Pullman Railroad Days

Explore the historic world of railcars and their glamorous history during Chicago’s biggest rail-themed event, Pullman Railroad Days, on May 17 and 18, 2025, in the Pullman neighborhood.

Photo courtesy of Pullman Railroad Days

Step inside elegant Pullman railroad cars from the early 20th century and learn about passenger trains, their details, and the legacy of this transportation company headquartered in Chicago.

The Railroad Days festival features exhibits, tours, live performances, model train displays, food from local restaurants and rides around the Pullman National Park in the CN Little Obie train.

Here are some fascinating background tidbits about the two historic Pullman railcars highlighted at this year’s event.:

1928 “SuitsMe”

In 1928, the Pullman Company delivered a heavy-weight railcar to the president of the Bangor & Aroostook Railroad. Upon inspecting his purchase, company president Perry Todd exclaimed, “It suits me!” For the next 75 years, the car was the exclusive rail home to every B&A executive. In 2003, it was sold to the Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad of Vermont, where it was officially named the “Suitsme.” Today, the gorgeous Pullman railcar includes a full-service kitchen, lounge, formal dining room, two state rooms and more.

1953 “Promontory Point”

Originally ordered in 1953 by the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad as a sleeping car for long-distance passenger service, the brightly colored “902 Loblolly Pine” has had many lives. In 1969, it was sold to Louisville & Nashville and used as a crew sleeper. Quickly, it became a business car for Auto-Liner in Omaha. Then, Union Pacific took control and assigned it to the Superintendent of UP’s Salt Lake Division in 1985. In 1997, it was renamed the “Promontory Point” and refurbished with period-correct fixtures and furnishings. Now owned by Bob Owen, the beautiful Pullman railcar features a lounge, a secretary’s room, a formal dining room, a full kitchen, two master bedrooms, a single bedroom and an open-air platform.

Pullman Railroad Days runs from 10 am-5 pm at the Pullman Exhibit Hall, 11141 S. Cottage Grove. Grab early bird tickets for $25 here.

Regular tickets are $35 and children under 12 receive free admission.