Your One-Stop Shop
Big Boy Fostoria Information HQ
As we prepare for Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014’s return to Fostoria from Monday, July 13 through Wednesday, July 15, this page serves as your central source for public viewing information, parking, transportation, community activities, maps, dining, shopping, and other visitor resources.
Important Viewing Location Information
The Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center is the official Big Boy public display location on Tuesday, July 14. You must be in a vehicle to enter and exit the facility. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic will not be permitted through the entrance or exit. Once parked inside the center, visitors may exit their vehicles and walk to the viewing area.
There will be no loop route or shuttle service to the Norfolk Southern viewing site.
Help Keep Fostoria Moving
Thousands of visitors are expected throughout the day. To give as many people as possible the opportunity to experience Big Boy No. 4014, visitors should first drive to the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center, park, view the locomotive, and then exit the facility when their visit is complete.
After you have finished viewing Big Boy, continue your day at one of Fostoria’s other activity areas. Parking and loop route access will be available at Fostoria Memorial Stadium and Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School. Visitors can also explore Downtown Fostoria, the Iron Triangle Rail Park, local restaurants, shops, attractions, and family activities.
Moving to the next activity area after viewing Big Boy helps the next group of visitors enter the facility while also supporting the businesses, organizations, and community activities happening throughout Fostoria.
Start Here
Watch the Step-by-Step Visitor Guide
Planning to visit Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 in Fostoria? This video walks you through the public viewing location, parking, the loop route, Downtown Fostoria family activities, the Mini Rail Fest, the unofficial world record attempt, and important safety reminders.
What You’ll Learn
- How to enter and exit the official Big Boy viewing location
- Where to park after visiting the Norfolk Southern facility
- How the continuous loop route will operate
- What is happening in Downtown Fostoria
- What to expect at the Iron Triangle Mini Rail Fest
- How the unofficial world record attempt will work
- What to bring for a comfortable day in Fostoria
Watch before traveling for a complete walkthrough of the July 14 visitor experience.
Already on the road? Keep scrolling for parking maps, viewing-site layouts, local activities, visitor guidelines, and frequently asked questions.
Big Boy Visit Timeline
Monday, July 13
Big Boy Arrives
Big Boy No. 4014 travels into Fostoria. Arrival times and train movements are subject to change.
Tuesday, July 14
Public Display & Activities
Public display from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Downtown Fostoria family activities, the Iron Triangle Mini Rail Fest, and the unofficial world record attempt.
Wednesday, July 15
Big Boy Departs
Big Boy leaves Fostoria. The departure is the only expected opportunity to watch the locomotive moving from the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Plan Your Arrival
July 14 Parking & Transportation
All parking is first come, first served. Street parking is available throughout Fostoria where legally permitted. Visitors may use any of the designated parking areas below to reach Downtown Fostoria, the Iron Triangle Rail Park, local businesses, and community activities.
The Big Boy Viewing Site Is Separate
To view Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, visitors must drive directly to the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center. The parking areas and loop route listed below do not provide access to the official viewing site.
There is no loop route or shuttle service to the Norfolk Southern facility.
Important Visitor Flow
First, drive to the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center to view Big Boy No. 4014. After leaving the display, park at Fostoria Memorial Stadium, Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School, or another public parking location before continuing to the Iron Triangle Rail Park, Downtown Fostoria, local businesses, and family activities.
Loop Route Map
Tap or click the loop route map to enlarge.
The loop route will operate continuously from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Vehicles will remain in continuous movement and will not follow a set schedule.
Loop Route Stops
Stop #1: Fostoria Memorial Stadium
530 Stadium Dr., Fostoria, OH 44830
Preferred parking location with loop route pickup and drop off.
View on Google Maps
Stop #2: Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School
1001 Park Ave., Fostoria, OH 44830
Preferred parking location with loop route pickup and drop off.
View on Google Maps
Stop #3: Downtown Fostoria
Across from United Way of Fostoria, 115 S. Main St., Fostoria, OH 44830
East Tiffin Street in front of The UrbanWoody Brewery will be closed from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for family activities, including a trackless train, bounce house, obstacle course, basketball challenge, baseball game, football game, rainbow slide, and sno cone machine.
View on Google Maps
Stop #4: Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park
499 S. Poplar St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Mini Rail Fest activities, food trucks, railroad vendors, train viewing, parking, and loop route pickup and drop off.
View on Google MapsLoop route service will operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM between Fostoria Memorial Stadium, Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School, Downtown Fostoria, and the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park.
July 14 Parking Guide
Tap or click the parking guide to enlarge.
Iron Triangle Rail Park
Address:
499 S. Poplar St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Use: Mini Rail Fest, food trucks, railroad vendors, train viewing, and the unofficial world record attempt.
Parking: Accessible parking is available with a valid handicap placard. Additional grass parking will be available as directed by volunteers.
Downtown Fostoria
Use: Family activities, shopping, dining, attractions, and local offers.
Access: Street parking and downtown public parking areas are available where legally permitted.
Nearby: The Community Parking Lot provides convenient access to downtown restaurants, shops, activities, and the loop route.
Additional Parking Locations
Fostoria Memorial Stadium
Address:
530 Stadium Dr., Fostoria, OH 44830
Loop Route: Preferred parking location with pickup and drop off.
Distance: Approximately 1.3 miles walking or biking to the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Accessibility: Accessible parking is available with a valid handicap placard.
Community Parking Lot
Address:
309 S. Main St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Distance: Approximately 0.6 miles walking or biking to the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Nearby: Downtown restaurants, shopping, family activities, and the Downtown Fostoria loop route stop.
Foundation Park
Address:
1225 S. Union St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Distance: Approximately 1.2 miles walking or biking to the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Reminder: Parking is permitted in designated lot and grass areas only. Do not park on athletic fields or block entrances.
Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School
Address:
1001 Park Ave., Fostoria, OH 44830
Loop Route: Preferred parking location with pickup and drop off.
Distance: Approximately 2.6 miles walking or biking to the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Accessibility: Accessible parking is available with a valid handicap placard.
Experience Big Boy
More Than a Train Display
Big Boy No. 4014 will be on public display on Tuesday, July 14, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center. Visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring Fostoria while they’re here.
Public Display Location
Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center
3101 North Township Road 47
Fostoria, Ohio
Public Display Hours
Tuesday, July 14
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Continue checking this page as additional visitor information becomes available. YOU MUST BE IN A VEHICLE TO ENTER THE BIG BOY DISPLAY AREA.
Official Viewing Site
Experience Big Boy
Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 will be on public display on Tuesday, July 14, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center. Once you have experienced the locomotive, continue exploring everything happening throughout Fostoria.
Public Display Location
Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center
3101 North Township Road 47
Fostoria, Ohio
Public Display Hours
Tuesday, July 14
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Visitors must arrive in a vehicle. Once parked, you may exit your vehicle and walk to the viewing area. There is no pedestrian or bicycle access into or out of the facility.
Available On Site
- Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 public viewing
- Portable restrooms
- Drinking water
- Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific swag and information
- Accessible parking
After viewing Big Boy, please exit the facility so additional visitors may enjoy the experience before heading to Downtown Fostoria or the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Viewing Site Layout & Big Boy in Motion
Use these maps to better understand the viewing site and where you can watch Big Boy moving during its arrival and departure.
Norfolk Southern Viewing Site
Tap or click the map to enlarge.
This approximate layout shows the Big Boy viewing area, general parking, accessible parking, portable restrooms, drinking water, and the Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific information area. The layout is approximate and subject to change.
Big Boy in Motion
Tap or click the map to enlarge.
This map highlights Big Boy’s arrival on Monday, July 13, and departure on Wednesday, July 15. The Wednesday departure is the only opportunity to watch Big Boy moving from the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park. Continue checking Union Pacific’s official tracking information for schedule updates.
Make It More Than a Train Stop
What’s Happening Around Fostoria
Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014’s visit is a community-wide celebration featuring railroad history, family activities, food, shopping, local attractions, and unforgettable experiences throughout Fostoria.
Iron Triangle Mini Rail Fest
Visit the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park throughout the day for railroad-themed vendors, food trucks, community organizations, train viewing, and activities.
The Rail Park will also serve as the site of Fostoria’s unofficial world record attempt to create the Largest Human Image of a Train.
Location:
499 S. Poplar St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Downtown Fostoria Family Fun
East Tiffin Street in front of The UrbanWoody Brewery will be closed from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for family activities.
Activities include a trackless train, bounce house, obstacle course, basketball challenge, baseball game, football game, rainbow slide, and sno cone machine.
Visitors are encouraged to explore Downtown Fostoria’s restaurants, shops, attractions, and special offers while enjoying the activities.
Eat, Shop & Explore
Local restaurants, retailers, attractions, and organizations are extending hours, offering special menu items, creating train-themed merchandise, and planning unique visitor experiences.
Take time to eat, shop, explore, and support the businesses helping make the Big Boy visit a community-wide celebration.
Plan for a Full Day in Fostoria
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and lawn chairs. After viewing Big Boy, use the loop route to experience the Iron Triangle Rail Park, Downtown Fostoria, family activities, local businesses, and everything happening throughout the community.
History in the Making
Largest Human Image of a Train
More than 1,000 people have registered to take part in Fostoria’s unofficial world record attempt to create the Largest Human Image of a Train at the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Registration Is Closed
The event has reached capacity, and no additional participants can be accepted. Only individuals who completed the official registration form may participate in the train formation.
Location
Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park
499 S. Poplar St.
Fostoria, OH 44830
The participant check-in area will be located near the Destination Seneca County tents inside the Rail Park.
Important Times
Participant Check-In
Begins at approximately 3:30 PM
Participant Placement
Participants will be assigned to a specific section of the train formation during check-in.
Official Photo
Scheduled for approximately 4:30 PM
What Registered Participants Need to Know
Check In
Visit the Destination Seneca County tents and provide your first and last name to a volunteer.
Receive Your Section
Volunteers will assign you to a section of the train formation. Please remember your section and follow all volunteer instructions.
Pick Up Your Shirt
The first 400 registered participants will receive their complimentary 2XL event shirt. Preordered shirts in other sizes may also be picked up.
Be in Place by 4:30 PM
After checking in, enjoy the vendors, food trucks, restrooms, and Rail Park activities, but return to your assigned section before the official photo.
What to Wear
Participants who are not receiving a complimentary shirt and did not preorder an event shirt must wear a plain black shirt.
Wearing black will help keep the formation consistent and make the human train image stand out in the final photograph.
Event Shirt Reminder
Additional shirts will not be available for purchase at the Rail Park on the day of the event.
Only complimentary shirts for the first 400 participants and previously purchased shirts will be distributed at check-in.
Arrive Prepared
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a lawn chair. Please be patient during check-in and participant placement as volunteers organize more than 1,000 people into the train formation.
Tap or click the image to enlarge.
Experience the Legend Photo Contest
Capture the Big Boy Experience
Share your favorite photos from Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014’s visits to Fostoria for a chance to win exclusive Big Boy 4014 Fostoria merchandise and commemorative items.
Whether you photographed the locomotive, crowds, local businesses, community activities, railroad history, or the excitement surrounding America’s 250th celebration, we want to see the experience through your eyes.
Photos from the June 6 and July 14 visits, along with the surrounding arrival and departure days, are eligible. Winners will be selected by a judging panel, and a People’s Choice winner will be determined through public voting on Facebook.
Submission deadline: July 31, 2026
Prizes will be mailed directly to the winners.
What to Submit
Submit photographs that capture the full Big Boy experience in Fostoria, including the locomotive, public viewing, Rail Park activities, Downtown Fostoria, local businesses, families, volunteers, railroad fans, and community celebrations.
Eligible Dates
Photos taken during the June 6 and July 14 visits, as well as Big Boy’s arrival and departure surrounding those dates, are eligible for consideration.
How Winners Are Selected
A judging panel will select contest winners. A separate People’s Choice winner will be selected through public voting on the Destination Seneca County Facebook page.
Know Before You Go
Big Boy Experience Guidelines
Help us make Big Boy No. 4014’s return to Fostoria safe, enjoyable, and memorable for visitors, volunteers, railroad personnel, local businesses, and the entire community.
Do
- Stay at least 25 feet back from railroad tracks.
- Follow directions from event staff, volunteers, law enforcement, and railroad personnel.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and lawn chairs.
- Use designated parking areas and follow volunteer instructions.
- Explore the Big Boy viewing site, Downtown Fostoria, and the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
- Support local restaurants, shops, attractions, and businesses.
- Be patient as thousands of visitors travel throughout Fostoria.
Don’t
- Do not fly drones.
- Do not trespass on railroad or private property.
- Do not stand, sit, or walk on railroad tracks.
- Do not block streets, railroad crossings, entrances, or driveways.
- Do not enter the Norfolk Southern viewing facility on foot or by bicycle.
- Do not park on athletic fields or outside designated parking areas.
- Do not litter.
Iron Triangle Rail Park
Camping Restrictions
Temporary restrictions will be in place at the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park during the July Big Boy visit. Camping, RVs, campers, trailers, and other large vehicles will not be permitted during the restricted dates so the Rail Park can accommodate visitors, vendors, volunteers, and event operations.
Restricted Dates
July 13 through July 15
Visitors must remove RVs, campers, trailers, and other large vehicles from the Rail Park before the restrictions begin.
Thank you for your cooperation as Fostoria prepares to welcome thousands of visitors.
Railroad Safety Comes First
Big Boy No. 4014 will be operating on active railroad lines. Always assume tracks are active, remain in public viewing areas, and never enter railroad property unless specifically directed by authorized personnel.
Camping Restrictions
Temporary restrictions will be in place at the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park during the July Big Boy visit. Camping, RVs, campers, and other large vehicles will not be permitted during the restricted dates to help accommodate visitors and event operations.
Restricted Dates
July 13 through July 15
Visitors should remove RVs, campers, and other large vehicles from the Rail Park before these dates.
Thank you for your cooperation as we prepare to welcome thousands of visitors to Fostoria.
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Review the answers below before traveling to Fostoria for Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014. Visitors are encouraged to watch the step-by-step guide and review the parking maps before arriving.
Where should I go first?
Drive directly to the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center to view Big Boy No. 4014. The official display location is at 3101 North Township Road 47 in Fostoria.
After you have finished viewing Big Boy, exit the facility and park at Fostoria Memorial Stadium, Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School, or another public parking area. You can then use the continuous loop route to explore Downtown Fostoria and the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
When will Big Boy No. 4014 be in Fostoria?
Big Boy No. 4014 is expected to arrive in Fostoria on Monday, July 13. The public display will take place on Tuesday, July 14, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The locomotive is scheduled to leave Fostoria on Wednesday, July 15.
Where is the official public display?
The official public display will take place at the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center at 3101 North Township Road 47, Fostoria, Ohio.
Can I walk or ride a bicycle into the viewing site?
No. Visitors must enter and exit the Norfolk Southern facility in a vehicle. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic will not be permitted through the entrance or exit. Once parked inside the facility, visitors may exit their vehicles and walk to the viewing area.
Will there be shuttle or loop route service to the Big Boy viewing site?
No. There will be no shuttle or loop route service to the Norfolk Southern Fostoria Automotive Distribution Center. Visitors must drive directly to the facility to view Big Boy.
How will the loop route operate?
The loop route will operate continuously from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Vehicles will not follow a set schedule.
The four stops are Fostoria Memorial Stadium, Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School, Downtown Fostoria, and the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Where should I park for the loop route?
The preferred parking locations are Fostoria Memorial Stadium and Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School . Both locations are loop route stops.
Additional parking is available at the Community Parking Lot, Foundation Park, the Iron Triangle Rail Park, and throughout Downtown Fostoria where legally permitted.
What will be available at the Norfolk Southern viewing site?
The viewing site is expected to include portable restrooms, drinking water, accessible parking, and Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific information and merchandise.
The site layout is approximate and may change based on event operations.
What is happening at the Iron Triangle Rail Park?
The Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park will host the Mini Rail Fest with food trucks, railroad vendors, community organizations, merchandise, train viewing, and other activities.
The Rail Park will also host Fostoria’s unofficial world record attempt to create the Largest Human Image of a Train.
What is happening in Downtown Fostoria?
East Tiffin Street in front of The UrbanWoody Brewery will be closed from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for family activities.
Activities include a trackless train, bounce house, obstacle course, basketball challenge, baseball game, football game, rainbow slide, and sno cone machine.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore Downtown Fostoria restaurants, shops, attractions, and special offers.
Can I still register for the unofficial world record attempt?
No. Registration has reached capacity and is closed. Only individuals who completed the official registration form may participate in the train formation.
When should registered world record participants arrive?
Check-in is expected to begin at approximately 3:30 PM near the Destination Seneca County tents at the Iron Triangle Rail Park.
The official aerial photograph is scheduled for approximately 4:30 PM. Participants must be in their assigned sections before the photograph is taken.
What should world record participants wear?
The first 400 registered participants will receive a complimentary 2XL event shirt. Participants who are not receiving a complimentary shirt and did not preorder another size must wear a plain black shirt.
Additional shirts will not be available for purchase at the event.
Can I watch Big Boy moving from the Iron Triangle Rail Park?
The Wednesday, July 15 departure is the only expected opportunity to watch Big Boy moving from the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park.
Arrival and departure schedules are subject to change. Visitors should use Union Pacific’s official tracking information for the latest updates.
Can I bring an RV or camper to the Iron Triangle Rail Park?
No. Camping, RVs, campers, trailers, and other large vehicles will not be permitted at the Rail Park from July 13 through July 15.
Are drones permitted?
No. Drones are not permitted. Visitors must also remain off railroad tracks and railroad property, stay at least 25 feet away from active tracks, and follow directions from railroad personnel, law enforcement, volunteers, and event staff.
Will local businesses and restaurants be open?
Yes. Local restaurants, retailers, attractions, and organizations are offering extended hours, special food and drink items, train-themed merchandise, family activities, and visitor promotions.
Visit the Big Boy Local Events and Offers page for the current list.
What should I bring?
Visitors are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and lawn chairs. Prepare for warm weather, walking, crowds, and time spent outdoors.
Where can I find schedule and tracking updates?
BigBoyFostoria.com will continue to serve as the central source for local parking, transportation, activity, safety, and visitor information.
For official locomotive schedule and tracking updates, use Union Pacific’s steam tracking resources.
Continue Your Visit
Keep Exploring
Experience the Legend. Experience Fostoria. Continue planning your visit and discover even more events, attractions, dining, shopping, and America 250 celebrations happening throughout Seneca County.
Community Calendar
Looking for even more to do while you are in Fostoria? Explore community events, festivals, live entertainment, attractions, and activities happening throughout Seneca County.
Red, White & Big Boy
Continue the America 250 celebration by exploring historical programs, commemorative activities, special events, and community experiences happening throughout Seneca County.
Experience the Legend. Experience Fostoria.
We Can’t Wait to Welcome You to Fostoria
Thank you for joining us as we welcome Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 back to Fostoria. We hope you will experience the legend, explore our community, support local businesses, and create memories that will last a lifetime.