To be "THE railroad museum of Kansas", dedicated to recording and exhibiting the importance of railroad transportation in the human, agricultural, commercial and industrial heritage of Wichita, Kansas and the Great Plains.

To showcase that heritage with an "action display" of rail equipment operation, giving visitors an exciting learning experience through motion, set in an unique, historic and scenic urban location.

To enhance the action display: with significant and appropriate railroad locomotives, rolling stock, equipment and structures; through interpretive displays, dioramas, exhibits and media; presenting educational, community programs.