The American Freedom Train traveled 25,388 miles during the 1975–1976 Bicentennial observance.
The train launched in Wilmington, Delaware, on April 1, 1975, beginning a 21-month tour of the 48 contiguous states. Its journey brought historical artifacts and exhibitions to communities across the country as part of the lead-up to the 1976 Bicentennial.
The train was designed as a traveling museum rather than merely a ceremonial railway. Visitors could see objects connected with American history, culture, government, and technology. Its route made the national celebration accessible beyond the major host cities.
The 48-state figure refers to the contiguous United States, not the full modern state count. Alaska and Hawaii had joined the Union by then, but the train's published tour description specifically identifies the lower 48 states.