanner monitors both Union Pacific and BNSF operating frequencies, allowing you to track train movements in real time.

The park operates two international webcams that stream continuous live footage of the railroad diamond crossing to train enthusiasts worldwide. This online access lets people across the globe watch trains pass through even when they cannot visit in person.

Location: Illinois

GPS coordinates: 41.92030,-89.07200

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:08