National City Depot
0 Reviews
Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
About the National City Depot
The National City Depot is a free museum that includes the oldest railroad-related structure still standing in San Diego County that remains at its original location. The beautifully restored building, originally constructed in 1882, was part of the California Southern Railway 
The City of National City restored the depot in 1998 to reflect its 19th-century appearance, preserving original woodwork and interior details that highlight its historic charm.
The depot is easily accessible by car or by the San Diego Trolley’s Blue Line, with the 24th Street Station just a short walk away. 
Visitors can enjoy watching BNSF freight trains pass by, as the area is still active with modern rail operations. The museum’s exhibits include original elements like a freight scale, and though the second floor is used for offices and not open to the public, the main floor holds rotating displays and preserved architectural features. 
While you’re in the area, make sure to visit Brick Row & Heritage Square nearby!
The depot, designed in the Italianate style, can also be used for meetings or events, with space available for up to 60 people. 
The facility welcomes class tours by appointment and is supported through the efforts of volunteers, donors, and local sponsors such as the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Those interested in history and rail are encouraged to become docents or supporters to help preserve this important piece of Southern California’s railway heritage. 
The museum is volunteer run. Here is the lovely volunteer that helped us both times I’ve visited: 
There is a really cool model train inside the building also: 
