5 Epic Train Rides In Texas That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience
By Katie Lawrence|Updated on August 15, 2023(Originally published September 05, 2022)
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Train rides are so nostalgic – they transport us back to simpler days before cell phones and radios, days when looking out the window and enjoying the scenery was the only option on a long road trip. If you want to experience the abundant breathtaking beauty of Texas in a unique way, this is your chance. Here are five unforgettable train rides in Texas. And we urge you to try them all.
1. Texas State Railroad
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Rd 70, Palestine, TX 75801, USA
Known as the "Official State Railroad of Texas," this enchanting, 50-mile ride takes passengers on a journey through the evergreen and appropriately named Piney Woods. Passing over 100 bird species, 24 bridges, and a vintage turntable, it's a magical experience that everyone should experience at least once. The Texas State Railroad has a train ride to please everyone in the family - from holiday rides including an Easter Egg Express, Pumpkin Patch Ride, and the most popular Polar Express for the little ones to romantic dinner trains for mom and dad, this is an activity that's sure to spice up your family time. We're partial to the Fall Harvest Lunch Train Ride -- while Dinner Trains often get all the love, there's something so special about enjoying a long and leisurely lunch while gazing out at the Texas countryside during the fall!
2. Austin Steam Train Association Museum
Austin Steam Train Association Museum, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613, USA
The Austin Steam Train is fun for the whole family as well. It offers scenic rides with views of the gorgeous hill country as well as themed events like murder mysteries and a Christmas train for kids where they'll help Mrs. Claus serve cookies and hot cocoa, receive a gift from Santa, and gather 'round for storytime. It's one of the best train trips in Texas for the whole family!
The Grapevine Vintage Railroad takes passengers on an exhilarating journey back to the height of the railroad era with its authentic Victorian coaches. There are several different excursions to choose from - the most popular follows the historic Cotton Belt Route to the Fort Worth Stockyards, and select seasonal scenic Texas train tours are offered throughout the year.
The famous Texas Amtrak runs all over the Lone Star State, providing you with the opportunity to experience any part of the state you wish without all the wear and tear on your own vehicle. The Texas Eagle is a branch of Amtrak, the most well-known passenger train in America. It travels between Chicago and San Antonio, but you can hop on at stations all throughout the state to travel. The Amtrak Texas Eagle has more attractions to enjoy than we could ever list and is one of the best train trips in Texas you can take!
Lastly, we have the Historic Jefferson Railway that gives you the opportunity of a lifetime - riding on a 50-year-old, antique steam locomotive. The main ride runs along the Cypress Bayou and includes seeing historic remains from the 19th century, marveling at native wildlife, and hearing about the rich history of Jefferson. It also stops at the Diamond Don Gator Pit where riders will witness a live feeding of the 14 alligators who live there. There are special events as well, such as a 4th of July celebration with fireworks, a Halloween Runaway Fright train, and a Rail of Lights Christmas train. You're sure to love all the Texas train rides offered here!
Have you ever been on any of these train rides in Texas? What was your experience like?
Looking for an epic, train-themed day trip extravaganza in Texas? We put together this railroad-themed road trip in Texas that will take you to train rides, historic sites, and much more throughout our great state. If you need overnight accommodations along the way, check out the options on Booking.com.
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More to Explore
Train Trips In Texas
Sarah M.|September 10, 2022
Are there any dinner trains in Texas?
If the idea of enjoying a delicious meal during one of the above train trips in Texas sounds like your ideal night out, you'll definitely want to check out the offerings at the Texas State Railroad. Here are some of this railroad's amazing offerings:
