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Train Rides Along The Tillamook Coast

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Oregon Coastal Excursion – Rockaway Beach or Garibaldi

Our signature excursion along the scenic Tillamook Bay and the Oregon Coast offers a relaxed ride and a step back in time behind an authentic steam locomotive or vintage diesel locomotive! Departing from Garibaldi or Rockaway Beach, this excursion is 30 minutes each direction. A minimum 30 minute layover is included, but passengers may stay longer and take any available return trip!

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Moonlight Excursion

Join us for an unforgettable evening aboard our steam powered Moonlight Excursion! Sip on your choice of complementary local beer or wine as you take in the views along the beautiful Tillamook coastline! This round-trip ride from Garibaldi travels north at sunset and returns in the dark!

• New for 2024!

Ice Cream Train

Cool off on the Oregon Coast aboard the Ice Cream Train! Each passenger receives a complimentary Tillamook Ice Cream Sandwich to enjoy on their journey. 90 minute round trip ride departing from Garibaldi, Oregon.

EDUCATE, PRESERVE, RESTORE

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad (OCSR) is a unique heritage railroading museum in that it not only has static displays of engines and historic artifacts but also provides interpreted train rides along the coast. OCSR tells the story of the area, gives information about the wildlife, and stresses the importance of practicing environmental conservation so that others may continue to enjoy the beautiful North Coast of Oregon.

OCSR commits itself to the education, preservation, and restoration of the logging history of the Pacific Northwest in a time when rare logging equipment is frequently lost forever. This organization collects those pieces and provides the necessary repairs and expert knowledge to get the pieces running again and back in service for all to enjoy.

OREGON COASTAL EXCURSION – ROCKAWAY BEACH OR GARIBALDI

Moonlight excursion, ice cream train, purchase a season pass.

Our daily operation relies upon dedicated volunteers and generous support from the public, like you. How can you help “Keep OCSR Rolling?” Purchase one of our season passes! A season pass entitles the holder to unlimited rides on selected excursions, 10% off merchandise, and advanced notice of special event trains.

Want to give someone that special gift while supporting the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad at the same time? Purchase a gift card and give it to the railfan in your family!

Have any questions? Feel free to contact us at [email protected].

AUTHENTIC RAILROAD EXPERIENCE WITH BEAUTIFUL SCENERY

My family had a wonderful time. We're so happy Santa came to visit! What a kind, patient Santa! I would've loved to be abe to crack the window for some fresh air, but thats okay. Such a magical ride for my little one. Thank you!

Candy canes, Christmas cookies, hot chocolate, writing letters to santa with a fun train ride and a visit with Santa! Fun, fun, fun! Very friendly staff, this was a really nice experience. Will do again!

Fun time! Rockaway and Garibaldi are beautiful and not as "touristy" as several other coastal towns. Best to get there a bit early to ride in the outdoor cars where all the action is. On the way back we got stuck in the covered car and you can't hear any of the tour info back there.

This is a very scenic ride. The staff are awesome and are very knowledgeable. The history is very interesting and I highly recommend riding this train, I will do this again.

Consider a donation via your Paypal account to the benefit of OCSR. We are a tax-exempt 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and any donated amount goes directly into the continual maintenance and operation of the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad.

Steam Engine Train Rides In The USA: Scenic Trips and Rail Museums To Visit

I love to travel, and steam train rides are one of my favorite things to do when I visit a new area. Unfortunately, I find that while there are lots of places to ride an authentic steam train, it's often an afterthought when folks suggest things to do in an area. Let's change that! These steam engines have a special place in my heart - as they do with millions of other guys and even some women too!

These locomotives are giant hulking marvels of engineering that represented the pinnacle of technology in their day but are still amazing to experience. In our age, where we covet silent, clean, smooth, and safe modes of transportation, these great mechanical beasts bring us back to a day when none of that was required - just getting the job done and opening up new opportunities to expand and profit. Additionally, I find that while many of these rail museums offer novelty rides such as "Thomas The Tank Engine" or "Polar Express" tours, simply riding the rails allows you to go places and see things that are otherwise inaccessible by car or foot. 

What Do You Call Your "Guys Trips"?

• Guys Weekends
• Guys Getaways
• Top U.S. Steam Train Rides: The article identifies the best destinations for steam train enthusiasts, including the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado and the Strasburg Rail Road in Pennsylvania, known for their scenic routes and historical significance.
• Scenic and Historical Routes: Many of the featured rides offer journeys through spectacular landscapes, such as the mountainous regions of Colorado and lush countrysides in Pennsylvania, often along historically significant tracks.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The article highlights that many steam train rides provide educational experiences and fun activities for all ages, making them ideal for family outings.
• Special Events and Themed Rides: Several railways host special events, such as holiday-themed rides, murder mystery trains, and autumn leaf-viewing excursions, enhancing the appeal and providing unique experiences for riders.
• Preservation and Education: The article also discusses the efforts made by these railroads to preserve the heritage of steam railroading in America, including museum components and restoration projects that help educate the public about the history of rail travel.

Despite many of these antique steam trains nearing a century of use, we're lucky that so many of them still exist for us to enjoy today. Most of us even have a location to visit within an easy day trip or at worst a weekend getaway from where we live so they make an excellent excuse to get out of the house and do something new.

Like any rail museum or destination - please make sure to contact the location directly to confirm times, dates, prices, and status regarding what steam locomotives and rolling stock are available.

Camp 5 Museum and Lumberjack Steam Train

Take a journey back in time with the Camp 5 Museum to the late 1800's with this vintage steam engine (built in 1916). This 4-Spot engine is the only "Prairie Style" locomotive currently operating in the state of Wisconsin. In the late 1800's, this line served North Woods logging camps and that's where it takes you today on a journey of discovery to explore not just the train but also the logging camp itself. 

Steamtown National Historic Site

For a taste of America's railroading history, make sure to visit Steamtown, the former site of the DL&W Scranton Yards in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Visitors are welcome to take a ride on the Scranton Limited and enjoy a 30 minute trip around the rail yard, including a scenic view of the Lackawanna River. Alternatively, on select Sundays, you can board the Nay Aug Gorge Limited for a longer run, including a visit to the entrance of the Nay Aug Tunnel.

V&T Railway

Want to catch a nice, long ride in style? Check out the V&T Railway , located in Carson City, Nevada. Steam train rides are available from May to October, taking you between and around Carson City, Virginia City , and Gold Hill. Special feature rides are frequently available, such as the Dinner & Melodrama train where you can enjoy a meal and a show while you ride and the Toast of the Canyon Wine Tasting train.

Roaring Camp Railroads

Located in Felton, CA, these railways were once used to ferry lumber down from the mountains, but now you can ride the lines instead. With some of the oldest and most accurately-restored steam engines in the US, you'll get an authentic taste of the power behind these massive vehicles as you take in the majestic redwood forests and travel across the scenic beach boardwalks of Santa Cruz.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

Colorado has numerous railways for tourists to enjoy and this one offers a spectacular journey through the Rocky Mountains on the longest steam-operated railroad in the U.S. These include the steam engines located on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Antonito, the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad in Cripple Creek, the Georgetown Loop, and the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad in Alamosa. Each of these routes provide a stunning look at the natural beauty of Colorado and a glimpse into the state's industrial past, and Colorado is in no short supply of first-class hotels and restaurants to relax at afterward.  (Colorado & New Mexico) - 

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train

Once used to haul silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains, the Durango & Silverton rail line now allows tourists to enjoy the scenic views of central Colorado. Journey along the Animas River, see the beautiful countryside, and catch a glimpse of Colorado's bountiful wildlife on a train ride from Durango to Silverton. If you're a real steam train fan, you can even ride inside the engine cab for an up-close opportunity to see how these powerful vehicles work firsthand.

More Colorado Steam Train Rides

Colorado is a special place for a lot of different reasons but among those is the rich history of preserving the heritage of steam trains that helped us conquor terrain that was too challenging for cars and foot. Here are a few other places in Colorado where you can ride steam trains through the rocky mountains and along scenic river valleys.

• Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad (Cripple Creek) - A scenic journey through the historic gold mining regions of Colorado, providing insights into the Gold Rush era with a four-mile round trip.
• Georgetown Loop Railroad (Georgetown) - Connects Georgetown and Silver Plume over an engineering marvel of a looped track, with high trestles and tight curves through the mountainous terrain.
• Rio Grande Scenic Railroad (Alamosa) - Offers spectacular scenic views, concert trips, and historical narratives through the southern Rocky Mountains, known as the "Railroad Above the Clouds."
• Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad (Leadville) - Takes a journey north along the old Denver, South Park & Pacific and Colorado & Southern lines to the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert.
• Colorado Railroad Museum (Golden) - While not offering regular steam engine rides (they do have a diesel locomotive), this museum features special event days where steam train rides are available on their loop track around the museum grounds, providing a historical context and close-up experience with steam locomotives.
• Tiny Town Railroad (Morrison) - Although Tiny Town's locomotive is a miniature train, it IS steam-operated and coal fired. It offers a quaint ride perfect for families, winding through the miniature town and scenic surroundings.

These locations provide a mix of historical, scenic, and family-friendly steam train experiences across Colorado, each with its unique charm and appeal, so grab a seat and hang on ... it's going to be a fun ride but a bumpy one!

Illinois Railway Museum

Located in the city of Union and dedicated to showing the importance of trains during the growth of Chicago and of the nation, the Illinois Railway Museum is the largest of its kind in the entire United States. Steam train rides are available several days of the week from April through October, taking you around the museum's grounds and allowing you to observe its vast collection of railway artifacts and vintage equipment.

Strasburg Railroad

Located in Strasburg, Pennsylvania , this quaint rail line has been running steam engines along its 4.5 mile track since 1832, making it America's oldest continuously operating railroad. Offering scenic steam train rides through Pennsylvania's Amish Country it is a step back in time. Round-trip rides on the steam train through the scenic countryside are available nearly all year round, and several luxury cars are available for those looking to ride in the utmost comfort. Special events frequently happen, including wine and cheese Saturdays, vintage baseball days, staged train robberies, and even murder mysteries.

B&O Railroad Museum

The museum does not always offer offer steam train rides - but it's worth a visit if you love old trains anyhow! Please call the museum to confirm what trains are running. The birthplace of American railways is the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and this museum is even affiliated with the Smithsonian. The B&O Railroad Museum captures its historical significance in a whole load of fun and interesting ways. Enjoy the food and historical exhibits, see the many vintage steam engines, and while you're there, be sure to hop on the Mile One Express, a twenty minute round trip aboard a steam train around the very first commercial mile of tracks ever used in the United States.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Once a bustling town built around a massive lumber milling complex, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is now a popular tourist destination in West Virginia and the perfect vacation spot for train lovers. Vintage steam engines transport passengers on long train rides along three separate routes, including visits to beautiful, untamed wilderness, tall mountains, and the ruins of the nearby logging town of Spruce.

Disneyland Railroad and Other Theme Parks

Yes, most of you have probably ridden this at least once, but no roundup of places to ride a steam train would be complete without including the Disneyland Railroad . Unlike other train rides on this list, this one will take you back in time ... all the way back to pre-history with the dinosaurs, as well as the American west (Adventure Land), and other parts of Disneyland. 

Disney World also operates steam locomotives. The ones at the Florida park though originally were originally built in the 1880s by the Baldwin Locomotive Works and operated on a narrow-gauge railroad in Mexico. 

Other amusement parks around the United States also offer scenic steam train rides for guests, these include:

• Knott's Berry Farm (Buena Park, California) - Offers a steam train ride on the Ghost Town & Calico Railroad.
• Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee) - Known as the Dollywood Express, a coal-fired steam train that takes guests on a scenic journey through the Smoky Mountains.
• Silver Dollar City (Branson, Missouri) - Home to the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train, a steam train that tours the park, after an accident in 2022 the steam engine rides are now back in service..
• Six Flags St. Louis (Eureka, Missouri) - Features the Tommy G. Robertson Railroad, a steam train that provides a leisurely ride around the park. Six Flags America outside of DC actually has a new attraction area that opened up this summer called "Steam Town" but sadly there appears to be no actual steam engine rides, but plenty of other cool themed attractions for steampunk fans that love to take the world of steam-powered engines and combine it with science fiction!
• Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio) - This coal-powered trip back in time offers a ride on the Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad, a steam train that loops around the park with historical commentary.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

If you want to see some incredible sights, consider taking a three-hour trip to the highest peak in New England on one of the Mount Washington Cog Railway's steam train tours. You'll have the chance to marvel at the only Cog railway in the eastern United States as you ride the world's oldest mountain climbing train and spend a full hour at the summit of Mount Washington, where you can enjoy the magnificent views, gourmet food, and many attractions on location.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park , located in Jamestown, California, near Sacramento, offers a six-mile roundtrip ride through the Sierra foothills. The railroad here is also know as "The Movie Railroad" since its locomotives and cars have appeared in more than 200 films, TV shows, and commercials.This includes Back to the Future Part III and Petticoat Junction. Other attractions here include an authentic railroad roundhouse, functioning blacksmithing area and belt-driven machine shop as well as related historic structures and Hollywood props.

Nevada Northern Railway

The Nevada Northern Railway in Ely, Nevada is often referred to as one of the best preserved historic railways in North America. It has also served as a movie and music video site including Willy Nelson's "Once upon a Texas Train". The railway includes a 1910-era depot, tunnels, and cuts with operating steam and diesel locomotives, passenger equipment, wrecking cranes, boxcars, ore cars, tank cars, and even a rotary snowplow.

In addition to their standard 90-minute tour they also offer the Great Basin Star Train where you can head out way beyond most light pollution. This tour will include members of the National Park Service known as "Dark Rangers" with telescopes to help guests explore the night sky.

Other Awesome Steam Engine Train Rides:

Riding a coal-powered steam train offers a unique and nostalgic experience. Whether you wanting to ride the rails as part of a guys trip or a /father-and-son-trips, steam engines train rides offer a sense of nostalgia and visceral excitement that few other forms of transportation truly can. From the whistle to the clouds of steam and an occasional spark as you roll down the tracks, this is an experience that you just have to try more than once. Here’s a list of the top 20 places in the United States where you can enjoy this historic form of travel:

• Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango, Colorado) - Travels through breathtaking canyons in the remote wilderness of the San Juan National Forest.
• East Broad Top Railroad (Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania) - This historic narrow-gauge railroad offers a trip back in time through the rural Pennsylvania countryside.
• Nevada Northern Railway (Ely, Nevada) - Known as the best-preserved short-line in North America, offering several themed rides throughout the year.
• Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (Cumberland, Maryland) - Features a climb through the Allegheny Mountains with spectacular views and historical commentary.
• Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (Yacolt, Washington) - Provides a scenic journey through forests, across a trestle, and past a beautiful waterfall.
• Black Hills Central Railroad (Hill City, South Dakota) - This railroad is famous for its 1880 Train, a two-hour, round-trip ride through South Dakota's scenic Black Hills.
• Sumpter Valley Railroad (Baker City, Oregon) - A restored narrow-gauge train that offers a glimpse into the rich history of Oregon's gold mining region.
• Hesston Steam Museum (LaPorte, Indiana) - Not only a museum but also offers train rides on its extensive grounds featuring different gauge tracks.
• Northern Central Railway Of York (New Freedom, Pennsylvania) - Offers educational rides on a 1860s steam locomotive as well as a GP9 diesel engine that follow the same route that Abraham Lincoln took to deliver his Gettysburg Address.They offer a variety of historical programming where you can meet presidents and generals as well as experiencing a taste of the wild west while celebrating a rail road that literally helped build a nation and keep it together during the Civil War.
• Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad (Elbe, Washington) - Provides a ride through the forests and foothills south of Mount Rainier National Park.
• Essex Steam Train (Essex, Connecticut) - Offers rides through the picturesque Connecticut River Valley, including unique riverboat connections.
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (Bryson City, North Carolina) - Features a variety of train excursions through the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina.
• Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad (Boone, Iowa) - Provides a variety of train rides, including themed events and dinner trains, through the scenic Des Moines River Valley.
• Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (New Haven, Indiana) - Offers occasional excursions and events featuring historic steam locomotives.

These places offer a ride and a deep dive into America's rich railway history, making them must-visit destinations for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Did we miss any places that deserve to be on this list of steam train rides in the United States?

All Aboard!

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad has excursions for everyone to enjoy.

Reinventing The Railroad

RailCycle Mt. Rainier is an exciting new way to explore the foothills of Mt. Rainier. Pedal along a historic logging railroad, enjoying forest and mountain views on our custom-designed four-seat RailCycles.

Rich History

Our Mission is to cultivate an understanding of the history and culture of the Railroad and logging operations while promoting environmentally respectful tourism and economic opportunity.

Scenic Steam Train Rides and Special Events!

Whiskey, Wine & Beer Tasting, Brunch & Dinner Trains

Mt. Rainier Railroad Scenic is back.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of

Mt. rainier like never before.

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad is back! Our nonprofit is bringing back the tradition of unforgettable steam train excursions, through the heart of Washington State!

Take a step back in time and ride on a vintage train, pulled by a steam locomotive through the breathtakingly beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape. With stunning views of mountains, farmland, and surrounding forests, this is a journey that you’ll never forget.

Book your tickets now and be one of the first to experience the reopening of this iconic railroad. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make unforgettable memories with your family and friends.

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Fun for all ages!

Upcoming Excursions

🚂 Beer Tasting Trains $52 (21+ Only) 🕒 Departure Times: 6:00pm

🚂 The Polar Express Starting at $38

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About Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

June 14, 2022

American Life

The 7 Best Steam Train Trips in the U.S.

The grandeur of the American steam locomotive lives on. Here’s where you can catch a ride behind a steam-powered passenger train this summer.

Jordan Green

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Black smoke still billows from steam locomotives in southeastern Pennsylvania, just as it has since 1832. The Strasburg Rail Road, said to be “America’s oldest continuously operated railroad,” turned 190 years old June 9.

The Strasburg Rail Road is one of the nation’s top destinations for passengers wishing to catch a ride behind a steam train. It’s given thousands of eager riders the chance to see how American railroads operated during their glory days.

Best of all, it’s not the only place where you can trundle down the tracks on steam power. Several railroad organizations offer steam engine excursions – and they’re waiting for you to climb aboard this summer.

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Abilene & smoky valley.

When railroads started retiring steam locomotives in the mid-20 th century, some wound up in city parks. But decades later, the one in Abilene, Kansas, got back on track. The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad operates former Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe No. 3415, a 4-6-2 (those numbers representing the wheel arrangement) Pacific-type locomotive that pulls passenger excursions on select weekends throughout the year.

The locomotive was restored to service after sitting in a municipal park for 40 years. It’s worked for the railroad for several years and is about to undergo significant rebuilding, so 2022 will be the last chance to roll down the rails behind this engine – at least for a while. Repair work on the locomotive will coincide with continued track rehabilitation work, ensuring smooth rides for years to come.

No. 3415 operated over Memorial Day weekend and drew a large crowd, says Ross Boelling, the railroad’s president and general manager. “There’s only very few Pacifics left,” Boelling says. “It’s the only steam locomotive within a 500-mile radius of Abilene that’s operating. … She always seems to draw a lot of attention.”

The engine will operate during Fourth of July weekend, Labor Day weekend, and during Abilene’s annual heritage celebration in late September and early October. Round-trips on the line last roughly two hours. Tickets for adults ages 12 and over are $40; children ages 3 to 11 can ride for $20, and children ages 3 and under ride for free. For more information, visit asvrr.org .

Cumbres & Toltec

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is planning to fire up its summer season of steam train rides July 1, railroad officials say. The 64-mile railroad operates between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico, carrying passengers through tunnels, over streams, past wildlife habitats and across a lengthy, vintage trestle bridge. It also climbs to the top of Cumbres Pass. At more than 10,000 feet, it’s the highest point of elevation a steam locomotive has ever reached in North America. The railroad holds the claim to the largest fleet of narrow-gauge steam locomotives in the U.S.

The railroad has introduced new special trains for the summer season, including dinner and brunch trains powered by steam locomotive No. 168. Ticket prices for regular, full steam excursion train trips start at $135 for adults. The railroad offers shorter trips at lower costs, and tickets are selling out quickly. To purchase tickets, visit cumbrestoltec.com .

“If there was ever a year to book early, this is it,” says Scott Gibbs, the railroad’s president. “Our fans are excited to get back to rail adventures and early sales are strong. We’d hate for anyone to be disappointed, so plan ahead.”

Durango & Silverton

Not many registered historical sites move by rail. But the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, Colorado, does. Winding through the San Juan National Forest, this railroad has been voted as one of the world’s best train rides, according to the American Travel Writers Association.

The railroad can track its history back to the narrow-gauge Denver & Rio Grande Western Railway in the early 1880s. The line between Durango and Silverton was nearly abandoned in the 1940s, but it found a new life serving as a movie set. It’s been featured in several productions, including Around the World in 80 Days , and it’s been a registered National Historic Landmark since the 1960s, according to the railroad’s website.

The railroad provides year-round passenger service behind its steam engines, which date back to the early 1920s. Tickets for the Durango to Silverton round-trip start at $101 for adults and $65 for children ages 4 to 11. Tickets can be purchased by visiting durangotrain.com .

Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway offers steam locomotive-powered rides around one of America’s most impressive land formations. The 65-mile trip, billed as a “legendary journey to an extraordinary place,” travels from the depot in Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the canyon. A round-trip lasts more than four hours.

The railroad offers several different classes of service, including Pullman class, coach class, first-class, and luxury parlor class. In luxury parlor class, passengers can “ride like a baron,” according to the railroad; this class offers a private bar, snacks, and an open platform on the rear of the car where riders can stand and “see the landscape from a different and unique perspective.” Along the way are Ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir trees, as well as mountain lions, elk, and bald eagles. The train ride includes live musical entertainment, according to the railroad’s website, and passengers can read the railway’s newspaper, the Territorial Times.

Upcoming steam engine excursion dates are July 2, Aug. 6, Sept. 3, Sept. 17 for the railway’s anniversary, and Oct. 1. Tickets for children ages 2 to 15 start at $32, and tickets for adults ages 16 and older start at $67. Children under 2 ride for free. For more information, visit thetrain.com .

Mount Washington Cog

As the world’s first mountain-climbing railway, this Mount Washington, New Hampshire, attraction takes visitors high in the sky behind coal-fired steam locomotives. Riding more than 6,000 feet to the top of the mountain, visitors can see much of the American northeast from the comfort of their seats in the train car – on a clear day, of course.

Robert Arey, the railroad’s director of marketing, says, “Mount Washington is the highest peak in the northeast, so you do get up high in elevation. It’s also home to the world’s worst weather. Some days, you might get to experience being in a cloud … or you might get views of five different states, including Canada, and also the Atlantic Ocean if those conditions are right. It gets you a whole new way to experience the summit of a mountain.”

To climb the mountain, the railroad’s two operating steam locomotives use a rack system, which operates like a bicycle chain, Arey says. The locomotive powers a cog gear that hooks into the rack, pulling the engine and passenger car up the mountain as the wheels glide along the rails.

Round-trips last three hours: two hours for travel up and down the mountain, and one hour for visitors to explore the summit. The railway normally offers a morning trip and evening trip, and this year, it’s added a third trip on Saturdays because of high demand, Arey says. Steam train rides sell out quickly, and tickets cost roughly $100 per person. To purchase tickets and look at train schedules, visit thecog.com.

Nevada Northern Railway

If you’ve ever watched Willie Nelson’s 1988 TV film Once Upon a Texas Train , then you’ve seen the Nevada Northern Railway in action. The Nevada Northern calls itself “the best preserved, most authentic, American short-line railroad in existence.” In Ely, Nevada, about 250 miles north of Las Vegas, this railroad offers 90-minute rides behind steam engines built in the early 1900s. Along the line, passengers can see vintage mining structures, a ghost town,tunnels, and mountain scenery. Some trains may even get “robbed” by the museum’s actors. The railroad even has a mascot: Dirt the Cat, who reached social media celebrity status for his dirty, furry appearance while hanging around the repair shop.

Passenger trains have been a mainstay in the railroad’s roughly 110-year history, so it’s no surprise that the museum’s steam locomotives have been featured in countless films and other productions. Hands-on events allow train enthusiasts to try their hand at operating the locomotives and other equipment.

Tickets cost $35 for adults, $29 for seniors 65 and older, and $10 for children ages 4 through 12. Children under 4 ride for free, and all children ride free Monday through Thursday each week. To purchase tickets and learn more, visit nnry.com.

Strasburg Rail Road

Though no formal birthday celebrations have taken place, the railroad’s 190th summer promises to steamy and full of fun, says Hope Graby, the railroad’s marketing representative. Ticket prices for regular accommodations onboard trains start at $10 for children ages 2 to 11 and $18 for adults. More ticketing information is available online at strasburgrailroad.com .

The railroad has continued to add new events, including tours of its mechanical shop and opportunities for visitors to run steam locomotives, Graby says. As for the railroad’s next 190 years, it’s full steam ahead.

“The future for Strasburg is really leveraging opportunities to put steam railroading, the importance of it, the impact it has had on our country, in front of new audiences,” Graby says. “Unlike some tourist railroads, we’re a real, working railroad. You don’t have people who are playing parts or actors. You have real conductors, real firemen, real engineers, real mechanics that are doing this day in, day out with extreme love and passion for what they do.”

Featured image: A steam locomotive pulls a passenger train at the Strasburg Rail Road. (Photo courtesy Chris Pollock, via Strasburg Rail Road)

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I’m not familiar with the locations of some trains. However, the article about Strasburg train never gave a state where this train is located. Is it possible to find out its location?

What a great article, from the top picture of the Strasburg Rail Road train, to the bottom feature on it. I love trains for their historical importance, beauty, unique sound and of course the wonderful sight of the steam itself’ especially when its ‘cloud’ white. They’re also a way to experience a little of the 19th century in the 21st.

I was glad to read about the one in Abilene being restored for real service after being in that municipal park for 40 years. I’m sure if it could talk it would say “Thank you for letting me do what I was built to do, once again!” That’s unusual. Once a train like that would be relegated to a park curiosity attraction, the chances of this happening would be slim to none without a lot of serious push for it. The track rehab is equally important as stated.

All of these trains offer unique fun and adventure no other mode of travel offers. I’d love to go on all of them! You’ve done a wonderful job on this feature Jordan, and I appreciate the links too. Thank you!

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The Greatest Steam Train Trips in the World

Step back in time on these nostalgic steam train trips, a charming way to experience a bygone era of travel

• Post author By Isabella Sullivan
• Post date 6th September 2020

Trains have come a long way since first the steam-powered railway journey took place first 1804. But while we now have bullet-trains and high-speed railways, there’s something very nostalgic about a steam train, hearing the gentle chug as it rolls along, transporting you back to the golden age of railway travel. For utter romance on the railways, look no further than these amazing steam train trips from around the world.

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

The Jacobite Steam Train is a famous steam train in the Scottish Highlands, ploughing the famous Road to the Isles rail route. Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, the Jacobite takes passengers on an 5hour 50minutes round-trip from Fort William to Mallaig, starting at Ben Nevis and crossing rugged landscapes and lochs. Train look familiar? You may recognise if from its role as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter.

Old Patagonian Express, Argentina

The Old Patagonian Express , or La Trochita, is a steam train that operates on a narrow-gauge railway in Patagonia, Argentina. Now a heritage railway route, the nostalgic train was made famous in the 1978 Paul Theroux book  The Old Patagonian Express , running between Esquel and the settlement of Nahuel Pan and between El Maitén and Desvío Thomae. With vistas stretching across endless plains, wide valleys and mountains as far as the eye can see, you’ll see why Theroux called it ‘almost the end of the world’.

Achensee Steam Cog Railway, Austria

Visitors to Tyrol in  Austria  will love a trip back in time on the Achensee Railway , Europe’s oldest steam cog railway that has carriages dating back to the 1900s. The metre-gauge cog railway runs between Jenbach and Seespitz on Lake Achensee, steaming past Europe’s largest nature reserve, the Karwendel Mountains and spectacular Alpine scenery. Passengers get to travel on cute locomotives called Georg, Hermann, Hannah and Theodor and enjoy the experience of seeing coal shovelled into the furnace to power the train’s engine.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, UK

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a nostalgic train trip back in time, taking travellers through the wilds of the North Yorkshire Moors . We don’t know what we love more, the historic Pullman carriages, the puffing steam locomotive or the plethora of tiny village stations and tea rooms the train rolls past. Running from Pickering to Whitby, traveller can disembark for a seaside fish and chips lunch before travelling back through the National Paek.

Puffing Billy Railway, Australia

Travellers Down Under should pay a visit to the Puffing Billy Railway , a 2ft 6 in  narrow-gauge heritage railway  runs through the southern foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, near Melbourne. The 25 kilometre journey takes passengers from Belgrave to Gembrook along one of the country’s five historic Victorian narrow-gauge lines and passengers can hop on-and-off while enjoying fantastic views of the Victorian countryside from the iconic open-sided carriages.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India

India is full of incredible heritage trains, like the brilliantly blue Toy Train that runs the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The historic rail route is 150 years old, covering 88km of track using zigzags and loops to ascend the foothills of the Himalayas. Most carriages are diesel pulled, all except the Red Panda, a service from Darjeeling to Kurseong (3 hours, 30 minutes). Passing through cool luscious forests and tea plantations, you’ll see why this journey was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999.

Schynige Platte Railway, Switzerland

The Schynige Platte Railway is a scenic mountain railway that travels from Wilderswil up to the vantage point of Schynige Platte, located in the Bernese Highlands area of Switzerland . In just 7.3km the train climbs to a height of 1,420 metres, offering passengers spectacular views of triple peaks Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau and the stunning wildflower gardens of the Schynige Platte. The train itself is old school, tiny in size and evokes nostalgia, still operating with one of its original steam locomotives. 

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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

From coastal routes to journeys through the mountains, these train rides spotlight all of America's most stunning scenery.

Photograph: Courtesty Amtrak

From redwood groves to sprawling desert landscapes to miles of picturesque countryside, America has no shortage of stunning scenery across its 50 states. One of the best ways to take in all the beauty is by hopping aboard a train. 

While a road trip through America is always a great choice to see the country's sights, we'd argue train travel is even better. Not only is riding  on a train a timeless experience with notes of romance and nostalgia, but there's no airport stress or need to be at attention behind the wheel. Instead,  you can sit back, relax and simply stare out the window as you take it all in. 

Below, you'll find the best and most scenic train rides across the country. On the West Coast, take in ocean views aboard the Coast Starlight (from Los Angeles to Seattle ) or the Surfliner, which hugs the California coast for miles. On the East Coast, the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you through the Mount Washington area in New Hampshire. Looking for something even more adventurous? Head to Alaska  to catch the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage.

Whether you're looking for a multi-day adventure or a route that only lasts a few hours, these train rides won't disappoint.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best train rides in the USA

1.  rockies to the red rocks.

Denver, CO to Moab, UT

Trip length: Two days

The first U.S. offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the ' Rockies to the Red Rocks ' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA . The 2024 season runs from April 14 through October 9.

2.  Coast Starlight

Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA

Trip length: 36 hours

Traveling by train instead puts a spin on the classic left-coast road trip. The advantages? There are zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland, and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car,' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

3.  Pacific Surfliner

San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Trip length: 8-9 hours

If you're looking for a train ride with ocean views, you can't beat Amrak's Pacific Surfliner , which travels along a 351-mile route, many of the trip is directly along the California coast. The route starts out in San Diego before meandering up through Anaheim, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and other stops before ending in San Luis Obispo in the central part of the state. 

4.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon, AZ

Trip length: 2 hours 15 minutes

Sure, you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway , you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

5.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, IL to Portland, OR

Trip length: 45–46 hours

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

6.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, AK to Fairbanks, AK

Trip length: 12 hours

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad ’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

7.  Skunk Train

Willits, CA

Trip length: 2 hours

Hopping aboard  Skunk Train  is like traveling back in time—this historic train has been traversing Mendocino County in California since 1885. Today, you can choose from a variety of routes and experiences. The most popular journey is Wolf Tree Turn. This 16-mile route will take you through old-growth redwood groves within Noyo River Canyon, over trestle bridges, and under tunnels, ending with a stop in Crowley, where you can take in the majesty of one of the oldest trees in the area, the Wolf Tree. Enjoy snacks and beverages (including alcoholic ones) before heading back toward Willits.

8.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson City, NC

Trip length: 3.5 hours

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has various routes, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers, take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

9.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton Woods, NH

Trip length: 3 hours

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288-foot peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

10.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley, CA

Trip length: 3 to 6 hours on average

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train comprises a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

11.  California Zephyr

Emeryville, CA to Reno, NV

Trip length: 6 hours 45 minutes

At more than 2,400 miles long, the  California Zephyr —stretching from San Francisco to Chicago—is Amtrak's longest route. While we don't recommend you do the route in its entirety (unless that floats your boat), we highly recommend the route stretching from the Bay Area (hop on in San Francisco or Emeryville) to the Lake Tahoe area (get off in Reno or Truckee). This scenic journey is an ideal way to get to Tahoe, beat the traffic, and take in dreamy views.  

12.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Trip length: 1.5 hours

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride aboard the Hawaiian Railway Society shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

13.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, CO to Silverton, CO

Trip length: 3.5 hours

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

14.  The Ethan Allen Express

New York City, NY to Burlington, VT

Trip length: 7 hours 35 minutes

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. On the Ethan Allen Express , you’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains, before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

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8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely sightseeing experience. Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

There’s no getting around the sheer size and scale of the USA – it’s an absolute, supersized whopper – and the best way to see it all is via train.

The US has close to 3.8 million sq miles (10 million sq km) of sublime mountain ranges, parched desert, entire states engulfed in deep snow, you-gotta-go-see-it-to-believe-it cities, endless prairie land, six whole time zones and lakes so large you could lose whole countries down there. So while traveling around by plane might make sense from a convenience point of view – it’s not quite six hours to dart directly from New York to LA – there really is no better way to experience the sheer grandeur of the country than by taking one of these train vacations.

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely, nostalgic sightseeing experience, often passing through pristine landscapes inaccessible by other means. The US is rich with amazing train journeys, but the routes listed below are the cream of the crop. From California to New England ,  here are eight epic US train trips our editors have selected, taken from Lonely Planet's  Amazing Train Journeys .

1. The Sunset Limited

Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1995 miles (3211 km); 2 days

Amtrak's Sunset Limited is the ultimate American railroad ride and one of its most famous train journeys: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a journey across the USA, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer.

Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana ’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston , across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, pardner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

2. The Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle – Portland – Sacramento – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1377 miles (2216 km); 35 hours

Trace America’s “left coast” in all its varied splendor. The 35-hour (OK, it’s Amtrak, so maybe more) trip between Seattle and Los Angeles curves alongside crashing Pacific waves, cuts through America’s lushest agricultural land and passes below snowcapped mountains and towering redwoods. Of all the Amtrak routes, the Coast Starlight offers the most scenic variety in the fewest hours.

It’s also the only Amtrak service with a dedicated parlor car, open only to passengers who book sleepers. The parlor conjures old-time rail romance, with wood paneling and soft lighting, plus a special menu and wine-and-cheese tastings. Highlights of this train ride include dramatic sunrise perspectives on 14,179ft (4322m)  Mt Shasta , and a gorgeous midday traverse of Oregon's Cascade Range.

3. Metro-North Hudson Line

Route: New York City – Poughkeepsie Distance and duration: 69 miles (111 km); 1½ hours

Depart from New York City ’s iconic beaux arts Grand Central Terminal , stopping to admire the ornate astronomical ceiling painting in the vaulted main concourse and to slurp up oysters and a martini at the famous Oyster Bar.

Then roll through Manhattan and the Bronx and into the glorious green Hudson River Valley. Hugging the eastern banks of the river, New York’s Metro-North's Hudson line travels deep into American history. The names of the stops along the way speak to the area’s origins: Native American (Ossining, Poughkeepsie); Dutch (Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers, Cortlandt, Peekskill); English (Hastings-on-Hudson, Scarborough). It’s a land so famously beautiful an entire art movement – the Hudson River School – was once dedicated to capturing its glory. For the cost of a burger and a beer, this view can be yours for almost two hours.

4. The California Zephyr

Route: Chicago – Omaha – Denver – Salt Lake City – San Francisco Distance and duration: 2438 miles (3924km), 51 hours 20 minutes

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak’s California Zephyr train. This classic three-day journey travels nearly 2500 miles (4000km) across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from Chicago to San Francisco. The scenery is magnificent throughout – especially when seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the lounge car – but if you can only do one section, opt for the riveting 185-mile (298km) stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the train travels through an often roadless wilderness of deep, narrow gorges near the Colorado River’s headwaters.

Near sunset, the train emerges into the majestic red rock desert of eastern Utah , then crosses overnight into the forbidding vastness of Nevada's sagebrush country, with salt flats and stark, arid mountains as far as the eye can see. Sunrise on day three reveals an entirely different desert: the blinding-white alkali flats and ghostly grey mountains near Winnemucca, Nevada. Just beyond the gambling-happy little city of Reno, the Zephyr climbs into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, then enters California’s imposing granite high country beyond the photogenic frontier town of Truckee.

5. Amtrak Downeaster

Route: Boston – Portland – Brunswick Distance and duration: 145 miles (233 km); 3 hours 25 minutes

As car-free city breaks go, this train escape is hard to beat, chugging from the downtown main streets of urban Boston to Maine ’s rural greens in under four hours. That’s from the seventh most densely populated city in the US to the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, all in less time than it takes to cook an old-style Yankee plum pudding.

Even better, every stop on the Amtrak Downeaster features historic New England cities and towns, parks and seascapes, cottage arts and crafts, world-class shopping and stellar foods fashioned from farm-and-sea-fresh ingredients.

6. The New Mexico Rail Runner

Route: Albuquerque – Santa Fe Distance and duration: 97 miles (156 km); 90 minutes

One of America’s great unsung commuter railways, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a regional train that runs down the Rio Grande Valley , connecting the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, with its cultural and political capital, Santa Fe.

On the way it crosses the wide, high desert, giving views of arid mountains in all directions, and even passes through several of the state’s Native American tribal lands. A no-nonsense, clean and quick journey, its highlights are the sweeping views from the upper seats of the double-decker carriages. Taken as a day trip or a scenic but practical form of intra-state transport, the Rail Runner is a wonderful introduction to New Mexico ’s epic landscapes.

7. The Empire Builder

Route: Chicago – St Paul or Minneapolis – Spokane – Portland or Seattle Distance and duration: 2764 miles (4448 km); 46 hours

The Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle glides through Wisconsin 's woodlands, Minnesota's lake country and the North Dakota prairies en route to a western horizon swarming with snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks.

From Browning , Montana, an unforgettable 60-mile run along the southern edge of Glacier National Park leads to the park entrance at West Glacier, where nature lovers will want to break their journey before continuing to Seattle.

8. The Vermonter

Route: Washington, DC – New York City– Springfield – Essex Junction ( Burlington ) – St Albans Distance and duration: 611 miles (983 km); 13 hours 45 minutes

The Amtrak Vermonter runs once daily from Washington, DC to St Albans, VT. This is the most scenic route east of the Mississippi, especially in its northern reaches, where it snakes for four hours through the bucolic green hills and photogenic villages of rural Vermont.

Starting from the nation's capital, Washington, DC, the train runs north through one of the USA's greatest metropolises, New York City, before bowling out through Connecticut , Massachusetts and New Hampshire en route to the bucolic Vermont countryside and St Albans.

This article was first published Dec 4, 2020 and updated Jan 29, 2024.

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Day trips taking in steam train rides are increasingly popular in the UK and the South East of England boasts an enviable mix of experiences suitable for enthusiasts and families.

Discover the history behind steam locomotives told by passionate and knowledgeable volunteers while experiencing some of the most hidden and beautiful parts of our great outdoors.

Look out for seasonal events and dining experiences taking place this weekend on most steam railways that are sure to make for a fun day out. At Christmas time the popular Santa Specials fill up fast so book early to avoid disappointment.

Our guide takes you through the best steam train days out in South East England or simply select the map view button below to find a steam railway near you.

South East England's best steam train trips  

Bluebell railway , east sussex.

The volunteer-run Bluebell Line was the UK's first preserved standard gauge passenger railway, re-opening part of the Lewes to East Grinstead line of the old London Brighton & South Coast Railway in 1960.

Since then it has developed into one of the largest tourist attractions in Sussex, yet it still remains true to its objectives of the preservation for posterity of a country branch line, its steam locomotives, coaches and goods stock, signalling systems, stations and operating practices.

Didcot Railway Centre , Oxfordshire

The Great Western Railway was incorporated in 1835 to build the railway from Bristol to London, designed and engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Members of the Great Western Society have created a living museum at Didcot, based around the original engine shed and depot to which has been added a typical branchline and country station, signalling demonstrations and a recreation of Brunel's original broad gauge trackwork, complete with a replica of the Fire Fly locomotive built in 1840. 

Kent & East Sussex Steam Railway , Kent

The picturesque line weaves between Tenterden and Bodiam for more than 10 miles. England's finest rural light railway enables visitors to experience steam train trips and service from a bygone age aboard beautifully restored coaches and locomotives dating from Victorian times. The earliest plans for a railway for Tenterden were made in the 1850s. 

Steam Train days out near me

View the map of steam railways by selecting the 'map view' button and see what's near you.

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Bluebell Railway

Steam Railway

The Bluebell Railway is a preserved country branch line, lovingly restored and maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers. The railway runs nostalgic steam trains through nine miles of Sussex countryside.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Inspiring, Surprising and Award-Winning … Equally appealing to adults and families, your visit to The Isle of Wight Steam Railway will charm, engage and captivate, leaving you with some lasting memories of a special day out.

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Images of this picturesque line weaveing between Tenterden and Bodiam. England's finest rural light railway enables visitors to experience travel & service from a bygone age aboard beautifully restored Victorian coaches and locomotives.

Living museum recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway. Steam locomotives and trains, Brunel's broad gauge railway, engine shed and small relics museum.

Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway

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Bekonscot Model Village & Railway

Model / Miniature Village

Bekonscot delights visitors of all ages and be a giant in this miniature wonderland. Established in 1929 Bekonscot Model Village depicts rural England in the 1930s.

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4 Epic Train Rides In Virginia That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.

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Train rides in Virginia are a wonderful way to enjoy the day or weekend. We live in a fast-paced world. It seems like these days, traveling folks are increasingly eager to arrive at their destinations. But zipping to the next stopping point often robs us of the entire travel experience. Fortunately, trains accommodate both the traveler and the sight-seer, taking us to a new destination while we sit back and enjoy the views.

While train rides may have been replaced by faster modes of transportation, nothing can quite compare to the experience of taking scenic train rides in Virginia. It’s a timeless experience. The following Virginia train rides will offer unique views of the countryside, mountains, and valleys, and all corners of our beautiful state. Save yourself the hassle of driving in traffic and relax in an old-fashioned or modern train car. You’ll be glad to enjoy the ride.

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It’s sad to think about train rides as something of the past. Hopefully, with so many museums dedicated to the history of trains and locomotives, train travel isn’t something that will disappear altogether. Have you taken any of these train rides in Virginia? We’d love to hear about your experience!

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Train rides in virginia.

What are some good day trips you can take by train in Virginia?

For a good day trip by train in Virginia, take the Cardinal to Charlottesville.

Virginia has some breathtaking landscapes, and oftentimes it is hard to fully appreciate them if you are driving a car. Fortunately, there is another great way to take in all of the stunning Virginia scenery – travel by train ! So next time you’re looking for a day trip, why not travel by train? Ashland is a picturesque town with a lovely Main Street that is accessible by Amtrak train. Or, hop on Amtrak’s Cardinal and spend the day in the college city of Charlottesville. Another great day destination is the northern Virginia town of Fredricksburg. Also accessible via Amtrak, this scenic town by the Rappahannock has a lot of history and great shopping.

Are there any model train displays in Virginia?

Visit the Richmond Railroad Museum at the Southern Railway Station on Hull Street for a model train display in Virginia.

Train lovers rejoice! Not only are there ample opportunities to ride trains in Virginia, but there are also some fantastic train displays. One of the largest indoor train displays in Virginia is located in the Richmond Railroad Museum . The museum is located inside the historic Southern Railway Station on Hull Street. Inside, visitors find great information about the history of the railroad, as well as displays and equipment. The large model train display is impressively large and incredibly detailed. There are even replicas of famous Richmond landmarks in the miniature city. So check out this cool display next time you’re in Richmond.

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13 Southern train rides you need to take if you really, really love trains

There's just something about trains, y'all. Maybe it's the nostalgia or the calming atmosphere, but we can't help but love a good train ride.

After all, whether you're looking for a relaxing ride with a scenic view, fun excursions the whole family can enjoy or a journey back in time to learn more about the railroad industry's heyday, going on a train is always a good idea.

With that in mind, we decided to explore some of the trains offering passengers rides throughout the South, and there are plenty of 'em. You can go for a 45-minute loop, take a day trip or even spend the night on one. Plus, many offer special events, like trips to the pumpkin patch, a murder mystery-style experience and even visits to the North Pole, if you're hoping to add a little something extra to the journey.

Here's a look at 13 places to visit if you really, really love trains.

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Alabama

Birmingham News - Frank Couch

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street in Calera, Ala.

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum offers train enthusiasts of all ages the chance to ride a restored train, view its collection of industry artifacts and learn more about Alabama's railroad history. Throughout the year, the museum offers various holiday-themed events, including the Easter Eggspress, Wild West Day and Pumpkin Junction, that are fun for the whole family as well as adult-only outings like its Bourbon and Beignets ride during Mardi Gras.

For more information, click here.

Tennessee Valley Railroad in Tennessee

Shutterstock

Tennessee Valley Railroad 4119 Cromwell Road in Chattanooga, Tenn.

You can relive the romance of the rails aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad, which offers an array of unique train excursions, from a five-hour trip to the top of the famous Hiwassee Loop to a quick trip on a vintage short-line that comes with a turntable demonstration. You could also enjoy a delicious meal aboard the dinner train and then stay to browse the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Honestly, deciding which route to take will be the hardest part.

Go here for more information.

The Georgia Coastal Railway in Georgia

The Georgia Coastal Railway 440 South Lee Street in Kingsland, Ga.

Do you want to do more than just ride a train? Well, The Georgia Coastal Railway offers up plenty of train excursions that no one would ever describe as ordinary. For example, you can buy a ticket to its Murder Mystery Express, Pizza Express and its Stars on Track rides, which feature live entertainment. Of course, they also offer a peaceful train ride through the area's neighborhoods, woodlands and marshes too if that's more your thing.

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum in Kentucky

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum 175 Beasley Road in Versailles, Ky.

The Bluegrass Railroad and Museum offers up an interactive experience of historic railroading in Kentucky through its museum of historic railroad artifacts and antique train tours. Throughout the year, the railway offers up a variety of events like its Rails of Honor ride, which serves as a living history salute to those who served in World War II. For an extra special experience, you can even ride in the cab with the engineer to get a firsthand look at how locomotives work.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad in Texas

Grapevine Vintage Railroad 636 S. Main Street in Grapevine, Texas

Take a trip back in time at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, where you can ride on authentic 1920s Victorian coaches. The railroad offers a variety of regular excursions -- including its Cotton Belt route that allows you to help solve a railroad mystery and explore the local stockyards -- depending on how long you want to ride as well as special events, like its Trick 'r Treat train, Jazz Wine train and Day Out with Thomas train throughout the year.

Florida Railroad Museum in Florida

Florida Railroad Museum 12210 83rd Street East in Parrish, Fla.

The Florida Railroad Museum, which has been in operation for more than 40 years, aims to give visitors a taste of railroading as it existed in the 1940s and 1950s by offering up a variety of excursions. Whether you're hoping for something relaxing, like its 13-mile scenic route with a stop at its museum, or something a little more exciting, like its family-friendly "Old West train robbery" experience, they've got you covered.

The South Carolina Railroad Museum in South Carolina

The South Carolina Railroad Museum

The South Carolina Railroad Museum 110 Industrial Park Road in Winnsboro, S.C.

Established in 1973, the South Carolina Railroad Museum has spent decades preserving South Carolina's railroading history for future generations. Today, visitors can enjoy an hour-long train ride, walk-through stationary cars and browse various photos and artifacts on display in the museum's many exhibits. Special events, like holiday-themed excursions and rides featuring gourmet dinners, are also scheduled throughout the year.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Everett Street in Bryson City, N.C.

For a relaxing train experience, make sure you book a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Its Tuckasegee River roundtrip is a four-hour excursion that includes scenic views as well as a layover long enough for dining and shopping in the historic town of Dillsboro. Plus, there are several seating options, so whether you're traveling with family, hoping for some fresh air or looking for a first-class experience, you'll find it aboard.

Southern Forest Heritage Museum in Louisiana

Southern Forest Heritage Museum 77 Longleaf Road in Long Leaf, La.

For a scenic trip on a historic train, plan a visit to the Southern Forest Heritage Museum in Long Leaf, La. In addition to exploring a variety of exhibits about the state's forest industry displayed in a complex of preserved historic buildings, you can also take a ride on a 1937 M-4 “doodlebug" train, which was used in passenger service beginning in 1937. Several additional train engines that were used for logging, dating back to 1913, are also on display at the museum grounds.

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway in Arkansas

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway 299 North Main Street in Eureka Springs, Ark.

If you're looking to step back in time, the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway can help you do just that while you ride the rails. That's because, in addition to excursion trips on a 1940-era diesel locomotive, you can also enjoy a luxury dining experience aboard a 1920s Eurekan dining car. During your visit, you can also view steam locomotive exhibits and watch as its authentic turntable turns the engine.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in West Virginia

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

12363 Cass Road in Cass, W. Va.

For a trip that features rich history and unparalleled views, look no further than Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. The park offers an 11-mile-long heritage railroad to the breathtaking overlook at Bald Knob, which is the third-highest point in West Virginia. In addition, you'll be able to take in an authentic company town that is home to shops, a restaurant and an artisans co-op as well as the Cass Historical Theater and Historical Museum.

Buckingham Branch Railroad in Virginia

Buckingham Branch Railroad 1063 Main Street in Dillwyn, Va.

The Buckingham Branch Railroad, a class I railroad that operates on more than 280 miles of track, collaborates with the Old Dominion Chapter of the National Railway Preservation Society to offer specialty seasonal excursion trains throughout the year. During the scenic trip, passengers can enjoy views of rolling hills and deep forests in the heart of Central Virginia while riding aboard a vintage diesel-powered train.

Marion County Recreational Railroad in Mississippi

Marion County Recreational Railroad 150 Industrial Park Road in Columbia, Miss.

For a quick ride, jump aboard The Marion County Recreational Railroad. The train, which consists of an engine, passenger car and caboose, follows a 1.5-mile historic track through Columbia on a 45-minute loop, giving you time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the experience before going about your day. While you're there, you can also learn more about the area's railroad industry.

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As Southern as sweet tea? Maybe not!

Sweet tea isn't just a mere beverage in the South.

Sweet tea isn’t just a mere beverage in the South – it’s a symbol of hospitality, tradition and regional pride. In fact, in Steel Magnolias, Dolly Parton’s Truvy calls it the “house wine of the South.” But how did this simple concoction of tea, sugar and ice become so deeply ingrained in Southern culture? The answer is steeped in history, climate and cultural evolution.

Now don’t have a spell when I say this but do have a chair nearby just in case: Contrary to popular belief, iced tea did not originate in the South.

I know. I know. When I saw that fact, it took me a minute to recover too. But notice I said iced tea, not sweet tea.

Hear me out.

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Tea became popular in the American colonies in the 1700s, influenced by British customs, but sugar is a luxury item and is mostly consumed by the wealthy. The story of sweet iced tea in the South doesn’t really begin until the 19th century.

That’s because the widespread use of ice in beverages was not common until the 19th century. Turns out that we owe a lot to Frederic Tudor, Boston’s "Ice King," who revolutionized the ice trade in the early 1800s. His ingenious business model involved harvesting ice from New England lakes and shipping it to warmer regions, including the Southern states. This innovation made ice more accessible and affordable, paving the way for the creation and popularity of iced beverages, including our beloved sweet iced tea.

This seems to be a good time to acknowledge the fact that no one down here calls it “sweet iced tea.” The “iced” part is just assumed, and “sweet tea” is all you need to say. But this story calls for a distinction between hot or room temperature sweet tea and ice cold sweet tea.

The oldest known recipe for sweet tea appeared in a community cookbook called "Housekeeping in Old Virginia" in 1878. Interestingly, this early version was made with green tea. However, during World War II, access to green tea was cut off leading to the widespread adoption of black tea, which remains the standard today.

READ MORE: The 10 commandments of sweet tea

And – this is when you might need that chair again – it really wasn’t until the late 20th century that sweet tea became synonymous with Southern culture. That all came about as Southern cuisine began to gain more national attention and sweet tea was highlighted as a quintessential part of the Southern dining experience.

Initially, sweet tea was a luxury item enjoyed by the wealthy, but as tea costs came down and the ability to have ice and refrigeration became more common, people from all walks of life began to partake. Research also tells me that the drink's popularity surged during the Prohibition era (1920-1933) when it served as a non-alcoholic alternative to banned beverages. That’s when “they say” sweet tea became a staple at social gatherings, further embedding it into Southern culture.

My common sense, however, tells me one word that probably makes that premise invalid: moonshine. But that’s another story for another day.

Two tea companies, Luzianne and Lipton, played crucial roles in the proliferation and standardization of sweet tea in the South.

Founded in New Orleans by William B. Reily in 1902, Luzianne initially started as a coffee business but soon expanded into tea when it recognized the South's preference for iced tea. With its special blend specifically designed for brewing smooth and flavorful iced tea, Luzianne soon became a household name.

READ MORE: I am a Southerner who hates sweet tea, and I am not ashamed

Luzianne also pioneered the production of tea bags specifically tailored for iced tea, simplifying the brewing process and ensuring consistent flavor. They also emphasized the tea's suitability for making iced tea in their advertising, often including detailed instructions for brewing the perfect batch. This approach helped standardize sweet tea recipes, ensuring a uniform taste experience across the South.

Lipton Tea, founded by Sir Thomas Lipton in the late 19th century, quickly became a leader in the tea industry because of its reputation for quality and affordability. Its mid-20th century marketing campaigns highlighted the refreshing nature of iced tea, which naturally resonated with sun-addled Southern sippers. And it was Lipton that introduced pre-sweetened tea mixes and ready-to-drink iced teas, further simplifying the preparation of sweet tea and expanding its availability.

In the modern-day field of sweet tea, Alabama-based Milo’s Tea has emerged as the South's favorite, and the company has become synonymous with high-quality, ready-to-drink sweet tea.

Milo’s Tea traces its roots back to Milo Carlton, who opened Milo’s Hamburgers in Birmingham in 1946. The restaurant’s freshly brewed sweet tea quickly gained a loyal following, prompting the Carlton family to start bottling and selling the tea commercially in 1989. Today, Milo’s tea is distributed across the Southern United States and beyond, rivaling the two long-established brands, Luzianne and Lipton.

But why do we Southerners like our tea so tooth-achingly sweet?

One reason links us to good old Southern hospitality. Given our close proximity to places where sugar cane is easily grown and plentiful, such as Louisiana and the Caribbean, many of our family and social gatherings have long centered around sweets – cakes, pies, pralines and the like. That means many of our happy memories are associated with sugar, and not just the kind your Memaw plants on your cheek. A taste of good, strong sweet tea simply transports us back to those good times, and who doesn’t like that?

Another has to do with culinary tradition. The cultures that strongly influence our cooking – European, African and Caribbean – have their own traditions of adding sweet flavors to foods and beverages. Think about molasses on biscuits, candied yams, peach jam, bourbon, rum or even sweet pickles. Southern cuisine has naturally evolved to embrace sweet flavors.

And the simple fact of the matter is that humans like sweet things and are drawn to them. Sugar is often associated with energy-rich foods, once sorely needed in our primarily agrarian society. And sugar is pleasing to the senses – physically, mentally and emotionally.

While sweet tea's origins are not exclusively Southern, it has evolved into a cultural icon of the South that reflects our history, climate and cultural practices. From its early days as a luxury item to its current status as a beloved staple, in the South, sweet tea has become a way of life. And oh how our cup runneth over.

Would you choose the beach or lake? We debate the two.

We Southerners have two loves of our lives: Spending summers at the beach and the lake.

In our newest video series, Hash Out, we debate some of the biggest issues facing Southerners. And in this episode, Ryan and Donna are going head to head to debate which is better: The lake or the beach?

Which one won? Well, you need to watch it all here!

7 Patriotic Towns to Visit in the South

Lawn chairs, glow sticks and patriotic music were in abundance as people gathered to watch fireworks at the American Village in Montevallo, Alabama.

Red, white and blue.

Flags and fireworks.

Patriotism is often represented by those colors and celebratory expressions in cities and towns across the South, especially as the calendar turns to July.

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate Independence Day in the South, the following locations can’t be beat. They exude patriotism, and are perfect for a weekend visit or Summer vacation–even after the Fourth of July has passed.

“Patriotism” (defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary quite simply as “love for or devotion to one’s country") is a hard ideal to quantify, but for this list characteristics such as the following were considered: proliferation of veterans and/or military service people in the local population, exceptional Fourth of July celebrations, historical significance or a notable “Americana” aesthetic.

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Panama city, florida.

The metro area that includes Panama City, Lynn Haven and Panama City Beach is one filled with military veterans; according to one survey, 19.5% of its citizens have served in the military. While there are plenty of July Fourth celebrations at beach locales, especially notable are the ones in the quaint Lynn Haven area. Activities start at 8 a.m., with a pancake breakfast and continue throughout the day and evening with a parade, family fun area, concert and fireworks show.

Tupelo, Mississippi

When you’re the birthplace of Elvis Presley, one of the most quintessentially American of music legends, it’s easy to see why you’d make this list. But Tupelo is also known as the five-time recipient of the “All America City” award from the National Civic League (the only city in the South with so many designations). When you visit, be sure to check out the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum , take a picture with the Elvis’ 1956 Homecoming Statue in downtown Tupelo, and grab a barbecue sandwich or dough burger at Johnnie’s Drive-In (where you can sit in the Elvis booth).

READ MORE: Non-Elvis places to go in Tupelo

Montevallo, Alabama

South of Birmingham, a campus of 20 historically-inspired buildings (such as Washington Hall, modeled after George and Martha Washington’s Mount Vernon) offers a unique patriotic experience. Open year round, American Village is especially magical on the Fourth of July; on that day, visitors can engage with historical characters such as the Washingtons, Alexander and Eliza Hamilton, and Ben Franklin, and watch a reenactment of the battle at Concord Bridge.

Mount Airy, North Carolina

To get a slice of nostalgic American life, visit the town that served as inspiration for “The Andy Griffith Show.” Griffith grew up in Mount Airy and today visitors can enjoy the Andy Griffith Museum , Mayberry Squad Car Tours, Floyd’s Barber Shop and Mayberry Replica Courthouse. Don’t forget to take a picture with the TV Land statue and grab a bite at Snappy Lunch , which has been in operation since 1923.

READ MORE: This town offers Mayberry tours

Beaufort, South Carolina

The Carolinas boast plenty of patriotic towns (the states were original colonies, after all, and many Revolutionary battles took place on their land), but Beaufort is one of the best. The home of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, the city has a long tradition of military service. It also boasts beautiful beaches, great restaurants, historic museums and movie sites from Forrest Gump, The Prince of Tides and others.

READ MORE: An insider's guide to Beaufort

South Padre Island, Texas

Already known for its pyrotechnics throughout the year, South Padre Island really puts on a show for the Fourth of July. The “Fireworks Capital of Texas” offers a spectacular show over Laguna Madre Bay (visible from restaurants, bars, and parks throughout the area), but stick around afterwards and enjoy everything that the island has to offer. Check out the wildlife on a stroll down the Laguna Madre Nature Trail , enjoy the beach at Isla Blanca Park, visit the Port Isabel Lighthouse and enjoy lunch at Dirty Al’s or Grapevine Cafe .

Williamsburg, Virginia

We’ve saved the best for last! Williamsburg provides you with plenty of opportunities to celebrate early America, and on July Fourth its celebrations include a reading of The Declaration of Independence by costumed actors and a 13-gun salute to honor the United States’ original colonies. Patriotic sites in the area include Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown, Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolution Museum.

While those seven towns are perfect for an all-American visit, there are plenty of other patriotic locales across the South. Just look for the history, the nostalgic feeling, the fireworks–and the red, white and blue.

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