Scenic Train Rides By State

Scenic train rides are one of the great pastimes and can be found scattered throughout the country, from Florida to California. Presented here is information on how to find a tourist railroad near you.

While Amtrak still offers the chance to travel from city-to-city and commuter services fulfill an essential need within large metropolitan areas, neither provides the nostalgia of railroading's "Golden Age."

History

What To Expect

State Guide

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

Christmas

Premier Experiences

More than a half-century ago one could board a flagship service like Pennsylvania Railroad's legendary Broadway Limited at New York's illustrious Pennsylvania Station and enjoy a lap of luxury during a 16-hour journey to Chicago.

The mighty PRR spared no expense in stocking its top service with every amenity imaginable, from freshly prepared five-star meals to full bedrooms.

The train's other noteworthy perks included air-conditioning and a fully-staffed crew provided by the iconic Pullman Company. But the PRR was not alone, many other railroads, such as the New York Central, Santa Fe, and Union Pacific, offered their own level of opulence.

History

Tailoring to a traveler's every needs some of these trains provided a secretary, nurse, domes for maximum viewing, and even a barber.

Such indulgences cannot be found on Amtrak. However, a few, like dome cars and full-course meals, have made their way to the scenic train ride industry. Within this section you can learn more about a few of these organizations and where they are located.

The scenic train ride concept is not new although it has certainly gained popularity over the last few decades. The oldest organization dedicated to preserving rail history is the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society, Inc. founded in 1921.

The R&LHS remains an active group and you can visit their website by clicking here. Before modern scenic railroads were born enthusiasts sponsored these trips directly on the railroads.

Many companies were happy to host such events before rising insurance premiums and the fear of ligation largely ended the practice.

The trips were not limited to big-name roads like the Southern Pacific, Santa Fe, Burlington, New Haven, Nickel Plate Road, or Baltimore & Ohio. Several small carriers also operated such excursions, names like the Western Maryland, Virginian, and Reading.

It all began in 1934 when the first "fan trip" was hosted by the Massachusetts Bay Railroad Enthusiasts, Inc. along the Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroad (this system was abandoned long ago but the MBRE still exists).

In his article from the September, 1969 issue of Trains Magazine entitled "Are These People Embalmers Or Enthusiasts?," noted editor David P. Morgan described the term "railfan" quite poignantly.

It carries a range of subcategories, from photography to model trains, but general refers those who simply enjoy the subject of railroads.

Various clubs/organizations sprang up throughout the 1930s, '40s, and '50s. These groups rose in number as many railroads disappeared after the 1970's.

There were 65 such groups in 1934 and 96 by 1959 as noted by the "The Railfan, Inc." (edited by Rosemary Entringer) featured in the June, 1959 issue of Trains Magazine. The next important organization was the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS), formed in 1935.

The NRHS acted as a franchising operation with various chapters formed across the country, many of which are still around today.

But again, the modern movement of museums and scenic train rides sprang up in postwar times as nostalgia took hold when diesels replaced steam and railroads disappeared through merger.

The popular "fan trips" peaked after World War II when, as Mr. Morgan points out, some clubs tried to sponsor as many as five excursions at a time, all with different railroads.

One of the last great adventures at this time were the popular "Iron Horse Rambles" hosted by coal-hauler Reading between October 25, 1959 and October 17, 1964.

The trips were pulled by one of their powerful 4-8-4's, listed Class T-1. Three of these steamers participated in the events (#2100, #2102 and #2124) during a total of fifty "Rambles" operated over a five-year period.

In another article from Mr. Morgan entitled, "Reading's Rambles: How And Why Would A Railroad Partially De-dieselize?" presented in the April, 1961 issue of Trains Magazine, he detailed the program during its height.

In an era when such things truly mattered, then-president Joseph A. Fisher wanted to boost the company's public image.

He felt steam-powered excursions offered the best chance of success, an assessment which proved correct! There were problems with the logistics, however.

The Reading had retired its last steam locomotive in early 1957 and two years later contained only two extant coaling towers (one at Reading and the other in Rutherford, Pennsylvania).

The railroad did have a few of its large and powerful 4-8-4's still on the property although the T-1's were too large to fit within Reading Terminal (Philadelphia).

Nevertheless, Fisher pushed forward with the "Iron Horse Rambles" concept. The first returned to service was #2124. As Mr. Morgan notes, Reading had to look outside the train enthusiast hobby to fill a 975-seat train, hoping that it could at least break-even on the trips.

To do this the excursions were heavily marketed on radio and television, as well as promoted at Trains Magazine. In addition, the railroad offered themed rides to further increase ridership.

Some of these included holiday specials (during warmer months), a fall foliage run, traveling to the historic Gettysburg battlefields, and even a "Touch Of Old Dutch Day" trip to Schwenksville, Pennsylvania (abandoned today). While not every run was a success, particularly during the holidays, trains were typically filled with over 900 passengers.

The all-time record was a Philadelphia-West Milton "Ramble" held on October 15, 1960. On that day the consist was double-headed by #2124 and #2100 and the pair pulled 22 cars containing 1,321 patrons!

The 1960's signaled the last great period of fan trips as railroads focused attention in other areas, particularly discontinuing passenger services, the merger movement, and simply survival.

Over the next few decades a handful of memorable excursions were run, ranging from the American Freedom Train and Chessie Steam Special to Southern Railway's steam program, maintained into the Norfolk Southern era until 1994 (renewed again between 2011-2015 albeit without NS-owned locomotives).

What To Expect

Before embarking on your trip you might want to learn more about the scenic railroads in which you are interested. If you are simply interested in a train ride, you are sure to enjoy any of them! However, if you are looking for a little more there many options to choose from.

Are you interested primarily in a trip with spectacular scenery or one in which a fine meal is served?

For instance, California's Napa Valley Wine Train offers some of the best on-board dining anywhere in the country while West Virginia's tiny Durbin & Greenbrier Valley "Rocket" operates predominately with open-air cars to allow for maximum viewing.

You can also catch murder mystery specials at other locations while themed rides during the holidays are also a big hit, particularly during the Christmas season.

Finally, there is a reason why names like the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge, Strasburg, and White Pass & Yukon Route draw the biggest crowds as their rides are first-class operations providing incredible views with numerous amenities available.

The truth is that while enthusiasts are sometimes looked down upon by society, without them there would be no Strasburg Railroad (one of America's most popular excursions located in Pennsylvania's Amish community), Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge in Colorado, or the White Pass & Yukon Route in Alaska.

These folks, many working as volunteers, do it all for love of the hobby. The Strasburg was originally built as a short-line freight carrier but shutdown in 1957.

In 1959 a group of railfans purchased the defunct short line and began operating excursions. Today, the railroad is a mostly all-steam with authenticity a key to its success.

In recent years it began hauling freight once more and also performs car and locomotive repairs. Scenic train rides operated today carry many similarities to those hosted decades ago.

Tourist companies have been successful at exploiting niches, like dinner train themes, trips for Christmas ("The Polar Express" rides have proven especially popular since Warner Brothers' 2004 acclaimed movie, based from Chris Van Allsburg's 1985 children's book), and the always-popular fall foliage excursions. There are some areas, however, heritage railroads simply cannot simulate.

Because most organizations are only a few miles in length trips last only an hour or less.

As a result, ridership is hampered. As an entertainment venue, folks want to be pampered and indulged. If a train ride is very short with few amenities it feels cheap and not worth the price.

The most successful railroads host trips lasting anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, sometimes longer! In the case of Reading's "Iron Horse Rambles" these operated anywhere from 100 to 175 miles with trains clipping along at track-speed (usually above 25-35 mph).

There was a full crew of 23, which included a boiler-maker, master mechanic, and road foreman to ensure trips went off without hitch and the locomotives were functioning properly. So many qualified personnel on a train is nearly unheard of today, simply due to cost.

Technologies, particularly the Internet and social media, have greatly enhanced marketing in the modern age but Reading's fully-staffed public relations department worked wonders at spreading the word.

They even went to incredible lengths into identifying the best photographic locations for railfans No Class I railroad would ever bother doing such things today!

State Guide

Delaware

This tourist line has grown into a popular attraction since it first began in 1966 on a former Baltimore & Ohio branch.

Today it operates 10.2 miles between Wilmington and Hockessin and continues to pull trains with steam locomotives.

The history of railroading in the Red Clay Valley begins with the chartering of the original Wilmington & Western Railroad in 1867, intended to push rails along the creek and handle freight to the Port of Wilmington.

After only five years of construction the line was opened between Wilmington and Landenberg, Pennsylvania on October 19, 1872.

While less than 20 miles in length the corridor provided connections with the Baltimore & Ohio and Pennsylvania Railroads while offering a respectable level of freight.

Unfortunately, bankruptcy still found the company in 1877 and it was later reorganized under new management as the Delaware Western Railroad (DWRR).

For a time even passenger traffic was quite strong thanks to the opening of a popular resort at Brandywine Springs.

The prosperous years, however, survived only until the early 1920s; in 1923 the resort closed causing a great loss of passenger business and the Great Depression ended all passenger trains after September 28, 1930.

Alas, the line's biggest blow also came during the depression when the PRR elected to discontinue service to Landenberg resulting in a significant loss of freight business.

As a result, the B&O cut the branch back to Southwood during the early World War II era which left a route consisting of 11.3 miles.

The 1960s saw the beginnings of what later became today's popular Wilmington & Western. In 1966 the Historic Red Clay Valley, Inc., using the former W&W's name, leased part of the line to host steam-powered excursions during the weekend.

This continued for about a decade until the Chessie System, a conglomerate comprising the B&O, Chesapeake & Ohio, and Western Maryland, opted to abandon the line.

Fortunately, thanks to local fundraising efforts Historic Red Clay Valley was able to purchase the entire property in 1982.

Since then, the W&W has steadily grown in popularity although it has experienced its own setbacks thanks to Mother Nature's wrath. Throughout the year they also host several special events.

Hawaii

The Hawaiian Railway Society, based in Ewa on the island of Oahu, operates short 90-minute scenic train rides on a former stretch of the Oahu Railway & Land Company (OR&L).

During the journey you will hear about the history of this railroad and the sugar cane operations that were once prolific in the area.

According to Dr. Hilton's book, the OR&L was chartered by Benjamin Franklin Dillingham on September 11, 1888, a franchise signed into law by King Kalakaua.

Its purpose was to serve sugar plantations, opening its first segment between Aiea and Honolulu on September 16, 1889 (9 miles).

In the succeeding years it headed west, followed the coast, and reached Kaena Point on June 1, 1898. The railroad eventually wrapped its way around the island and terminated at Kahuku on December 28, 1898, interchanging there with the Koolau Railway.

In 1906 it completed one notable a branch, an 11-mile spur from Waipahu Junction at Pearl Harbor to Wahiawa which served a pineapple plantation.

This line was later extended to a connection with the main line near Waialua during World War II for defensive measures.

The Kauai Plantation Railway is based in Lihue on the island of Kauai. A relatively new tourist train it operates a 2.5-mile section of former Kauai Railway.

This small system was established in 1906 by the Theodore H. Davies & Company to serve sugar mills situated along the island's southern shore.

It would eventually open an 11-mile route running eastward from Eleele Landing (Port Allen) to the Koloa Mill with another short branch (2 miles) serving the town of Koloa.

In addition, it utilized trackage to the west owned by the McBryde Sugar Company and Hawaiian Sugar Company to serve the Makaweli Sugar Mill.

The railroad was built to the odd width of 2-feet, 6-inches but did carry common-carrier status (although few passengers ever rode its trains). It was a short-lived affair and was abandoned in 1933.

Today's tourist attraction operates with a Whitcomb diesel locomotive but plans to restore steam locomotives that were original to the narrow-gauge.

The Pineapple Express, located in Wahiawa on the island of Oahu, provides train rides at the Dole Plantation. This attraction offers a wide range of things to do from tours of the property to scenic train rides on their Pineapple Express.

The excursion uses open-air cars powered by a three narrow-gauge "steam locomotives" (3-foot), although all three are actually diesel-powered.

The two-mile trip lasts about 20 minutes and provides narration of the plantation and its history. There are two different rides available named the Pineapple Express, and Aloha Express.

The plantation is open nearly year-round and there is an admission required to ride the train.

Indiana

The Hesston Steam Museum, operated by the LaPorte County Historical Steam Society and based in Hesston, is an organization dedicated to the preservation of steam-powered machines.

Among their collection are several operating narrow-gauge steam locomotives of various types, leisurely taking passengers on short trips along 2.5 miles of track. They also run scale trains of various size.

The Indiana Railway Museum, which also operates the popular French Lick Scenic Railway, is based in French Lick, Indiana. They operate a 20-mile round trip excursion over former Southern Railway trackage through the Hoosier National Forest.

Special events and excursions are also operated throughout the year such as dessert trains, Halloween specials, and the Polar Express for the Christmas season.

The Indiana Railway Museum's mission is to preserve Indiana's railroading history and the industry's in general.

The IRM features more than 65 pieces of historic railroad equipment, is proudly maintained by more than 400 members/volunteers/paid staff, and enjoys more than 25,000 visitors annually.

The history of the organization begins in 1961 when a group of locals from Westport launched a small tourist line using a diesel locomotive and three passenger coaches.

The museum moved operations in 1971 to Greensburg and again moved in 1978 to French Lick when the Southern Railway offered 16 miles of a former branch between West Baden and Dubois (passing through French Lick). Today, the museum operates about 10 miles of this line between French Lick and Cuzco.

This excursion is located in northeast Indiana with trips departing from various locations including Angola, South Milford, Pleasant Lake, and Hillsdale (Michigan). The trips are operated in a partnership between the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society and the Indiana Northeastern Railroad, the latter a short line freight carrier.

The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society is well known as being home to Nickel Plate 2-8-4 #765, a famous Berkshire type steam locomotive which has handled many public excursions for many years.

The Indiana Rail Experience runs from May through December with several special events hosted throughout the season, including fall foliage trips and Christmas trains. Visit their website for complete scheduling and available trips.

The Ohio River Scenic operates over the former Southern Railway's Cannelton Branch, running 22.7 miles from Lincoln City to Cannelton via Evanston. The line hosts freight service as the Hoosier Southern Railroad.

They offer several special excursions every year from Valentine's Day trips to Mother's Day specials, in addition to several events during the holiday season. You can also take part in a locomotive cab ride.

This attraction has grown in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to the scenery afforded throughout southern Indiana and, in particular, along the Ohio River.

What would certainly be considered one of Indiana's more popular excursions is the Whitewater Valley Railroad based in Connersville.

Like the former Carthage, Knightstown & Shirley this operation utilizes former Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis (better known as the "Big Four," a New York Central subsidiary) trackage.

Its 19-mile line connects Metamora and their trains are powered by one of several diesel locomotives on the grounds.

While there are currently no steam locomotives in use the group has several preserved. These include:

The railroad also hosts a number of special events throughout the year such as the Polar Express and "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine.

Missouri

The Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad is based in Belton, Missouri and offers a 5-mile excursion on former St. Louis-San Francisco ("Frisco") trackage.

The line was one of three the railroad once maintained between Springfield and Kansas City! Today's attraction began as the Kansas City Railroad Museum in 1964, an organization operated by the Smoky Hill Railway & Historical Society.

Following a handful of moves they settled on a location in Belton during 1995. Today, the railroad operates several seasonal specials and also offers cab rides.

Their locomotive collection includes a pair of steam locomotives on static display as well as a few diesels.

The former include Okmulgee Northern Railway 2-8-0 #5 (built by American Locomotive's Cooke Works in 1923 and St. Louis-San Francisco 2-10-0 #1632 (manufactured by Baldwin in 1918).

The group's two diesels include Chesapeake & Ohio GP9 (originally numbered 6142) and a little 25-ton switcher manufactured by the Plymouth Locomotive Works.

The Branson Scenic Railway is a tourist attraction operated in conjunction with short line freight carrier Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad between Galena and Self, Missouri (trains depart from Branson).

This particular corridor date back to 1902 when the White River Railway was founded that year. It eventually became part of the Missouri Pacific, better known by railroaders and railfans as the “MoPac.”

The Branson Scenic came about in 1993; since its inception the railroad operates either north to Galena or south to Self, depending on how the freight line's operations are playing out that particular day.

Because the trains pass through Missouri's beautiful Ozark Mountains visitors can experience passage through a number of tunnels and bridges during their journey.

Overall the railroad is quite scenic and well worth the trip through a region sometimes forgotten for its beauty and ruggedness.

This attraction is located within the Frank Vaydik Line Creek Park at Kansas City offering 16-inch-gauge scale train rides.

The all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit organization was formed in 1984 when the Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department wanted the former Kansas City Zoo railroad to restore the operation.

The three diesels which normally operate are based on Electro-Motive's successful "F" series line of streamlined, cab model locomotives;

This attraction is located at Rothwell Park in Moberly offering 12-inch-gauge scale train rides on a 1-mile loop.

While there are no live steam locomotives operating they do have a nice collection of diesel locomotives which are based on actual model types.

The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Railroad is based in Jackson and since 1986 has offered a 10-mile excursion through the rolling, open countryside of southeastern Missouri.

The railroad normally uses a former Pennsylvania Railroad E8A (built as #5898-A in 1951) to pull its trains but also has 2-4-2 #5 on-hand, a steam locomotive which is currently out-of-service and under a long term restoration (it was manufactured by the H.K. Porter Company in 1946 for the Central Illinois Public Service).

The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern name is quite historic, as it formed a primary component of the modern Missouri Pacific, a system pieced together in larger part through the efforts of notorious tycoon Jay Gould.

The current tourist attraction offers a number of special runs throughout the year such as a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, "The Santa Express," and Chuck Wagon Dinners.

This little operation, maintained by the Wabash, Frisco, & Pacific Association, is another 1-foot-gauge, scale train ride, located in Glencoe.

The railroad operates miniature, live steam locomotives which power trains on a 2-mile, round trip which last about a half-hour.

The history of this attraction is much older than what most realize. The group was formed in 1939, utilizing 4-4-2 #171 which operated over about 1 mile of track on 30 acres of property near Brown Road and Natural Bridge.

Unfortunately, rising property values near what is today St. Louis Lambert International Airport forced them to move with a final run being made on July 19, 1959.

They have been based at their current location since 1961. Since that time the group has added numerous buildings, including a car barn, roundhouse, and a locomotive fleet totaling four steamers! They are open every Sunday between May and October (rain or shine!).

Nevada

The Nevada Northern Railway looks to generally preserve the history of the state's once profitable copper industry.

The railroad has been in operation (albeit not continuously) since 1905. Unfortunately, freight operations have not been performed since 1986 when the Kennecott Minerals Company turned over much of the property to the White Pine Historical Railroad.

Today, the railroad is operated as part of the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. They offer several different special train rides including BBQ Trains, wine trains, charters, the Chocolate Express, and holiday specials.

Also, between the Nevada Northern and the museum they have nine steam locomotives on-hand, five of which are operational (and two of those are original Nevada Northern locomotives).

Finally, be sure to check out their many pieces of rolling stock and locomotives on display, including several steam locomotives.

The Nevada Southern Railway is based in Boulder City, Nevada in the southern region of the state.

It operates on trackage once owned by a railroad known by the same name, a government-sponsored operation which helped construct the Hoover Dam.

Today the railroad offers a number of special rides and events throughout the year and their coaches are fully climate controlled.

The organization also houses a collection of rolling stock and locomotives, including three steam locomotives (all of which sit on display). These include:

While on the grounds also be sure and visit the Nevada State Railroad Museum's even more impressive steam collection, which currently includes six examples, three of which are operational.

The Virginia and Truckee Railway began with its 1869 chartering to provide transportation services to the Reno and Carson City areas.

While the V&T provided a means of moving vast quantities of silver ore it also offered a way to ship in lumber, men, and other materials needed to extract this product.

As mining dried up and with little other traffic available, the railroad ceased to exist by 1950.

It gained a new purpose soon after its closing as a backdrop for countless Hollywood western films, and it was then the railroad earned its popularity.

However, this too played out by the 1960s at which point most of the rails were taken up.

They began to be re-laid by the 1970s although the railroad's true rebirth began during the early 1990s when a major push was undertaken to rebuild the line as a tourist attraction.

Today, about 15 miles are operable although rebuilding of the route is not yet complete along with additional restorations of locomotives and equipment.

New Hampshire

Based in North Woodstock, New Hampshire the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train offers only trips where meals are served on-board.

The 20-mile trip operates southward to Thornton over a section of what was formerly a Boston & Maine branch.

The upscale attraction (which has been featured in TripAdvisor and even the Wall Street Journal) began in the spring of 1989 and currently utilizes three cars:

This excursions largely operate four days a week, including weekends. You can also book the train for special events or large groups.

The Conway Scenic Railroad, based in North Conway, New Hampshire is one of New England's most popular scenic train rides, offering first-class dining services through beautiful New England in the Mt. Washington Valley.

They also offer standard excursions as well as numerous seasonal trains and special events such as "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine.

The attraction's first train departed on August 4, 1974 when Bill Levy and Carroll Reed acquired a 7-mile segment of Boston & Maine's Conway Branch from Conway to Intervale.

To lead the trains former Canadian National 0-6-0 #7470 (Class O-18a, manufactured by the Grand Trunk Railway in 1921) was also acquired.

The operation was extended through Crawford Notch in late 1994 following Maine Central's abandonment of its fabled Mountain Division in 1984. This trackage is currently owned by the state of New Hampshire.

The original owners sold out to Russ and Dot Seybold in 1999, who subsequently sold their interest to the Profile Mountain Holdings Corporation in early 2018.

The Hobo Railroad, based in Lincoln, New Hampshire offers train excursions along the Pemigewasset River with trains boarding from the local town depot.

The railroad also features dinner trains and special excursions throughout the year. The attraction began in 1986 as the Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad, owned by husband and wife team, Edward and Brenda Clark.

It ran a total of 7 miles from Woodstock to Lincoln over the same trackage (ex-Boston & Maine) currently used by the Café Lafayette Dinner Train.

Over the years, the operation has expanded to the point that it now also maintains the former Boston & Maine line from Concord to Lincoln, all of which is owned by the state of New Hampshire.

This property predominantly handles excursions but the 19-mile segment from Tilton to Concord also hosts freight trains of the New England Southern Railroad.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is one, if not the, most popular such attractions in the country.

As its name implies the company offers scenic train rides traveling up Mount Washington, some of which still utilize steam power. It is the world's oldest cog railroad system dating back to the late 1860s.

The operation was conceived by Sylvester Marsh who believed the railroad would become a popular tourist attraction after he climbed New Hampshire's Mount Washington in the early 1850s.

His idea proved to be quite a success and, just like the Manitou & Pike's Peak Railway in Colorado, thousands of folks continue to descend upon Bretten Woods annually to ride the train.

Interestingly, the railroad does not scale the entire mountain but begins about a quarter of the way up with grades reaching incredible levels, peaking at 37.4%! (In regards to standard railroads, a 3% grade is considered steep!)

For much of its existence the Mt. Washington line relied on standard steam power to shove trains up the slope but today it uses cheaper, and more environmentally friendly, bio-diesel units alongside its steamers.

The White Mountain Central Railroad is based in Lincoln and departs from the local train station on a 2.5-mile excursion that usually lasts about 30 minutes.

The railroad is rare in that it operates a pair of geared steam locomotives which include Beebe River Railroad 2-Truck Climax #6 (built by the Climax Locomotive Works in 1921) and International Shoe Company 2-Truck Heisler #4 (built in 1929).

There area also two additional small steamers which are operational; East Branch & Lincoln Railroad 2-4-2ST #5 (built by Baldwin in 1906) and Koppers Company 0-4-0T #1 (a 1930 product of H.K. Porter).

Finally, the Clark Family also has East Branch & Lincoln 2-Truck Shay #5 (a 1919 product of the Lima Locomotive Works) on display. It is owned, along with the Hobo Railroad and Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train, by the Clarks.

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, based in Weirs Beach, New Hampshire offers several different excursion trains and special events throughout the year, operating on trackage once owned by the Boston & Maine Railroad.

It is yet another property owned by the Clark Family with trips running along the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee.

New Mexico

What was formerly known as the Santa Fe Southern Railway (which closed in 2014), this new excursion launched on December 3, 2021 and is based in Santa Fe along the former AT&SF branch line to Lamy.

Passenger trains board from the restored mission-style depot on 410 South Guadalupe Street in Santa Fe.

The Santa Fe Southern operation had a rollercoaster history; it was mothball between 2012-2014 and then came under new management.

This group hoped to revitalize the attraction as an upscale operation with fine dining, first-class accommodations, and other special events. However, the project fell through and operations closed again at the end of the 2014 season.

In 2020, a group of entrepreneurs purchased the property and worked for more than a year to restore the operation for continued excursion service.

They will host holiday-themed rides and other special events throughout the year with excursions centered around entertainment and a moving stage.

New York

One of the most popular scenic train rides in New York can be found at the Adirondack Railroad, first launched in 1992 as the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

Today, it operates between Utica and Thendara/Carter with work to reopen the section between the latter point and Tupper Lake. For many years the railroad had attempted to reopen the entire branch to Lake Placid, a distance of over 150 miles, but that dream was never realized before the northern section was converted into a trail.

The Adirondack offers several different special excursion trains throughout the year including their Wine Train, The Polar Express during the holidays, Halloween Trains, and even the very popular Murder Mystery trains.

The Arcade & Attica Railroad, based in Arcade, New York operates on trackage originally built and owned by the Buffalo, Attica & Arcade Railroad.

The railroad also hauls freight with its train rides running between late May and December. They host several special events throughout the season.

Another popular New York train ride is the Catskill Mountain Railroad based in Kingston. It operates on trackage built by the Ulster & Delaware Railroad, later acquired by the New York Central. It travels through the beautiful Catskill Mountain region and carried a record year recently witnessing more than 40,000 annual riders.

The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad is operated by the Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society. The group utilizes trackage originally built a railroad known as the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley. Trains operate through the upper Susquehanna River Valley and are powered by a few historic diesel locomotives.

The Delaware & Ulster Railroad, operated by the Catskill Revitalization Corporation, is based in Stamford. The system utilizes part of the same corridor (ex-New York Central) which the Catskill Mountain Railroad hosts excursions (originally built by the Ulster & Delaware Railroad).

Their trains travel through the scenic Catskill Mountain region, currently running between Roxbury to Arkville. According to the railroad:

"After a hiatus for track work, the Delaware & Ulster is scheduled to return for the summer of 2023, running through fall foliage season and potentially beyond.

Visitors will once again be able to relax on the open car or coach and will also be home to the "Silver Rose" dining train, offering delicious food and drink aboard an exquisite vintage train car.

The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is located just three hours north of New York City via the New York State Thruway. Our station and other facilities are fully accessible with ample parking for motor coaches, buses, and automobiles.

Special Instructions: Groups/passengers can call our office at (845) 586-3877 but our most up to date information will be at our website.

North Carolina

One of the more unique scenic train rides in North Carolina can be found at the Charlotte Trolley which tells the history of Charlotte's former interurban operations. The trolley operates on the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, and current has two cars operational.

Without question, the most popular of all North Carolina train rides can be found at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City.

This attraction has been in operation since 1988 using tracks once owned by the venerable Southern Railway, which the company called its Murphy Branch.

Train rides are hosted throughout much of the year although they also offer special events, such as "Thomas The Train" and holiday festivities. The railroad is covered in more detail here.

The New Hope Valley Railway, based in New Hill, hosts North Carolina train rides on trackage originally built by the New Hope Valley Railroad, which later part of the Seaboard Air Line system.

They currently have a multitude of various diesel locomotive switchers they use to power their trains along with one operable 0-4-0T steam locomotive.

The Tweetsie Railroad, based in Blowing Rock, North Carolina has been operating since 1957 and utilizes a section of the historic East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (nicknamed the "Tweetsie," this classic narrow-gauge system once served both its namesake states).

If there are two North Carolina scenic train rides you should experience it is the Tweetsie and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Today, they use 3 miles of track to host trips, most often employing their, 4-6-0 "Ten wheeler", #12, to pull excursions. A further history of the railroad can be found here at the site. Finally, for more reading about the original ET&WNC system please click here.

North Dakota

Located in Mandan (across the Missouri River from Bismarck) this organization offers a 9-mile trip along the Heart River to Fort Lincoln State Park carrying passenger in restored streetcars.

Oregon

The Eagle Cap Excursion Train, based in Elgin, operates train rides in northeast Oregon on trackage owned by the Wallowa Union Railroad Authority, a short line freight carrier.

The trains utilize RDC's (short for "Rail Diesel Cars," a self-propelled vehicle manufactured by the Budd Company) for their excursions that follow the Grande Ronde River.

This organization hosts scale-train rides (15 and 24-inch gauge equipment) and is located in Canby. Their season begins each year on Memorial Day.

Owned and operated by the Southern Oregon Railway Historical Society the park features a "1 1/2-inch scale live steam train rides, HO scale model layout, displays of full size railroad equipment used in the area, a garden railway (G scale) layout and a working exhibit of Morse telegraphy."

The Mount Hood Railroad hosts train rides between Hood River and Parkdale (about 60 miles) along a corridor that carriers a heritage dating back to 1906.

The company currently provides freight service alongside its passenger trains and offers guests a wide range of amenities within climate-controlled cars.

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is based in Tillamook. It is one of the state's most popular train rides and has operated on the Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad since 2002 using a historic Climax geared steam locomotive.

Along with standard excursion trains the railroad also operates special and seasonal trains throughout the year, including dinner trains.

The Sumpter Valley Railroad, based in Sumpter, is located in northeast Oregon. It operates on trackage originally owned by the Sumpter Valley Railway.

The railroad was created to preserve this corridor and today hosts popular train rides while continually restoring the trackage. They currently have two operational steam locomotives on their property.

Located in Portland at Washington Park the railroad is a 2-foot, 6-inch narrow-gauge scale train. It transports visitors between the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, International Rose Test Garden, and the World Forestry Center.

The Willamette Shore Trolley is operated by the Oregon Electric Railway Museum, the largest trolley/interurban museum in the Pacific Northwest. It currently operates trolley service on a 6-mile section of railroad between Lake Oswego and Portland.

South Dakota

The state's only notable excursion line, the "1880 Train" features historic steam locomotives and one of the only places in the country that utilizes the "Mallet" compound design (2-6-6-2T #110).

The railroad's trackage is a section of the former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy's Keystone Branch running between Hill City and Keystone, South Dakota.

They also host a number of specials during the year, including the Holiday Express; a Christmas-decorated train allowing kids to see Santa and receive a small gift.

As one of the premier such attractions in the country, the Black Hills Central is a must-see! They not only operate another steam locomotive, 2-6-2T #103, but also display several other steamers on their property.

Texas

The Austin Steam Train, based in Austin, Texas, hosts excursions through the "Hill Country" using tracks once owned by the Southern Pacific.

The line is 163 miles long and used as both a commuter and freight rail line with the Steam Train having permission to operate excursions. Along with their standard trips the association also features murder mystery specials, seasonal rides, and charters.

This attraction is located at 1700 Colonial Parkway in Fort Worth and boasts a 5-mile trip from the Forest Park Depot to the Duck Pond in Trinity Park. The rides last about 30-45 minutes. The little railroad has been in operation since 1959.

The Grapevine Railroad, based Grapevine, Texas operates train rides between its headquarters and Fort Worth on trackage originally owned by the St. Louis Southwestern Railway (Cotton Belt).

Along with two operable steam locomotives the railroad also has a GP7 diesel on hand. It operates numerous specials throughout the year (such as hosting "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine) along with their standard excursion schedule.

The Historic Jefferson Railway, also known as the Jefferson & Cypress Bayou Railway, is a 3-foot, narrow-gauge located in Jefferson, Texas.

It has been in service since 1985 and uses 4-4-0 #7 for power, hosting trips on a 3-mile journey through the Big Cypress Bayou. The railroad also features several special rides and other trips throughout the year.

The only operating vintage trolley service in the state, the McKinney Avenue Transit Authority serves its namesake street in Dallas (in the Uptown district) as well as a section of St. Paul Street and Cole Avenue. Service is provided via restored trolley cars that are climate controlled.

The state's most popular train ride is the Texas State Railroad, based in Rusk and Palestine, Texas. Using trackage once owned by the Southern Pacific the railroad features two operating steam locomotives and a vintage diesel locomotive (Alco RS2). Along with their standard excursions the railroad hosts numerous specials throughout the year.

Wisconsin

The Lumberjack Steam Train is located in Laona, Wisconsin and operated by the Camp 5 Museum which preserves the area's logging history. Their trains are pulled by a 2-6-2 steam locomotive (built for the Fairchild & North-Eastern Railway by the Vulcan Iron Works in 1916), that boards from the restored Soo Line depot in Laona.

This tourist attraction is located in Eau Claire and offers visitors the chance to ride a one-quarter scale train ride.

The East Troy Electric Railroad Museum is Wisconsin's only heritage interurban railway, operating between East Troy and Mukwonago using restored trolley cars.

The Mid-Continent Railway Museum, based in North Freedom, preserves the region and state's rail history. In doing so it also operates an excursion, lasting 50-minutes via trackage originally owned by the Chicago & North Western.

Based in Osceola, Wisconsin, along the border with Minnesota, this tourist railroad hosts rides operated by the Minnesota Transportation Museum with a typical season running between May and October.

Their longest excursion is a 20-mile round trip lasting nearly two hours. They also offer a wide range of special holiday excursions and brunch/dinner trains.

This attraction is located in Wisconsin Dells and features a fascinating, 15-inch scale trains available to ride, pulled by live steam locomotives!

The history of the property dates back to the 1940s and currently offers trips on their 3-mile right-of-way. Throughout the year they also host special excursions.

This miniature train is part of the larger Little Amerricka amusement park located in Marshall. The 16-inch scale trains use live steam locomotives pulling guests around the grounds.

The Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad acts as both a freight and tourist railroad, hosting scenic train rides over former Chicago & North Western Railway trackage between Spooner and Springbrook.

The railroad has steadily grown and now hosts dinner trains between February and December each year. Along with dinner trains they also operates season specials, such as during Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

As with many zoos the Milwaukee County Zoo is home to a miniature train which operates around the grounds and shuttles guests to different areas of the park.

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

Premier Experiences

There are many great scenic railroads to experience but if you are truly interested in riding the best-of-best, there is a reason why names like the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge, Strasburg Railroad, Grand Canyon Railway, Verde Canyon Railway, and White Pass & Yukon are so popular.

They host long rides in very-well maintained equipment (usually climate-controlled), provide a range of special events throughout the year, operate through absolutely spectacular scenery, offer some type of dining/cuisine/beverages, and furnish trips lasting hours.

The Grand Canyon Railway stands out, in particular. The company operates the former Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe's 64-mile Grand Canyon Branch from the main line at Williams, Arizona to the canyon's South Rim.

There, travelers can stay at the Santa Fe's historic El Tovar Hotel (among other accommodations) or simply enjoy the incredible views.

During your trip the train provides many levels of service, from standard to coach to dome-car settings. If you have the means, this railroad is very much worth a visit!

Scenic Train Rides By State

History

What To Expect

State Guide

Delaware

Hawaii

Indiana

Missouri

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Mexico

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North Dakota

Oregon

South Dakota

Texas

Wisconsin

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

Premier Experiences

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