It has been a long process to get the $5 million facility designed, constructed and filled with interesting exhibits, but on February 22 Bathurst Regional Council could finally open it to the public.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said that during the first week there had been more than 1000 visits.

"Council is very pleased with the visitation," he said.

"It has been a good mix of locals and visitors from across NSW and Australia."

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On top of the great numbers for opening week, people have been really impressed with what they've seen.

"Feedback has been very positive," Cr Bourke said.

"People are amazed with the content and the restoration of the historic building with its new extensions.

"Visitors are surprised at the size of the layout and how the interactive light and audio visual display brings it to life.

"Families love the children's space. One family purchased an annual pass and have visited the museum every day since opening."

The cafe has also been a hit with patrons, who Cr Bourke said are enjoying the coffee and food served in the old wooden carriage.

The Bathurst Rail Museum is open six days a week between 9am and 4.30pm, only closing on Thursdays.

These opening hours are consistent with the hours across all of the city's museums, which were recently changed with the launch of the Museums Bathurst unit.

"The new opening hours of the museums have been received well," Cr Bourke said.

In addition to visiting the museum, people can also be part of the storytelling of the facility by purchasing a plaque.

The replica brass engine plates, which come in varying sizes, can be engraved with their name and put on display in the facility.

"There is a strong interest in the plaques with the first batch already on display with the next batch coming soon," Cr Bourke said.

"People can now come to the museum and purchase a plaque at the front counter."

Bathurst Rail Museum is at 126 Havannah Street.