The overall experience for VIA Rail passengers in Dauphin is about to improve.
Starting on Saturday and running through April 30, 2026, all passengers boarding a train in Dauphin, or arriving in Dauphin, will have access to washrooms and a warm waiting space inside the Dauphin Rail Museum.
The Rail Museum will open its doors approximately 30 minutes before each scheduled train arrival and remain open until departure. It's a pilot project between the City of Dauphin and the Dauphin Rail Museum.
Jason Gilmore, the president of the Dauphin Rail Museum, says this project has been in the works for many years.
"Kind of more so came to fruition late last year, early this year. Seeing ridership has been up since COVID," said Gilmore. "With the tourism branding of Tourism Dauphin, we wanted to be more welcoming of VIA Rail passengers, especially in cold weather. We are very excited to partner with the City of Dauphin for this pilot project."
Gilmore also says it's a great way to explore Dauphin's rail heritage inside. The Dauphin Rail Museum underwent a $1.4 million restoration that was completed in 2001.
It was designated a Manitoba Heritage Building and a Heritage Railway Station of Canada. The museum preserves over 125 years of regional railway history through its collection of artifacts, photographs, and archival materials.
There is free Wi-Fi, interactive QR code experiences, and hands-on exhibits designed for younger visitors.
"Always, yeah. This will expand our hours a bit," said Gilmore. "Now, we'll definitely be open during the hours that people are waiting for the train, or just arriving in town."
Hours of operation will be updated daily on their Facebook page, beginning November 1.
Gilmore says there are many reasons why taking the train for your next adventure is a good idea. The first reason is the price. A one-way trip to Winnipeg on Saturday starts at $30.
"If you're not in an absolute time crunch, that's one thing some people have an issue with," ended Gilmore. "It's a great way to travel. You can walk around on the train; there's an observation car, and you can have a beverage or a snack. I find it's a very neat way to travel."
So book your next adventure with VIA Rail and get ready for expanded service at the Dauphin Rail Museum.
