Train rides in Texas are one of the most fun and relaxing ways to take in the scenery a place has to offer. It is one of my favorite ways to really see a state and its beauty. The Texas State Railroad operates in all four seasons. Climb aboard a 1920s vintage train car and ride the rails, admiring the beautiful Piney Woods landscape! Ready to go on one of the very best scenic train rides in TX?

Not Your Average Bucket List – Podcast Episode

Our travel experts and Not Your Average Bucket List podcast hosts, Sara and Marisa, discuss more about what to expect from the Texas State Railroad. From the train depots included in the railroad to some tips and tricks from locals, we take a deeper dive into this beloved scenic train ride in Texas. Is audio more up your alley? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Click below.

All aboard the Texas State Railroad for a scenic train ride that runs year-round.
Flickr/Roy Luck
Nestled deep in the Piney Woods of far East Texas, the 50-mile journey between Rusk and Palestine is a convergence of history, nature, and adventure. It is one of the most popular scenic train rides in Texas. And for good reason too!
The vintage train cars date to the 1920s, and you'll learn all about the fascinating history of the railroad during this awesome TX train ride.
Google/Farmer Joe
As you gaze out the window at the densely forested landscape, you'll see over 100 species of birds and a variety of unique plant life - including the famous loblolly pine tree, which can grow to heights of over 100 feet. You'll also cross 24 bridges along the way!
Several different seating classes let you choose your desired level of luxury.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad
From coach all the way up to Presidential Parlor cars - once reserved only for the likes of railroad barons and mining kings - there's something for everyone on this scenic train ride in TX.
As the seasons change, so does the surrounding landscape during these lovely train rides in Texas.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad
In the spring, vibrant blooms line the railroad tracks, making for a picture-perfect scene.

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Special events are held throughout the year, including the ever-popular summer series known as "Wine in the Pines."
Facebook/Texas State Railroad
This romantic moonlit ride features wine samples from local vineyards, plus appetizers and dinner.
In the fall, it's time for the annual Pumpkin Patch Express!
Facebook/Texas State Railroad "Official"
Fun for kids and adults alike, this 30-minute round-trip excursion leads to a pumpkin patch filled with games, prizes, and tons more festive fun. Each child gets to pick their very own pumpkin to bring home!
By far the most popular TX train ride is the Polar Express.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad "Official"
It's an exact recreation of the classic children's book, complete with singing and dancing chefs, golden tickets, and a stop at the North Pole. You'll want to buy tickets many months in advance - they sell out well before the holiday season begins.

Take a look at this video of The Texas State Railroad made by @texashighways:

Visit the TSR website or the TSR Facebook page to learn more and/or purchase tickets for any of the railroad’s regular or themed train rides in Texas.

To learn even more about the Texas State Railroad and these incredible TX train rides, you can also watch our Not Your Average Bucket List podcast episode on YouTube!

Not Your Average Bucket List podcast
Not Your Average Bucket List / YouTube

What are your go-to train rides in Texas? What’s your favorite time of year to embark on a train journey? Tell us in the comments!

Consider staying for awhile around Rusk. Check out what Booking.com has for accommodations.

For another train-themed adventure in TX, check out this epic railroad road trip in Texas.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Texas State Railroad & Related Info

Jennifer | January 10, 2023

Does Texas have any trains?

The iron horse has played a major role in Texas history since the 1800s. In fact, in terms of sheer track mileage, no other state tops the Lone Star State when it comes to train travel. From modern Amtraks to vintage steamers to themed passenger rides, Texas is big on rails even today - and the state has dozens of lines crisscrossing the state to choose from. Some of the most popular passenger trains and railroad lines in Texas are:

  • Austin Steam Train
  • Future Texas High-Speed Train
  • Grapevine Vintage Railroad
  • Heartland Flyer
  • Jefferson Railway
  • Piney Woods Excursion Train At Texas State Railroad
  • Texas Eagle
  • Trinity Metro TEXRail
  • Trinity Railway Express

 

Are there any train museums in Texas?

With so much rail history under its belt, you can bet that Texas is home to an equally large number of small-town, specialty, and large-scale museums documenting the railroad industry. Tucked away in every corner of the state, many of these fantastic museums are even housed in historic train depots! Some of Texas' must-see historic depots, railroad museums, and transportation museums are:

 

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Featured Addresses
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Rd 70, Palestine, TX 75801, USA
Texas State Railroad - Rusk Depot, 535 Park Rd 76, Rusk, TX 75785, USA