The actual handcar features an enlarged platform with a non-skid surface and a reduced gear ratio for slow speed and ease of pumping. The vehicle can accommodate up to six children plus a Museum staff person.

This one-hour, hands-on program is held on the Museum's Sacramento Southern Railroad tracks between the Discovery Museum History Center and the Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station. It features instruction on the history and operation of handcars and other railroad maintenance equipment, railroad safety demonstrations, pumping the Interpretive Handcar over 200 yards of track, a turntable demonstration, including a ride on the Museum's 60-ton turntable, and 1/8-mile ride behind a Fairmont Speeder motorized track vehicle.

The Interpretive Handcar Program is offered every Wednesday and Thursday from March through mid-June.

Program length is one hour, beginning at the following times (see applicable weekdays above): 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.

A $60 per class fee applies. Reservations are required and must be made at least 7 days in advance. To reserve, call Reserve America at (866) 240-4655. For additional information about the Program, please contact the Group information Desk @ (916) 323-9274.