Join us for a premier interactive community event that transforms the museum grounds and surrounding streets into a large, hands-on exploration of the machinery that builds, protects, and sustains our city and surrounding areas. This annual showcase offers families and travelers a rare opportunity to engage directly with the specialized vehicles and local professionals that keep our infrastructure, agriculture, and emergency services in motion.

Event Highlights:
The Fleet on the Street: A curated display of over 20 massive vehicles—ranging from vintage locomotives and TxDOT heavy machinery to forest service dozers and state park rigs—will line Congress and Lee Street. This is an open-access experience where attendees are encouraged to climb into the cabs, explore the equipment, and speak with the operators.

The “Roundhouse Table Talks”: Hosted inside the museum gallery, these sessions offer a deep dive into the “how and why” of mechanical movement. Experts from our partner organizations lead kid-friendly presentations, providing unique insights into their daily work.

Interactive STEM Zone: A dedicated educational area where young visitors can put physics into practice. Featuring the “Gravity Grand Prix,” participants race modified toy cars to discover the principles of friction and momentum through hands-on experimentation.

“Inside the Iron Giant” Immersive Space: A sensory experience located inside the museum where synchronized light, sound, and projections transport visitors into a steam engine room.

Community & Artisan Market: The event experience is rounded out by a curated market featuring local artisans and a variety of regional food trucks, providing a full day of engagement for visitors of all ages.

Whether you are a mechanical enthusiast or a family looking for an impactful educational outing, this event provides an immersive look at the power and history of transportation.