Golden Spike


Grumman Rocket Garden

Welcome, fellow Model A enthusiasts! Get ready for an unforgettable day as we embark on a day tour to the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden and the Golden Spike National Historic Site.

Our adventure kicks off with a 2-hour bus journey, it is advisable to bring some snacks along, as there are no food amenities available at the Rocket Garden or Promontory Summit.

Our first destination will be the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden. This unique attraction showcases a display of rockets and space-related artifacts, providing insight into the fascinating world of space exploration and technology.

After our visit to the Rocket Garden, we’ll make our way to the Golden Spike National Historic Site for the second leg of our journey. Promontory Summit is renowned for being the location where the First Transcontinental Railroad was completed. The iconic golden spike was driven into the ground here on May 10, 1869, connecting the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads. This event marked a pivotal moment in American history, uniting the East and West coasts and transforming transportation and commerce across the nation. During our visit, you’ll have the opportunity to witness replicas of the original locomotives – the Jupiter and No. 119 – which played a crucial role in this historic moment. Please note that during this time of year, the steam locomotives will be undergoing maintenance. However, fear not! We’ll still have the chance to see these magnificent locomotives during a guided tour of the shop, where you’ll gain insight into their fascinating history and intricate workings.

Following our historical journey, we will have a late lunch at Maddox Steakhouse in Perry, a Fine Family Dining establishment since 1949. Maddox has a taste and style all its own, boasting completely scratch recipes that have delighted patrons for generations. Renowned for their commitment to excellence, Maddox offers a diverse menu featuring steaks, bison, and their unique skinless famous fried chicken.

As the sun sets, we’ll make our final trip back to the hotel, carrying with us memories of a day filled with space exploration, railroad history, and culinary delights. Get ready to be captivated by the wonders of the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden and the historic significance of the Golden Spike National Historic Site.

Golden Spike Recreation
Laying of the last rail