B&O Unlocked: B&O No. 3316 “Washington” Observation Tavern Car

Name: B&O Unlocked: B&O No. 3316 “Washington” Observation Tavern Car
Start: 2026-02-25T10:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-02-25T16:00:00-05:00
Location: 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD, United States, Maryland 21223

Schedule

Wed Feb 25 2026 at 10:00 am to 04:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD, United States, Maryland 21223 | Baltimore, MD

America 250: B&O Unlocked
Celebrate America’s Story—One Railcar at a Time
The B&O Railroad Museum’s annual Unlocked series returns—this year with a special tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. Each month, step inside a different piece of rail history and experience the stories that helped build a nation. In honor of this milestone, American Freedom Train No. 1 will be opened twice in 2026—January and July—offering a rare chance to celebrate the spirit of freedom and innovation that defines America’s rail legacy.
You’ll also have the opportunity to step inside the newly restored B&O No. 3316 “Washington” Observation Tavern Car.
Become a B&O Member and receive free admission for each collection piece. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the doors on these historic pieces!

B&O No. 3316 “Washington” Observation Tavern Car:
Wednesday 2/25, Saturday 2/28, Sunday 3/1 (10 am – 4 pm)
Observation cars like the Washington epitomized the height of luxury travel. The No. 3316 was placed at the end of the train to provide panoramic views. Passengers sat comfortably in this air-conditioned lounge, listening to recorded music and radio programs. A B&O Waiter-In-Charge would prepare and deliver drinks while Pullman Porters tended to those in the sleeping cars further up the train. Both Pullman and B&O service staff were predominately African American. These jobs were highly coveted, well respected, and credited with supporting the emergence of a Black middle class.
Exuding elegance and luxury, this car is notable for its streamlined, art deco design. Art deco combined fine craftsmanship, opulent materials, and bold geometric forms. Streamlining emerged from the art deco movement in the 1930s–40s and is defined by aerodynamic shapes, long horizontal lines, and nautical themes.
The interior and exterior restoration of this car was completed by museum staff in 2026. This project was made possible in part by funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Baltimore National Heritage Area through the City of Baltimore general obligation bond program, and the National Railway Historical Society.