June 8, 2026
By Hornell Partners For Growth Director Val Whitehill
LEGENDARY UNION PACIFIC BIG BOY NO. 4014 COMING TO HORNELL ON JUNE 11
World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive to Make Rare Whistle Stop at Hornell Erie Depot Museum
HORNELL, NY — One of the most iconic locomotives in American history is coming to Hornell.
The legendary Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, will make a special stop in Hornell on Thursday, June 11, 2026, as part of its rare Northeast tour celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary. The massive locomotive is scheduled to arrive at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum, 111 Loder Street, at approximately 2:00 PM and depart at 2:30 PM. Please note that everyone is required to stay 25-feet away from the tracks at all times.
Built in 1941, Big Boy No. 4014 weighs an incredible 1.2 million pounds, stretches approximately 133 feet long, and is the only operating locomotive of its kind in the world. The Big Boy’s appearance in Hornell is part of a highly anticipated Northeast route that includes only a handful of New York communities. Although no single local organization is hosting the event, community partners throughout Hornell have come together to help welcome visitors, provide information, offer food and entertainment, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending this historic stop.
The locomotive’s visit is expected to draw thousands of rail enthusiasts, families, photographers, and visitors from across New York and neighboring states, making it one of the largest visitor events in the region this summer. Visitors will have the opportunity to view this historic steam giant during its 30-minute stop at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum. To help celebrate the occasion, live music will be provided by Tin Lizard, and food vendors will be available throughout the area.
Live music by Tin Lizard will play near the museum, food will be available along Loder Street – Pat’s, Marino’s, Stop & Shop, Sakura Sushi Buffet, and Biggie’s Food Truck will be located near Forever Young Fitness from 11:00 AM until 1:00 AM.
IMPORTANT PARKING, TRAFFIC & SAFETY INFORMATION
Due to the expected crowds, parking will be extremely limited throughout Hornell, and that Loder Street from Broadway to Jane will be closed off to traffic. Some parking lots in the area will be restricted to employee’s and emergency vehicles only. Visitors are strongly encouraged to arrive early, carpool when possible, and be prepared to walk from available parking locations. Significant traffic congestion is expected throughout the City of Hornell beginning several hours before the locomotive’s arrival and continuing after its departure. Motorists should allow extra travel time, expect delays near the rail corridor, and consider alternate routes when possible.
Please follow all directions from law enforcement, railroad personnel, and event volunteers. Remain 25 feet away from the tracks at all time to ensure you are at a safe distance from all railroad tracks and equipment, Never cross tracks except at designated crossings. Reminder that children should remain with parents or guardians at all times. Please be respectful of private property and do not park in areas that block driveways, businesses, or emergency access routes. For updates, parking information, traffic advisories, and event announcements, please visit the Events section of the Hornell Partners for Growth Facebook page. Information will be updated as it becomes available leading up to the event.
EVENT SUMMARY
What: Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 Whistle Stop
When: Thursday, June 11, 2026
Arrival: Approximately 2:00 PM
Departure: 2:30 PM
Where: Hornell Erie Depot Museum
111 Loder Street
Hornell, NY 14843
Cost: Free to Attend
MEDIA CONTACT: Valorie Whitehill, Executive Director, Hornell Partners for Growth. Please note this is not a Hornell Partners for Growth event, I am simply pulling what information I can find to share with the community and Media contacts.
Updates as I am being told will be here: Event outline – Big Boy | Facebook
