The best scenic train rides in every state
See the states in a new way
Alabama: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Located just south of , the provides plenty of options for the whole family, including the one-hour Calera & Shelby Saturday Train Ride that chugs through the beautiful forests of Shelby County and kid-friendly events like the Pumpkin Patch Express and the Santa Special.
PHOTO: Jeff Greenberg
Alaska: Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train
Make the most of a visit to Alaska by riding on , a 12-hour journey from to . On a clear day, you'll have full view of the train's namesake landmark, (formerly Mount McKinley), which is the tallest peak in North America.
PHOTO: Kerrick James / ARRC
Arizona: Grand Canyon Railway
The offers a 65-mile, 2-hour and 15-minute train ride along the edge of the , at an elevation of 5,000 feet. Don't forget to look into the company's popular , offered during the holiday season.
PHOTO: Facebook/Grand Canyon Railroad
Arkansas: Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway
The is open April through October and travels along the restored Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad. In November, the railway offers a distinctive off-season experience with its Saturday Excursion Trains. Have a lovely meal in the 1920s Eurekan Dining Car and view the fall leaves.
PHOTO: Danita Delimont
California: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner
Instead of traveling down California's by car, consider taking in views of the ocean via Amtrak's , which travels from , a journey that's approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes of pure scenic bliss
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
It doesn’t get much more rough and rowdy than this. Imagine that you’re a 19th-century cowboy and take a ride on the . Choose the Cascade Canyon Excursion and ride a coal-fired locomotive as it chugs along 45 miles of rails originally constructed in 1882. The views of the can’t be beat.
PHOTO: Franz Marc Frei
Connecticut: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Travel by land and by water during an unforgettable excursion the whole family is sure to love. offers a two and a half-hour jaunt that includes a 12-mile ride on a steam locomotive through the Connecticut River Valley. Then, board the Becky Thatcher riverboat and glide in style along the .
PHOTO: Buyenlarge
Delaware: Wilmington and Western Railroad
You might feel as if you’ve traveled in a time machine when you hop onto a train at the . Choose the historic Mt. Cuba Meteor to ride through Delaware’s Red Clay Valley and have a picnic lunch on the Hockessin Flyer, which travels the entire length of the 17-mile line.
PHOTO: David Osberg
Florida: Florida Railroad Museum
Soak up palm trees and lush greenery as you enjoy a 13-mile round trip on a diesel train through the . Don’t miss the museum’s fun events, like the Wild West Train Robbery or the North Pole Express.
PHOTO: John Parra
Georgia: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Take in Georgia's beautiful , , and Toccoa River during this 4-hour open-air ride with . Don't miss their "Firecracker Special," which includes a festive firework show
PHOTO: Courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Hawaii: Kauai Plantation Railway
Now this is a unique way to see Hawaii! Book a ride with the and you’ll coast along through jungles and farmland in a reproduction train from the period of King Kalakaua. The conductor will stop during the trip to allow travelers to hike in a rainforest and pick their own tropical fruits.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/duluoz cats
Idaho: Thunder Mountain Line
As Idaho’s , you’ll be amazed at the scenery as you travel alongside the Payette River and . For an exceptionally one-of-a-kind experience, book the “Raft and Rails” package in which participants take an hour and a half-long train ride to the rapids of the Payette River. Get ready for a heart-pounding rafting adventure!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Memo Cordova
Illinois: Illinois Railway Museum
Your kids will love seeing all of the cool trains on display at the . This huge place holds the largest collection of historic railway equipment in North America. After taking in all that history, hit the rails for a 45-minute ride on a train of yore.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Indiana: Whitewater Valley Railroad
The in Connersville, Indiana takes visitors to , a restored canal town with a working grist mill, horse-drawn canal boat, shops, restaurants and more.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/J. Stephen Conn
Iowa: Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad
In the midst of the quiet Iowa cornfields, you’ll find an authentic railroad offering a myriad of events and excursions. The offers rides in 1920s coach cars through a picturesque valley, and they have dinner and picnic trains, too.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/photolibrarian
Kansas: Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad
Speed along through the Kansas countryside on a steam locomotive from the . In addition to their regular passenger trains, the railroad also has dinner train rides complete with classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths and tasty fare.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Lane Pearman
Kentucky: Kentucky Railway Museum
New Haven, Kentucky is home to the , the oldest rail museum in the state. See the rolling green fields and farmland from a locomotive or book a private excursion on the caboose. Now that’s a cool idea for a birthday party!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Anthony
Louisiana: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited Tour
Start in the grand city of New Orleans and head out to equally grand landscapes on an the tour between Louisiana and California. You’ll scope out bayous, deserts and mountains during this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Miguel Discart
Maine: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum
This peaceful 35-minute train ride with the allows you to see the splendor of Portland up close, riding along the Eastern Promenade of Casco Bay.
PHOTO: Portland Press Herald
Maryland: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
For a wide variety of different train excursions, look no further than Cumberland’s . They have family-focused trips that include a Fall Foliage Experience and Christmas Trains and they also offer an adults-only New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/jpmueller99
Massachusetts: Cape Cod Central Railroad
There’s a good reason why this railroad has been featured on the Food Network show "Dining on the Train." The specializes in exquisite adventures through sand dunes, cranberry bogs and sandy shores, all while you dine or listen to a narrator share history on the area.
PHOTO: KenWiedemann
Michigan: Greenfield Village
, Michigan’s, is a top destination for Henry Ford fans (you can take a ride in a real Model T!) and train enthusiasts alike. The historic attraction provides rides on the Weiser Railroad where you’ll be pulled by one of the oldest steam engines in existence.
PHOTO: Wolfgang Kaehler
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Railroad
This is one of the best ways to see Lake Superior. Although a walk along the lake would be pleasant, a train ride with Duluth’s is even better. During the summer, board the Duluth Zephyr to see waterfront views of Lake Superior and the Lester River.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Pete Markham
Mississippi: Pullman Rail Journeys’ Tracks of the Deep South Tour
See the very best of the South during this amazing trip from . During the which includes jaunts to and , you’ll also get the chance to go on an incredible Mississippi jazz sightseeing cruise.
PHOTO: Rory Patterson / EyeEm
Missouri: Branson Scenic Railway
You’ll marvel at the grandeur of the Ozarks when you take a ride with the . After making its way through Branson, the route dips down into Arkansas and you can pick either a Regular Excursion or the Dinner Train.
PHOTO: Dennis Macdonald
Montana: Alder Gulch Railway
This short-but-sweet train ride with the is only 15 minutes long, but it’s definitely worth it. Between Virginia City and Nevada City, you’ll travel on what’s called the “short line” and behold towering pines and Montana terrain.
PHOTO: Mark Miller Photos
Nebraska: Omaha Zoo Railroad
The railroad at Omaha’s is a real-life tale of the Little Engine That Could. You might be picturing one of those small trains for kids that travels around a zoo, but this one is in its own category: it’s a steam locomotive that rides along a heritage railroad and carries over 200,000 visitors per year. It’s an entertaining way to see the zoo’s animal residents.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Nevada Northern Railway Museum
Hitch a ride on a century-old train at the and try out a new way to stargaze. The museum offers an excursion called the Great Basin Star Train that travels to a remote area of the Steptoe Valley, which is famous for its pristine star-viewing. There, local rangers set up telescopes and share their astronomical knowledge.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Travel Nevada
New Hampshire: The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Open late April through November, the in , offers a thrilling adventure as you ascend the 6,288-foot summit of . Once at the top of the three-mile track, you'll be surrounded by mountain views as you travel through New Hampshire and Maine as well as an eastern view of the Atlantic Ocean.
PHOTO: Courtesy of The Mount Washington Cog Railway
New Jersey: Black River & Western Railroad
Make family memories with a ride on New Jersey’s . Jump on a steam locomotive and participate in themed rides, like the North Pole Express and Pumpkin Junction excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Vilseskogen
New Mexico: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
It doesn’t get much more scenic than this. The based in takes passengers on an unforgettable 64-mile ride through the and makes its way up to . You’ll be astounded by the views of canyons, deserts and meadows as you whiz by.
PHOTO: Blaine Harrington III
New York: Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Hiking the is a breathtaking experience. But if you’d prefer to see the peaks and pinnacles from the comfort of a train, you’re in luck. The has two stations to choose from and they each provide different excursions. Little ones will delight in the Family Halloween Train and the Beer & Wine Train is geared toward adults.
PHOTO: John Greim
North Carolina: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The in North Carolina offers two scenic train rides that the whole family will surely love. Ride alongside the during the 4.5-hour Nantahala Gorge Excursion, or take the four-hour Tuckasegee River Excursion to ride past a spot where the 1993 film "The Fugitive" was filmed.
PHOTO: Facebook/Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
North Dakota: Magic City Express
This is a train ride that the kiddos will really enjoy. On a scaled-down version of a historic locomotive, take a mile-long ride on the around Minot’s Roosevelt Park and then walk over to the next door to see lions, tigers and bears — oh my!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkSam DeLong
Ohio: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
The offers several family-friendly train options. Whether you decide to take a ride on the company's or its Santa Train during the holidays, these train rides along promise some of the most scenic views of Ohio.
PHOTO: Facebook/Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Oklahoma: Oklahoma Railway Museum
At the , your family will make a 45-minute trek in a passenger coach pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive and explore the sights of . Come back for the Halloween Train and Christmas Train excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Josh Friedman
Oregon: Mount Hood Railroad
Mount Hood Railroad offers three seasonal train excursions, perfect if you're looking for an adventurous new way to foster family bonding. Travel through woods, orchards and vineyards aboard the June through October , see the rich colors of , Oregon's, fall foliage during the train ride or enjoy an Old West-themed adventure on the ride, which is offered July through September.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Pennsylvania: Strasburg Railroad
Travel through the scenic in 's coal-burning steam train, built more than 175 years ago. This Pennsylvania-based railroad has great options for kids including their and the Christmas train.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Strasburg Railroad
Rhode Island: Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad
The has train rides for every member of the family. As you steam around Rhode Island’s Aquidneck Island, you can savor gourmet eats on the Grand Bellevue Dinner Train, see a retelling of “A Christmas Carol” on the Dickens Holiday Dinner Theatre Train or relish fall on the Autumn Harvest Bistro Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkC Hanchey
South Carolina: South Carolina Railroad Museum
At the , you can take a ride with the Rockton, Rion & Western Railroad and see the panoramas of the idyllic South Carolina countryside. Choose from the dining car with picture windows, a 1952 passenger car, a 1940 caboose or an open-air car.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/civilengtiger
South Dakota: 1880 Train
Nestled in the , you can make like Wild Bill and take an authentically-Western train ride. Board an and learn about the history of the region through a two-hour, narrated excursion. These rides are offered through the Black Hills Central Railroad, the oldest continuously-operating tour railroad in the United States.
PHOTO: Photo by Mike Kline (notkalvin)
Tennessee: Tennessee Valley Railroad
It’s as if the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" has come to life! Glenn Miller would have undoubtedly enjoyed a train ride through ’s , where you’ll see the Tennessee scenery speeding by during your ride. The excursions each have throwback names, like the Missionary Ridge Local, Summerville Steam Special, Copperhill Special and Hiwassee Loop.
PHOTO: Stephen Saks
Texas: Texas State Railroad
Get ready to be transported back in time once you step aboard the 's 1920s train car. You'll travel through Texas' Piney Woods during your 50-mile, four-hour journey. For the kids, the sets up a pumpkin patch during the fall and offers a , which begins in November.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Texas State Railroad
Utah: Heber Valley Railroad
Hop onboard the 's 1907 vintage steam locomotive to see amazing views of and . Make sure your kiddos are also on the lookout for bald eagles, deer and elk along the 16-mile ride.
PHOTO: Facebook/Herber Valley Railroad
Vermont: Green Mountain Railroad
Vermont is certainly a gorgeous state, and we think that the best way to see its beauty is from a train. Based in Burlington, you can look at waterfront locales and fall foliage from a dinner train or the popular “Cocktails on the Rails” excursion.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/nigelmenzies
Virginia: The Gypsy Express
Although this one isn’t as grandiose as some train rides, we love it all the same. mini train in Staunton, Virginia, is simply charming and perfectly-suited for little ones. For the past 60 years this tiny train has been enchanting visitors with its trek around Gypsy Hill Park. It just might be the most adorable train ride you’ll ever take.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Aaron Webb
Washington: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight
Dubbed , not only offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean you'll ever see, it's also one of the most affordable adventures out there — ! This special trip ventures from to over the course of 35 hours, but you can enjoy an abbreviated version by getting off at one of its 30 west coast stops.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
West Virginia: Cass Scenic Railway
Catch a ride on one of the steam-driven locomotives through West Virginia's . Be sure to pack your camera for beautiful shots of the
PHOTO: Courtesy of West Virginia State Parks
Wisconsin: Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Wisconsin’s train mecca, otherwise known as the , lies in and takes visitors on rides through the exquisite Baraboo Hills. They have excursions for nearly every holiday, including the Pumpkin Special, Stars and Stripes Special and the Snow Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/clare_and_ben
Wyoming: Terry Bison Ranch
This is a train-ride experience like no other. At Cheyenne, Wyoming’s, , you’ll hoot and holler for the many on-site activities, like horseback riding, home cooked dinners at the steakhouse and rides on their custom-built, scaled-down trains. Take a Bison Train Tour to see their ostriches, camels and of course, bison, or choose a Sunday Lunch Train for a good, old-fashioned meal.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Alabama: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Located just south of , the provides plenty of options for the whole family, including the one-hour Calera & Shelby Saturday Train Ride that chugs through the beautiful forests of Shelby County and kid-friendly events like the Pumpkin Patch Express and the Santa Special.
PHOTO: Jeff Greenberg
Alaska: Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train
Make the most of a visit to Alaska by riding on , a 12-hour journey from to . On a clear day, you'll have full view of the train's namesake landmark, (formerly Mount McKinley), which is the tallest peak in North America.
PHOTO: Kerrick James / ARRC
Arizona: Grand Canyon Railway
The offers a 65-mile, 2-hour and 15-minute train ride along the edge of the , at an elevation of 5,000 feet. Don't forget to look into the company's popular , offered during the holiday season.
PHOTO: Facebook/Grand Canyon Railroad
Arkansas: Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway
The is open April through October and travels along the restored Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad. In November, the railway offers a distinctive off-season experience with its Saturday Excursion Trains. Have a lovely meal in the 1920s Eurekan Dining Car and view the fall leaves.
PHOTO: Danita Delimont
California: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner
Instead of traveling down California's by car, consider taking in views of the ocean via Amtrak's , which travels from , a journey that's approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes of pure scenic bliss
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
It doesn’t get much more rough and rowdy than this. Imagine that you’re a 19th-century cowboy and take a ride on the . Choose the Cascade Canyon Excursion and ride a coal-fired locomotive as it chugs along 45 miles of rails originally constructed in 1882. The views of the can’t be beat.
PHOTO: Franz Marc Frei
Connecticut: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Travel by land and by water during an unforgettable excursion the whole family is sure to love. offers a two and a half-hour jaunt that includes a 12-mile ride on a steam locomotive through the Connecticut River Valley. Then, board the Becky Thatcher riverboat and glide in style along the .
PHOTO: Buyenlarge
Delaware: Wilmington and Western Railroad
You might feel as if you’ve traveled in a time machine when you hop onto a train at the . Choose the historic Mt. Cuba Meteor to ride through Delaware’s Red Clay Valley and have a picnic lunch on the Hockessin Flyer, which travels the entire length of the 17-mile line.
PHOTO: David Osberg
Florida: Florida Railroad Museum
Soak up palm trees and lush greenery as you enjoy a 13-mile round trip on a diesel train through the . Don’t miss the museum’s fun events, like the Wild West Train Robbery or the North Pole Express.
PHOTO: John Parra
Georgia: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Take in Georgia's beautiful , , and Toccoa River during this 4-hour open-air ride with . Don't miss their "Firecracker Special," which includes a festive firework show
PHOTO: Courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Hawaii: Kauai Plantation Railway
Now this is a unique way to see Hawaii! Book a ride with the and you’ll coast along through jungles and farmland in a reproduction train from the period of King Kalakaua. The conductor will stop during the trip to allow travelers to hike in a rainforest and pick their own tropical fruits.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/duluoz cats
Idaho: Thunder Mountain Line
As Idaho’s , you’ll be amazed at the scenery as you travel alongside the Payette River and . For an exceptionally one-of-a-kind experience, book the “Raft and Rails” package in which participants take an hour and a half-long train ride to the rapids of the Payette River. Get ready for a heart-pounding rafting adventure!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Memo Cordova
Illinois: Illinois Railway Museum
Your kids will love seeing all of the cool trains on display at the . This huge place holds the largest collection of historic railway equipment in North America. After taking in all that history, hit the rails for a 45-minute ride on a train of yore.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Indiana: Whitewater Valley Railroad
The in Connersville, Indiana takes visitors to , a restored canal town with a working grist mill, horse-drawn canal boat, shops, restaurants and more.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/J. Stephen Conn
Iowa: Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad
In the midst of the quiet Iowa cornfields, you’ll find an authentic railroad offering a myriad of events and excursions. The offers rides in 1920s coach cars through a picturesque valley, and they have dinner and picnic trains, too.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/photolibrarian
Kansas: Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad
Speed along through the Kansas countryside on a steam locomotive from the . In addition to their regular passenger trains, the railroad also has dinner train rides complete with classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths and tasty fare.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Lane Pearman
Kentucky: Kentucky Railway Museum
New Haven, Kentucky is home to the , the oldest rail museum in the state. See the rolling green fields and farmland from a locomotive or book a private excursion on the caboose. Now that’s a cool idea for a birthday party!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Anthony
Louisiana: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited Tour
Start in the grand city of New Orleans and head out to equally grand landscapes on an the tour between Louisiana and California. You’ll scope out bayous, deserts and mountains during this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Miguel Discart
Maine: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum
This peaceful 35-minute train ride with the allows you to see the splendor of Portland up close, riding along the Eastern Promenade of Casco Bay.
PHOTO: Portland Press Herald
Maryland: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
For a wide variety of different train excursions, look no further than Cumberland’s . They have family-focused trips that include a Fall Foliage Experience and Christmas Trains and they also offer an adults-only New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/jpmueller99
Massachusetts: Cape Cod Central Railroad
There’s a good reason why this railroad has been featured on the Food Network show "Dining on the Train." The specializes in exquisite adventures through sand dunes, cranberry bogs and sandy shores, all while you dine or listen to a narrator share history on the area.
PHOTO: KenWiedemann
Michigan: Greenfield Village
, Michigan’s, is a top destination for Henry Ford fans (you can take a ride in a real Model T!) and train enthusiasts alike. The historic attraction provides rides on the Weiser Railroad where you’ll be pulled by one of the oldest steam engines in existence.
PHOTO: Wolfgang Kaehler
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Railroad
This is one of the best ways to see Lake Superior. Although a walk along the lake would be pleasant, a train ride with Duluth’s is even better. During the summer, board the Duluth Zephyr to see waterfront views of Lake Superior and the Lester River.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Pete Markham
Mississippi: Pullman Rail Journeys’ Tracks of the Deep South Tour
See the very best of the South during this amazing trip from . During the which includes jaunts to and , you’ll also get the chance to go on an incredible Mississippi jazz sightseeing cruise.
PHOTO: Rory Patterson / EyeEm
Missouri: Branson Scenic Railway
You’ll marvel at the grandeur of the Ozarks when you take a ride with the . After making its way through Branson, the route dips down into Arkansas and you can pick either a Regular Excursion or the Dinner Train.
PHOTO: Dennis Macdonald
Montana: Alder Gulch Railway
This short-but-sweet train ride with the is only 15 minutes long, but it’s definitely worth it. Between Virginia City and Nevada City, you’ll travel on what’s called the “short line” and behold towering pines and Montana terrain.
PHOTO: Mark Miller Photos
Nebraska: Omaha Zoo Railroad
The railroad at Omaha’s is a real-life tale of the Little Engine That Could. You might be picturing one of those small trains for kids that travels around a zoo, but this one is in its own category: it’s a steam locomotive that rides along a heritage railroad and carries over 200,000 visitors per year. It’s an entertaining way to see the zoo’s animal residents.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Nevada Northern Railway Museum
Hitch a ride on a century-old train at the and try out a new way to stargaze. The museum offers an excursion called the Great Basin Star Train that travels to a remote area of the Steptoe Valley, which is famous for its pristine star-viewing. There, local rangers set up telescopes and share their astronomical knowledge.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Travel Nevada
New Hampshire: The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Open late April through November, the in , offers a thrilling adventure as you ascend the 6,288-foot summit of . Once at the top of the three-mile track, you'll be surrounded by mountain views as you travel through New Hampshire and Maine as well as an eastern view of the Atlantic Ocean.
PHOTO: Courtesy of The Mount Washington Cog Railway
New Jersey: Black River & Western Railroad
Make family memories with a ride on New Jersey’s . Jump on a steam locomotive and participate in themed rides, like the North Pole Express and Pumpkin Junction excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Vilseskogen
New Mexico: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
It doesn’t get much more scenic than this. The based in takes passengers on an unforgettable 64-mile ride through the and makes its way up to . You’ll be astounded by the views of canyons, deserts and meadows as you whiz by.
PHOTO: Blaine Harrington III
New York: Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Hiking the is a breathtaking experience. But if you’d prefer to see the peaks and pinnacles from the comfort of a train, you’re in luck. The has two stations to choose from and they each provide different excursions. Little ones will delight in the Family Halloween Train and the Beer & Wine Train is geared toward adults.
PHOTO: John Greim
North Carolina: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The in North Carolina offers two scenic train rides that the whole family will surely love. Ride alongside the during the 4.5-hour Nantahala Gorge Excursion, or take the four-hour Tuckasegee River Excursion to ride past a spot where the 1993 film "The Fugitive" was filmed.
PHOTO: Facebook/Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
North Dakota: Magic City Express
This is a train ride that the kiddos will really enjoy. On a scaled-down version of a historic locomotive, take a mile-long ride on the around Minot’s Roosevelt Park and then walk over to the next door to see lions, tigers and bears — oh my!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkSam DeLong
Ohio: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
The offers several family-friendly train options. Whether you decide to take a ride on the company's or its Santa Train during the holidays, these train rides along promise some of the most scenic views of Ohio.
PHOTO: Facebook/Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Oklahoma: Oklahoma Railway Museum
At the , your family will make a 45-minute trek in a passenger coach pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive and explore the sights of . Come back for the Halloween Train and Christmas Train excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Josh Friedman
Oregon: Mount Hood Railroad
Mount Hood Railroad offers three seasonal train excursions, perfect if you're looking for an adventurous new way to foster family bonding. Travel through woods, orchards and vineyards aboard the June through October , see the rich colors of , Oregon's, fall foliage during the train ride or enjoy an Old West-themed adventure on the ride, which is offered July through September.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Pennsylvania: Strasburg Railroad
Travel through the scenic in 's coal-burning steam train, built more than 175 years ago. This Pennsylvania-based railroad has great options for kids including their and the Christmas train.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Strasburg Railroad
Rhode Island: Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad
The has train rides for every member of the family. As you steam around Rhode Island’s Aquidneck Island, you can savor gourmet eats on the Grand Bellevue Dinner Train, see a retelling of “A Christmas Carol” on the Dickens Holiday Dinner Theatre Train or relish fall on the Autumn Harvest Bistro Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkC Hanchey
South Carolina: South Carolina Railroad Museum
At the , you can take a ride with the Rockton, Rion & Western Railroad and see the panoramas of the idyllic South Carolina countryside. Choose from the dining car with picture windows, a 1952 passenger car, a 1940 caboose or an open-air car.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/civilengtiger
South Dakota: 1880 Train
Nestled in the , you can make like Wild Bill and take an authentically-Western train ride. Board an and learn about the history of the region through a two-hour, narrated excursion. These rides are offered through the Black Hills Central Railroad, the oldest continuously-operating tour railroad in the United States.
PHOTO: Photo by Mike Kline (notkalvin)
Tennessee: Tennessee Valley Railroad
It’s as if the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" has come to life! Glenn Miller would have undoubtedly enjoyed a train ride through ’s , where you’ll see the Tennessee scenery speeding by during your ride. The excursions each have throwback names, like the Missionary Ridge Local, Summerville Steam Special, Copperhill Special and Hiwassee Loop.
PHOTO: Stephen Saks
Texas: Texas State Railroad
Get ready to be transported back in time once you step aboard the 's 1920s train car. You'll travel through Texas' Piney Woods during your 50-mile, four-hour journey. For the kids, the sets up a pumpkin patch during the fall and offers a , which begins in November.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Texas State Railroad
Utah: Heber Valley Railroad
Hop onboard the 's 1907 vintage steam locomotive to see amazing views of and . Make sure your kiddos are also on the lookout for bald eagles, deer and elk along the 16-mile ride.
PHOTO: Facebook/Herber Valley Railroad
Vermont: Green Mountain Railroad
Vermont is certainly a gorgeous state, and we think that the best way to see its beauty is from a train. Based in Burlington, you can look at waterfront locales and fall foliage from a dinner train or the popular “Cocktails on the Rails” excursion.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/nigelmenzies
Virginia: The Gypsy Express
Although this one isn’t as grandiose as some train rides, we love it all the same. mini train in Staunton, Virginia, is simply charming and perfectly-suited for little ones. For the past 60 years this tiny train has been enchanting visitors with its trek around Gypsy Hill Park. It just might be the most adorable train ride you’ll ever take.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Aaron Webb
Washington: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight
Dubbed , not only offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean you'll ever see, it's also one of the most affordable adventures out there — ! This special trip ventures from to over the course of 35 hours, but you can enjoy an abbreviated version by getting off at one of its 30 west coast stops.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
West Virginia: Cass Scenic Railway
Catch a ride on one of the steam-driven locomotives through West Virginia's . Be sure to pack your camera for beautiful shots of the
PHOTO: Courtesy of West Virginia State Parks
Wisconsin: Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Wisconsin’s train mecca, otherwise known as the , lies in and takes visitors on rides through the exquisite Baraboo Hills. They have excursions for nearly every holiday, including the Pumpkin Special, Stars and Stripes Special and the Snow Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/clare_and_ben
Wyoming: Terry Bison Ranch
This is a train-ride experience like no other. At Cheyenne, Wyoming’s, , you’ll hoot and holler for the many on-site activities, like horseback riding, home cooked dinners at the steakhouse and rides on their custom-built, scaled-down trains. Take a Bison Train Tour to see their ostriches, camels and of course, bison, or choose a Sunday Lunch Train for a good, old-fashioned meal.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Alabama: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Located just south of , the provides plenty of options for the whole family, including the one-hour Calera & Shelby Saturday Train Ride that chugs through the beautiful forests of Shelby County and kid-friendly events like the Pumpkin Patch Express and the Santa Special.
PHOTO: Jeff Greenberg
Alaska: Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train
Make the most of a visit to Alaska by riding on , a 12-hour journey from to . On a clear day, you'll have full view of the train's namesake landmark, (formerly Mount McKinley), which is the tallest peak in North America.
PHOTO: Kerrick James / ARRC
Arizona: Grand Canyon Railway
The offers a 65-mile, 2-hour and 15-minute train ride along the edge of the , at an elevation of 5,000 feet. Don't forget to look into the company's popular , offered during the holiday season.
PHOTO: Facebook/Grand Canyon Railroad
Arkansas: Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway
The is open April through October and travels along the restored Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad. In November, the railway offers a distinctive off-season experience with its Saturday Excursion Trains. Have a lovely meal in the 1920s Eurekan Dining Car and view the fall leaves.
PHOTO: Danita Delimont
California: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner
Instead of traveling down California's by car, consider taking in views of the ocean via Amtrak's , which travels from , a journey that's approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes of pure scenic bliss
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum
It doesn’t get much more rough and rowdy than this. Imagine that you’re a 19th-century cowboy and take a ride on the . Choose the Cascade Canyon Excursion and ride a coal-fired locomotive as it chugs along 45 miles of rails originally constructed in 1882. The views of the can’t be beat.
PHOTO: Franz Marc Frei
Connecticut: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Travel by land and by water during an unforgettable excursion the whole family is sure to love. offers a two and a half-hour jaunt that includes a 12-mile ride on a steam locomotive through the Connecticut River Valley. Then, board the Becky Thatcher riverboat and glide in style along the .
PHOTO: Buyenlarge
Delaware: Wilmington and Western Railroad
You might feel as if you’ve traveled in a time machine when you hop onto a train at the . Choose the historic Mt. Cuba Meteor to ride through Delaware’s Red Clay Valley and have a picnic lunch on the Hockessin Flyer, which travels the entire length of the 17-mile line.
PHOTO: David Osberg
Florida: Florida Railroad Museum
Soak up palm trees and lush greenery as you enjoy a 13-mile round trip on a diesel train through the . Don’t miss the museum’s fun events, like the Wild West Train Robbery or the North Pole Express.
PHOTO: John Parra
Georgia: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Take in Georgia's beautiful , , and Toccoa River during this 4-hour open-air ride with . Don't miss their "Firecracker Special," which includes a festive firework show
PHOTO: Courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Hawaii: Kauai Plantation Railway
Now this is a unique way to see Hawaii! Book a ride with the and you’ll coast along through jungles and farmland in a reproduction train from the period of King Kalakaua. The conductor will stop during the trip to allow travelers to hike in a rainforest and pick their own tropical fruits.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/duluoz cats
Idaho: Thunder Mountain Line
As Idaho’s , you’ll be amazed at the scenery as you travel alongside the Payette River and . For an exceptionally one-of-a-kind experience, book the “Raft and Rails” package in which participants take an hour and a half-long train ride to the rapids of the Payette River. Get ready for a heart-pounding rafting adventure!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Memo Cordova
Illinois: Illinois Railway Museum
Your kids will love seeing all of the cool trains on display at the . This huge place holds the largest collection of historic railway equipment in North America. After taking in all that history, hit the rails for a 45-minute ride on a train of yore.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Indiana: Whitewater Valley Railroad
The in Connersville, Indiana takes visitors to , a restored canal town with a working grist mill, horse-drawn canal boat, shops, restaurants and more.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/J. Stephen Conn
Iowa: Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad
In the midst of the quiet Iowa cornfields, you’ll find an authentic railroad offering a myriad of events and excursions. The offers rides in 1920s coach cars through a picturesque valley, and they have dinner and picnic trains, too.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/photolibrarian
Kansas: Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad
Speed along through the Kansas countryside on a steam locomotive from the . In addition to their regular passenger trains, the railroad also has dinner train rides complete with classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths and tasty fare.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Lane Pearman
Kentucky: Kentucky Railway Museum
New Haven, Kentucky is home to the , the oldest rail museum in the state. See the rolling green fields and farmland from a locomotive or book a private excursion on the caboose. Now that’s a cool idea for a birthday party!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Anthony
Louisiana: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited Tour
Start in the grand city of New Orleans and head out to equally grand landscapes on an the tour between Louisiana and California. You’ll scope out bayous, deserts and mountains during this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Miguel Discart
Maine: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum
This peaceful 35-minute train ride with the allows you to see the splendor of Portland up close, riding along the Eastern Promenade of Casco Bay.
PHOTO: Portland Press Herald
Maryland: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
For a wide variety of different train excursions, look no further than Cumberland’s . They have family-focused trips that include a Fall Foliage Experience and Christmas Trains and they also offer an adults-only New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/jpmueller99
Massachusetts: Cape Cod Central Railroad
There’s a good reason why this railroad has been featured on the Food Network show "Dining on the Train." The specializes in exquisite adventures through sand dunes, cranberry bogs and sandy shores, all while you dine or listen to a narrator share history on the area.
PHOTO: KenWiedemann
Michigan: Greenfield Village
, Michigan’s, is a top destination for Henry Ford fans (you can take a ride in a real Model T!) and train enthusiasts alike. The historic attraction provides rides on the Weiser Railroad where you’ll be pulled by one of the oldest steam engines in existence.
PHOTO: Wolfgang Kaehler
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Railroad
This is one of the best ways to see Lake Superior. Although a walk along the lake would be pleasant, a train ride with Duluth’s is even better. During the summer, board the Duluth Zephyr to see waterfront views of Lake Superior and the Lester River.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Pete Markham
Mississippi: Pullman Rail Journeys’ Tracks of the Deep South Tour
See the very best of the South during this amazing trip from . During the which includes jaunts to and , you’ll also get the chance to go on an incredible Mississippi jazz sightseeing cruise.
PHOTO: Rory Patterson / EyeEm
Missouri: Branson Scenic Railway
You’ll marvel at the grandeur of the Ozarks when you take a ride with the . After making its way through Branson, the route dips down into Arkansas and you can pick either a Regular Excursion or the Dinner Train.
PHOTO: Dennis Macdonald
Montana: Alder Gulch Railway
This short-but-sweet train ride with the is only 15 minutes long, but it’s definitely worth it. Between Virginia City and Nevada City, you’ll travel on what’s called the “short line” and behold towering pines and Montana terrain.
PHOTO: Mark Miller Photos
Nebraska: Omaha Zoo Railroad
The railroad at Omaha’s is a real-life tale of the Little Engine That Could. You might be picturing one of those small trains for kids that travels around a zoo, but this one is in its own category: it’s a steam locomotive that rides along a heritage railroad and carries over 200,000 visitors per year. It’s an entertaining way to see the zoo’s animal residents.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
Nevada Northern Railway Museum
Hitch a ride on a century-old train at the and try out a new way to stargaze. The museum offers an excursion called the Great Basin Star Train that travels to a remote area of the Steptoe Valley, which is famous for its pristine star-viewing. There, local rangers set up telescopes and share their astronomical knowledge.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Travel Nevada
New Hampshire: The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Open late April through November, the in , offers a thrilling adventure as you ascend the 6,288-foot summit of . Once at the top of the three-mile track, you'll be surrounded by mountain views as you travel through New Hampshire and Maine as well as an eastern view of the Atlantic Ocean.
PHOTO: Courtesy of The Mount Washington Cog Railway
New Jersey: Black River & Western Railroad
Make family memories with a ride on New Jersey’s . Jump on a steam locomotive and participate in themed rides, like the North Pole Express and Pumpkin Junction excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Vilseskogen
New Mexico: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
It doesn’t get much more scenic than this. The based in takes passengers on an unforgettable 64-mile ride through the and makes its way up to . You’ll be astounded by the views of canyons, deserts and meadows as you whiz by.
PHOTO: Blaine Harrington III
New York: Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Hiking the is a breathtaking experience. But if you’d prefer to see the peaks and pinnacles from the comfort of a train, you’re in luck. The has two stations to choose from and they each provide different excursions. Little ones will delight in the Family Halloween Train and the Beer & Wine Train is geared toward adults.
PHOTO: John Greim
North Carolina: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The in North Carolina offers two scenic train rides that the whole family will surely love. Ride alongside the during the 4.5-hour Nantahala Gorge Excursion, or take the four-hour Tuckasegee River Excursion to ride past a spot where the 1993 film "The Fugitive" was filmed.
PHOTO: Facebook/Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
North Dakota: Magic City Express
This is a train ride that the kiddos will really enjoy. On a scaled-down version of a historic locomotive, take a mile-long ride on the around Minot’s Roosevelt Park and then walk over to the next door to see lions, tigers and bears — oh my!
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkSam DeLong
Ohio: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
The offers several family-friendly train options. Whether you decide to take a ride on the company's or its Santa Train during the holidays, these train rides along promise some of the most scenic views of Ohio.
PHOTO: Facebook/Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Oklahoma: Oklahoma Railway Museum
At the , your family will make a 45-minute trek in a passenger coach pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive and explore the sights of . Come back for the Halloween Train and Christmas Train excursions.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Josh Friedman
Oregon: Mount Hood Railroad
Mount Hood Railroad offers three seasonal train excursions, perfect if you're looking for an adventurous new way to foster family bonding. Travel through woods, orchards and vineyards aboard the June through October , see the rich colors of , Oregon's, fall foliage during the train ride or enjoy an Old West-themed adventure on the ride, which is offered July through September.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Pennsylvania: Strasburg Railroad
Travel through the scenic in 's coal-burning steam train, built more than 175 years ago. This Pennsylvania-based railroad has great options for kids including their and the Christmas train.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Strasburg Railroad
Rhode Island: Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad
The has train rides for every member of the family. As you steam around Rhode Island’s Aquidneck Island, you can savor gourmet eats on the Grand Bellevue Dinner Train, see a retelling of “A Christmas Carol” on the Dickens Holiday Dinner Theatre Train or relish fall on the Autumn Harvest Bistro Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/MarkC Hanchey
South Carolina: South Carolina Railroad Museum
At the , you can take a ride with the Rockton, Rion & Western Railroad and see the panoramas of the idyllic South Carolina countryside. Choose from the dining car with picture windows, a 1952 passenger car, a 1940 caboose or an open-air car.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/civilengtiger
South Dakota: 1880 Train
Nestled in the , you can make like Wild Bill and take an authentically-Western train ride. Board an and learn about the history of the region through a two-hour, narrated excursion. These rides are offered through the Black Hills Central Railroad, the oldest continuously-operating tour railroad in the United States.
PHOTO: Photo by Mike Kline (notkalvin)
Tennessee: Tennessee Valley Railroad
It’s as if the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" has come to life! Glenn Miller would have undoubtedly enjoyed a train ride through ’s , where you’ll see the Tennessee scenery speeding by during your ride. The excursions each have throwback names, like the Missionary Ridge Local, Summerville Steam Special, Copperhill Special and Hiwassee Loop.
PHOTO: Stephen Saks
Texas: Texas State Railroad
Get ready to be transported back in time once you step aboard the 's 1920s train car. You'll travel through Texas' Piney Woods during your 50-mile, four-hour journey. For the kids, the sets up a pumpkin patch during the fall and offers a , which begins in November.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Texas State Railroad
Utah: Heber Valley Railroad
Hop onboard the 's 1907 vintage steam locomotive to see amazing views of and . Make sure your kiddos are also on the lookout for bald eagles, deer and elk along the 16-mile ride.
PHOTO: Facebook/Herber Valley Railroad
Vermont: Green Mountain Railroad
Vermont is certainly a gorgeous state, and we think that the best way to see its beauty is from a train. Based in Burlington, you can look at waterfront locales and fall foliage from a dinner train or the popular “Cocktails on the Rails” excursion.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/nigelmenzies
Virginia: The Gypsy Express
Although this one isn’t as grandiose as some train rides, we love it all the same. mini train in Staunton, Virginia, is simply charming and perfectly-suited for little ones. For the past 60 years this tiny train has been enchanting visitors with its trek around Gypsy Hill Park. It just might be the most adorable train ride you’ll ever take.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/Aaron Webb
Washington: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight
Dubbed , not only offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean you'll ever see, it's also one of the most affordable adventures out there — ! This special trip ventures from to over the course of 35 hours, but you can enjoy an abbreviated version by getting off at one of its 30 west coast stops.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Amtrak
West Virginia: Cass Scenic Railway
Catch a ride on one of the steam-driven locomotives through West Virginia's . Be sure to pack your camera for beautiful shots of the
PHOTO: Courtesy of West Virginia State Parks
Wisconsin: Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Wisconsin’s train mecca, otherwise known as the , lies in and takes visitors on rides through the exquisite Baraboo Hills. They have excursions for nearly every holiday, including the Pumpkin Special, Stars and Stripes Special and the Snow Train.
PHOTO: Flickr Creative Commons/clare_and_ben
Wyoming: Terry Bison Ranch
This is a train-ride experience like no other. At Cheyenne, Wyoming’s, , you’ll hoot and holler for the many on-site activities, like horseback riding, home cooked dinners at the steakhouse and rides on their custom-built, scaled-down trains. Take a Bison Train Tour to see their ostriches, camels and of course, bison, or choose a Sunday Lunch Train for a good, old-fashioned meal.
PHOTO: Richard Cummins
See the states in a new way
You’ve traveled by car and by plane — but your kids have never seen America like this. For your next , hop on board one of these amazing train trips and get ready to take in some seriously beautiful views. Rail travel might seem like a thing of the past, but we guarantee your kids will love these
