from the publishers of: Verywell, Real Simple, EatingWell, Shape, Parents, Health and Allrecipes
Embrace the romance and nostalgia of old-fashioned train travel with a relaxing ride where the emphasis is on the journey rather than the destination. From steep mountain climbs and jaunts through marshlands to journeys across trestle bridges and jaw-dropping gorges, the geographic diversity of the South is on full display. In no particular order, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most scenic routes you can experience on the Southern rails.
Multiple locations
If your objective is to see as much of the South as possible on a single ride, try the Amtrak Crescent. Service begins in the Big Apple and ends in the Big Easy with stops in Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. This epic journey ventures across big cities, charming small towns, and open landscapes in approximately 30 hours with ticket options that include both sleeping cars and dining packages.
Kentucky
Owned and run by the McCreary County Heritage Foundation, the Big Fork Scenic Railway offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the historic Kentucky and Tennessee Railway line. The 30-minute ride to Barthell Coal Camp includes a two-hour layover to tour the mines and take in views of the Cumberland Plateau in the southernmost portion of the Appalachian Mountains. Reserve a Coal Miner’s Lunch in advance, which includes a half sandwich, chips, moon pie, and drink of choice.
Georgia
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which shares its name with the charming mountain town in north Georgia, gives unforgettable journeys through the Appalachian foothills. Riders can choose from either open-air or climate-controlled cars for the 26-mile excursion. The tracks follow the Toccoa River most of the way, at one point passing a 500-year-old Cherokee fish weir made from river rock. During the two-hour stopover at their final destination, passengers can walk the Blue Line by putting one foot in Mccaysville, Georgia, and the other in Copperhill, Tennessee. For a four-hour party that won’t soon be forgotten, consider a caboose rental for groups of up to 10. And if you really want to go all out, you can rent the entire train.
Kentucky
Make your way through the Kentucky countryside with a 90-minute excursion on the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad, which operates out of Versailles. Travel in an open-air car or enjoy plush first-class seating; either way, you’ll observe corn and tobacco fields, Thoroughbred horse farms, and the Kentucky River. Check the schedule for specialty rides like holiday trains with Santa.
Missouri
Travel through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains on a vintage passenger train along the Branson Scenic Railway. There’s a Northern route that extends as far as the James River Valley in Galena, Missouri, as well as a Southern route that heads down to the Barren Fork Trestle in Arkansas. Both trips, clocking in at just under two hours, offer passengers a chance to observe wildlife and landscape that’s native to the northwest Arkansas wilderness as well as landmarks dating back to the early 20th century. Once the holiday season rolls around, Polar Express takes over the tracks and all the fun happens after dark. For the two months it’s in operation, families can share in the magic of pajamas, hot cocoa, cookies, and storytime all about Santa and the North Pole.
Florida
The eastern coast of Florida’s newest commuter train features premium service on high-speed trains from Miami to Orlando with stops in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach. All of the reclining leather seats are equipped with power outlets and high-speed Wi-Fi, not to mention access to food and beverage on board. The best part? Continuous views through windows of the surrounding marshlands, sabal palms, and the Atlantic Ocean.
West Virginia
Ride an antique locomotive on a former lumber route up Back Allegheny Mountain to Bald Knob, one of the highest peaks in West Virginia. On a clear day, the open-air cars allow visitors to observe flora and fauna native to the area, such as spruce trees and snowshoe hares. This 22-mile, half-day excursion includes a boxed lunch.
Arkansas
There’s no high-speed rush on the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway. Instead, hit the pause button for two hours, embrace the leisurely pace, and swap out your to-do list for a little idle daydreaming. General tickets include guided narration from the conductor, but to truly transport yourself to the golden era of train travel, you’ll have to reserve a seat on one of their seasonal lunch or dinner trains. These operate May through October, all within climate-controlled cars, and include a tasty meal to enhance your ride. Daytime menus offer an assortment of salads and sandwiches, while the dressier evening jaunts include pasta and prime rib entrees. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard during certain events, but for souvenirs, snacks, and other sundries, hit up the Baggage Room gift shop at the depot before hopping onboard.
North Carolina
Take a front-row seat to the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina with a ride on either a steam-powered train or a diesel locomotive. Various excursions and theme rides are available, but the four-and-a-half hour, 44-mile roundtrip journey from Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge offers the best views of them all. Travel along the historic 777-foot-long trestle bridge across Fontana Lake before arriving at the impressive eight-mile gorge. The Raft and Rail or Rail and Trail packages get you out hiking, exploring, and rafting—all noble pursuits befitting of this region. Come back a second time and try a taste of the Carolinas with a beverage-centric tour. On the adults-only Moonshine Experience, Uncorked, or Beer Run tours, you’ll learn area history, dine on delicious food, and, more than likely, start planning your return visit to Bryson City.
Tennessee
Enjoy views of the Tennessee Valley from this unique single-track system, also known as a funicular, which takes passengers on a one-mile journey up Lookout Mountain. This quintessential Chattanooga attraction has been transporting passengers for over 125 years, including the likes of President Theodore Roosevelt and actress Elizabeth Taylor. Even though the ride lasts only about 10 minutes in each direction, passengers should allow up to an hour for the full experience, including a visit to the observation deck atop Lookout Mountain.
Kentucky
This train is such a fixture in the Bardstown community that the neighborhood kids come out to wave as it passes. And while five-star dining is the attraction’s main draw, there’s more to My Old Kentucky Dinner Train than gourmet meals in vintage dining cars. (Though the thought of that has us swooning already!) Ticketed passengers can also enjoy Princess Tea Parties, Bourbon Excursions, Mother’s Day Brunches, and Murder Mystery Shows. The 32-mile track takes a little over two hours to complete, and natural and man-made attractions like Bernheim Forest and bourbon rickhouses are part of the scenery on the way to Limestone Springs. As the wheels start rolling, a well-rehearsed culinary team gets to work serving up delights like prime rib, Kentucky hot brown sandwiches, and Chocolate Choo-Choo Cake.
West Virginia
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad is named for the South Branch Potomac River and the American bald eagle, two integral parts of their train experiences. Every excursion that departs from Wappacomo Station weaves together stories about local wildlife, landscape, and history. You’ll have great views of the serene South Branch Valley or a magnificent sunset in Trough Canyon from any seat, but the scenery is especially vibrant from the train’s open-top gondola car. Be sure to bring binoculars and cameras as the onboard historian points out different photo opportunities and the wheels slow for oohs and aahs. Birding enthusiasts will especially appreciate riding through the South Branch Valley of West Virginia, where American bald eagles soar through the skies over the Potomac River. Before you book, check out the website’s Class Comparison chart to fully customize dining options, seat assignments, and more.
South Carolina
The folks at South Carolina Railroad Museum like to say “Y’all aboard!” and as the state’s only tourist railroad, they keep an action-packed calendar. Rides on the Rockton, Rion, and Western Railroad last about an hour and, rain or shine, keep to their schedule. Their summer train, the Blue Granite Express, is a nod to one of the area’s abundant natural resources and a recurring theme. During these Saturday runs, the locomotive passes through Greenbriar Cut, a section of granite hill carved out for the railroad. On the BBQ Dinner Train, open-air cars deliver riders to the Rion Crushed Stone office building for their meal. In this historic landmark, also made from granite, scrumptious South Carolina barbecue is served with all the usual sides and, of course, banana pudding. Don’t miss a visit to the museum to scope out its historic stationary cars and vintage artifacts.
Tennessee
The Tennessee Valley Railroad delivers the natural beauty of the state with half- and full-day excursions from Delano and Chattanooga’s East Depot. Their meticulously restored steam engine, #4501, is more than 100 years old and still putting in the miles. The Hiwassee Loop spotlights the Hiwassee River Gorge, nearly 60 miles of blueway that passes through the Cherokee Forest and is popular for boating, fishing, paddling, and rafting. The Homefront Tea Room experience couples a 65-minute ride on their Missionary Ridge Local with a tea and scones break. Their newest unveiling, the Evening Ridge Runner, takes guests through tunnels and bridges basked in late-day sun with dessert or charcuterie boxes to end the day in style.
Texas
Take concert-going to the next level with the Texas State Railroad. Party aboard their train as you make your way to an outdoor Rockin The Rails concert or jazz-infused Speakeasy Special. Get as swanky as you want with both your dress code and your seat choice. Perhaps it’s the Art Deco presidential car, dome observation car, or, for small groups, a private party pad in the caboose. Something else that makes this rail line special is the option to combine the festivities with an overnight camping trip. They have their own TSR campground in nearby Rusk, with both RV and tent campsites featuring amenities like washroom facilities and free WiFi. For parties and the like, there’s also a clubhouse, historic chapel, and lakeside pavilion available for rent.
Tennessee
Explore Knoxville, Tennessee, with an 11-mile journey on the Three Rivers Rambler, which operates using both steam and diesel equipment. From historic sites to pastoral farmland, visitors can expect a view of this unique community. Highlights include the Henley Street Bridge, which connects North and South Knoxville; the Three Rivers Trestle where the French Broad and Holston Rivers combine to form the Tennessee River; and, McNutt Farm, owned by a descendant of a Revolutionary War veteran.
Virginia
Want a front-row seat to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley? Operated by Buckingham Ranch Railroad, the Virginia Scenic Railway offers two excursions daily from Staunton that take travelers on a three-hour roundtrip journey, complete with dining service. The Alleghany Special heads west across rural landscapes and working farms while the Blue Ridge Flyer chugs east in the afternoons through Fishersville and Waynesboro before passing through the mile-long Blue Ridge Tunnel. Reservations can be made months in advance, so there’s no excuse not to pencil it into your vacation plans.
Florida
Calling all Disney World fans! Operating right out of Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park, the Walt Disney World Railroad offers 20-minute, one-and-a-half mile rides throughout the park in vintage narrow-gauge steam trains built in the early 1900s. Passengers may board and/or disembark at any of three stations, including near the park entrance on Main Street, the Frontierland station, or the Fantasyland station.
Maryland
The trains of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad cover a 16-mile stretch between Cumberland and Frostburg. From ice cream rides to the live acoustics of local band Moonlight on the Mountain, this company’s curated experiences make the most of every season. Folks rave about fall for the fabulous autumnal color, but in winter, attendees can dine on brunch while they take in the snowy landscape from a warm and cozy car. Not only are ticket-holders guaranteed to see a different perspective from the tracks but they can feel it, too. Hands on the Throttle is a thrilling chance to get up into the cab and be an engineer for a few miles. And yes, they let you blow the whistle.
Delaware
Wind through some of the most picturesque areas of Delaware on a 10-mile track operated by the Wilmington and Western Railroad. Departing from Greenbank Station, the train crosses Red Clay Creek before rolling past the historic Greenbank Mills and Philips Farm as well as the Wooddale Covered Bridge and old Wooddale Quarry, among other historic sites. Seasonal theme rides as well as private charters are available. Among the impressive collection of the Wilmington and Western Railroad is its self-propelled “doodlebug” train from the 1920s. Nicknamed the Paul Revere, guests can join in on Doodlebug Days when it rolls down the track for an hour-long trip to Yorklyn. Other special events are the Back to School Train, Fireworks Express, and the Grandparents Day Special. Several of the rides allot time for an outdoor break at the Mt. Cuba Picnic Grove. During the stop, passengers can dine al fresco and relax in this peaceful creekside setting which is part of a much larger 600-acre botanical garden.
Alabama
Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum first began as a railroading club in Birmingham. In the early ‘80s, the operation moved 30 minutes south to Calera, and by 1995, its first tourist season was up and running. Today, the Calera & Shelby Railroad line remains as busy as ever from March through December, running primarily on Saturdays. A partnership with nearby Ozan Winery & Distillery means riders can pair their experience with wine tastings, fine cheeses, and a vineyard walking tour, too. Spice up date night with the romantic Sweetheart Special or gather friends for a Morning Wine Brunch Train. Whether you’re interested in spotting fall foliage, spending quality time with mom, or visiting with Santa–the museum’s packed calendar of events accommodates everyone from solo travelers to entire extended families.
Florida
Look to the Florida Railroad Museum for locomotive experiences that bring stories to life. Watch an unruly gang run from the law on a Wild West Train Robbery, or hold your breath as soldiers battle in a Civil War reenactment. On the Willow Express, part of the experience includes time to deboard and walk among the museum’s growing collection of equipment and memorabilia. All of this action unfolds along a six-mile track south of Tampa between Parrish and Willow. Once an abandoned route after the Seaboard Air Line Railroad and Atlantic Coast Line merged in the early 1900s, it’s now part of ongoing revitalization projects which also include a replica of the train station from its heyday.
Florida
TECO streetcars are not only wheelchair accessible and service dog-friendly but they’re completely free to anyone who wants to climb on. It’s been 20 years since Tampa’s seen this style of charming public transit, and the current fleet reimagines that time with 10 historic streetcar replicas and a fully restored Birney car. The 2.7-mile route connects Tampa, historic Ybor City, and the Channel District via 11 stations and cars that run every 15 minutes. For visitors and residents alike, these yellow beauties are a fun, hassle-free way to traverse urban neighborhoods and connect to popular spots like Sparkman Wharf, Tampa Riverwalk, and Port Tampa Bay. And how fun is this? Every fourth Friday, September through May, TECO hosts an onboard concert series called Streetcar Live.
Georgia
All aboard the Georgia Coastal Railway for…karaoke, pizza, clowns, and the Wild West? While there are more “traditional” train experiences to be had, the Georgia Coastal Railroad’s long list of themed options is sure to inspire even the most subdued guests. All rides are under two hours and run roundtrip from Kingsland to St. Marys, Georgia. This leisure line shares the tracks with freight cars, so between the onboard festivities and an active railyard there’s never a dull moment. To top it all off, Kingsland Station is not only a depot and museum, it also holds a 180-seat theater for in-house productions. Upon returning to the station, catch even more entertainment with live theater, musical performances, and comedy nights courtesy of the Kingsland Station Players.
Kentucky
The Kentucky Railway Museum winds its cars through the heart of bourbon country and the birthplace of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. The route follows Lebanon Branch, a vestige from the days of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad of the 1800s, and crosses the Beech Fork River. It’s a seasonal operation from April through December, but their cars are climate-controlled so passengers stay snug and dry whatever the weather. Since many of the rides are on the shorter side, each lasting for only about an hour, they’re ideal for a day trip or easy weekend getaway. Just be sure to book a reservation early for the specialty trips as tickets go fast. Senior and military discounts are available and children under two can join the fun for free.
Maryland
If you love a good “whodunnit,” then a voyage with the Walkersville Southern Railroad is prime time to channel your inner Agatha Christie. Their 21+ Murder Mystery Train continues to be a sellout event. Participants gather in a vintage parlor car, furnished with comfy sofas (more Orient Express vibes), for two hours of intrigue. Charcuterie boxes come with the ticket, but alcohol isn’t served on board so it’s a BYOB-style affair. The train travels at a gentle 10 miles per hour along the Monocacy River so all you have to do is focus on food, fun, and wielding your best detective skills.
Missouri
This part of the state has deep roots in mining and the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern Railway, which dates back to the mid-1800s, was initially built to haul iron ore. Today, the line attracts visitors from all over the world, many of whom come to learn about the local outlaw lore. The line’s 2.5-hour Robber Train Ride to Gordonville tells the true-life tale of a fascinating heist that happened over a century ago. Talented actors bring the story of the Jesse James Gang to life as the steam engine meanders through the woods, windows open. The action carries over at Iron Mountain Junction Village where guests can stretch their legs, make s’mores around a fire, and sip on sarsaparilla.
Oklahoma
Mark your calendars and clear a weekend for Oklahoma City. From April to August, on the first and third Saturdays of the month, the Oklahoma Railway Museum is open for business. Four departure times spaced out throughout the day make planning simple and convenient. Passengers should plan to leave from the historic Oakwood Depot, which is near the Oklahoma City Zoo. Aside from general outings, younger rail fans will be excited to join one of the many family-oriented special events. You’re sure to win Parent of the Year with a birthday party package or a fun-filled day of costumes, scavenger hunts, and sweets on the Halloween Train.
Tennessee
The Tennessee Central Railway Museum leaves no stone unturned when it comes to celebrations. They commemorate everything from Mardi Gras to Oktoberfest (complete with local bier and a German band) to their very own Valenshines Moonshine Tour. The Yard Sale Train is a big draw as is the adults-only Wine Train and Watertown Jazz Festival/Murder Mystery combo. You’ll board from the Railyard District in Nashville, near downtown and the Cumberland River, and head for historic Lebanon or Watertown. For an extra special vantage point, book in advance to snag a seat in their glass dome car. You’ll sit perched above the trees with 360-degree views as you leave behind the busy capital for the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee.
Texas
The city of Austin is loveable for all its offbeat originality and the Austin Steam Train is no exception. Feel like dressing up as your favorite crimefighter for a Princess or SuperHero Train? Ready to make memories on a Wine Train? You can do it all. The Hill Country and Bertram Flyers travel between depots at Burnet, Bertram, and Cedar Park, over the San Gabriel River, and through the rolling grasslands of Texas Hill Country. Each of their gorgeously restored vintage cars offer something different when it comes to amenities and ambiance. Most of the cars are open to all ages but keep in mind a few are for adults only.
Texas
See firsthand what the Lone Star State is all about onboard the aptly-named Grapevine Vintage. Take a tour through the Cotton Belt or explore the historic stockyards in Fort Worth. It’s quite a treat to pull into town, in the middle of the action, and see cowboys steer longhorn cattle through the streets. If time is of the essence, grab a quicker run on the Grapevine Bear Creek Short Line or Trinity River Train. Once you’ve had your history lessons, come back for another spin, this time with more of a celebratory atmosphere. Decorations abound and costumes are encouraged on the Kiss Me I’m Irish Express or Witches Brew Train.
West Virginia
Come to Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad (aka Mountain Rail) for a heritage train ride with the added bonus of a visit to the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Cars depart from Durbin, Elkins, and Cass, a small rural community that sprung up around logging and lumber. The Bald Knob trip climbs to nearly 5,000 feet in elevation and the Whittaker route is a short two-hour jaunt, but if a daytime outing just doesn’t feel like enough, there are overnight options, too. Extend your stay to sleep beside the Greenbrier River in one of their two Castaway Cabooses. Unhitch for a night in this private train car, which comes fully equipped with everything you need for an unforgettable night of glamping in the great outdoors. There’s a full-size shower and restroom, as well as a refrigerator and range, so you can whip up tasty camp meals with ease.
