Big Boy No. 4014 Returning To Ohio This Summer: Where To See The World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive
OHIO — One of the most famous steam locomotives in American history is making its way back through Ohio this summer, giving rail fans and families another chance to see Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 up close.
Union Pacific says Big Boy No. 4014 is on a historic Coast-to-Coast 2026 tour as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The railroad describes the locomotive as the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, and the tour marks the first time Big Boy has made stops in several eastern states, including Ohio, Indiana, New York and Pennsylvania.
The massive steam engine already made Ohio stops earlier in June, including Continental, Fostoria, Lorain and Euclid, before continuing east. But Ohio residents will get another opportunity to see the historic locomotive in July as it returns west.
Upcoming Ohio Stops
According to Union Pacific’s official steam schedule, Big Boy No. 4014 is scheduled to return to Ohio on:
Sunday, July 12
Struthers, Ohio
South Bridge Street Crossing
Arrives: 11:30 a.m. EDT
Departs: 12:00 noon EDT
Monday, July 13
Rocky River, Ohio
19060 Depot Street
Arrives: 1:00 p.m. EDT
Departs: 1:30 p.m. EDT
Tuesday, July 14
Fostoria, Ohio
Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center
3101 North Township Road 47
On Display: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT
Free admission; no tickets required.
Wednesday, July 15
Continental, Ohio
Near Oak and Main Streets
Arrives: 11:30 a.m. EDT
Departs: 12:00 noon EDT
Union Pacific notes that whistle stops are generally shorter viewing opportunities, while public display events are the best chance to see Big Boy. The railroad also warns that overnight stops are closed to the public unless specifically noted, and entering those areas without permission is considered trespassing.
For many Ohio families, this will be a rare chance to stand near a living piece of railroad history. Big Boy No. 4014 was restored in 2019 and now serves as a traveling ambassador for Union Pacific’s steam program.
Rail fans planning to attend should arrive early, follow local parking and traffic directions, and stay safely away from the tracks. Union Pacific’s schedule is subject to change, so visitors should check the official Union Pacific steam schedule before traveling.
