WEST CHICAGO, Illinois – In a historic journey that has rail enthusiasts buzzing with excitement, Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, is embarking on its inaugural tour of the East Coast. This iconic locomotive is part of the grand festivities leading up to America’s 250th birthday celebration.
Big Boy No. 4014 made a notable entrance into Illinois this week, marking the start of Union Pacific’s America 250 tour. This extensive multi-state expedition will see the legendary engine travel through Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania, culminating in a grand arrival in Philadelphia just in time for the Fourth of July celebrations.
On Tuesday, the tracks in Sterling, Illinois, were lined with eager onlookers as the locomotive made its way through the town. This stop was just one of the numerous whistle-stops planned along its route, each offering a unique opportunity for fans to witness this marvel of engineering up close.
As it thundered past, spectators gathered, capturing moments of a lifetime. “I’ve always loved trains. It’s just the history of it,” one captivated visitor shared with Fox News, encapsulating the sentiment of many who turned out to witness the spectacle.
“I’ve always loved trains. It’s just the history of it,” one visitor told Fox News.
Others traveled across state lines for the chance to see the locomotive in person.
“It’s huge. It’s beautiful,” said Wisconsin resident Brandon Becker.
Big Boy No. 4014 was built in 1941 to haul heavy freight through the mountains of the American West. Union Pacific says 25 Big Boy locomotives were originally built, but No. 4014 is the only one operating today.
The locomotive weighs nearly 1.1 million pounds and stretches more than 130 feet long. It was restored to operating condition in 2019 after spending decades on public display.
Visitors were also able to get an up-close look at the locomotive during a public display event in West Chicago on Wednesday before it continued east.
Steam rises from Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 during a whistle-stop in Sterling, Illinois, June 2, 2026. (Olivianna Calmes)
“I took the day off just to see the train because I just love it,” Marcia Simler said.
The locomotive’s route is part of Union Pacific’s broader effort to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. According to the railroad, the America 250 tour includes more than 50 whistle stops and public display events across 10 states.
Inside the cab, crew members monitor pressure, water and fire systems that power the massive steam engine. The locomotive continues to operate using steam technology first developed more than a century ago while drawing crowds of modern-day rail enthusiasts at each stop.
For many visitors, the attraction is equal parts engineering and history.
Ed Dickes, senior manager of Heritage Operations for Union Pacific Railroad, inside the cab of Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 during a whistle-stop in Sterling, Illinois, on June 2, 2026. (Olivianna Calmes)
“Stirring patriotic feelings in me, that’s for sure,” John Bollig said.
Union Pacific says the eastern leg of the tour is being conducted in partnership with Norfolk Southern and marks the first time Big Boy has traveled to the East Coast.
The tour is scheduled to continue through Pennsylvania before arriving in Philadelphia, where the locomotive will participate in events tied to the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
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