Trains are one of the best ways to experience nature. Unlike hiking, no strenuous effort is required to enjoy the scenery — you just sit back, relax, and take it all in. And Texas train rides are possibly one of the best things to do in Texas! On the Texas State Railroad, passengers embark on a 50-mile round-trip journey into the majestic Piney Woods. Here’s a glimpse into what you’ll see along one of the most scenic train rides in Texas.

The railroad dates back to 1881 when prisoners from the East Texas Penitentiary laid down the first 1.3 miles of track.
Google/The Official Travel Channel
In 1909, the remainder was finished and Rusk was officially connected to Palestine. Over a century may have gone by since then, but little has changed — riding the rails means getting whisked back in time to an era where steam engines were king.
Both depots have upscale gift shops and historical storyboards, and beautiful parks, but the Rusk end, in particular, is an adventure in itself.
Google/Texas State Railroad Rusk Depot
With a vintage movie theater and campground through which real locomotives run, it extends your fun beyond the actual ride.
Not only is the surrounding scenery beautiful, but so are the structures you'll pass through along the route.
Flickr/nakrnsm
The path has 24 bridges, one spanning more than 1,000 feet. Even more interesting is an original locomotive turntable located midway through the route, a sighting that was commonplace back in the day but almost nonexistent now.

Related Stories

Climb Aboard The Christmas Express Train On Jefferson Railway In Texas For An Enchanting Holiday Adventure

Climb Aboard The Christmas Express Train On Jefferson Railway In Texas For An Enchanting Holiday Adventure

 A Chinese Lantern Boat Parade Is Lighting Up The San Antonio River Walk In Texas Until February 8

A Chinese Lantern Boat Parade Is Lighting Up The San Antonio River Walk In Texas Until February 8

 Hop On The Ghost Bus And Take A Haunted Tour Of Texas' Most Paranormally Active City, San Antonio

Hop On The Ghost Bus And Take A Haunted Tour Of Texas' Most Paranormally Active City, San Antonio
Depending on which excursion you choose, the train car might be more luxurious than a first-class airplane seat.
Google/Texas State Railroad Rusk Depot
Romantic rides filled with relaxing jazz, dim lighting, and fine wine take place several times throughout the year. Keep checking the schedule to stay in-the-know about upcoming events.
You'll learn all about the Piney Woods while on board, from history to ecology and everything in-between.
Flickr/Roy Luck
The extremely knowledgeable tour guides make the trip as informative as possible while keeping it entertaining. You'll leave feeling like the last four hours couldn't possibly have been spent in a better way.
Themed rides are held periodically to keep the magic alive for passengers young and old.
texasstaterailroad.net
This is the locomotive ride-along, where you'll be seated between the conductor and engineer to assist in operating the train. It's one of the best family friendly attractions in Texas!
If you want to experience the unforgettable journey for yourself, there's ample opportunity to do so. Rides are on the schedule nearly every Thursday-Sunday, so you'll never miss your chance!
Flickr/Roy Luck
The Rusk Depot, where most of the trains depart from, is located at 535 Park Rd. 76 Rusk, TX 75785. Don't miss your chance to experience one of the most magnificent railroads in Texas!

Have you ever ridden on the Texas State Railroad? What excursion did you do and did you enjoy this scenic train ride in Texas?

For more information on all of the excursions, visit the Texas State Railroad website.

If you’re still googling “train rides near me,” here are 5 incredible Texas day trips you can take by train.

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

More to Explore

scenic train ride in Texas

Elisa Regulski | November 28, 2019

Where can I ride a train in Texas?

There are so many incredible spots to ride a train in Texas, such as:

  • The Grapevine Vintage Railroad, which offers visitors a unique trip back in time. This amazing adventure takes visitors to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Enjoy a full day of shopping, eating, and sightseeing. If you really want to feel like a Texan, there’s no better place to go!
  • If you loved this, then you should also book a ride on the Texas Eagle. This train leaves from all across the state and can take you to the exciting city of San Antonio. It’s the ultimate day trip! Enjoy a relaxing journey on the rails and spend a day strolling through this city’s fascinating history and heritage.

Are there any railroad museums in Texas?

  • The Texas Transportation Museum

If you really love trains, there’s no better place to go than the Texas Transportation Museum in San Antonio. This fascinating place was built in 1964, and it’s full of fascinating relics from the past. Visitors can stare at old railroad vehicles from the Longhorn and Western Railroad. In addition to this incredible display, the Texas Transportation Museum has an intricate model train exhibit. Plan a day trip to this one-of-a-kind place and learn all about Texas’s unique history.

Are there any other train-themed attractions in Texas?

If you loved the Texas Transportation Museum, then you’ll also enjoy visiting:

  • The New Braunfels Historic Railroad and Modelers Society. This intriguing spot sits inside a renovated rail depot and has a wide variety of exhibits. Stare at old train cars and marvel at the intricate model train displays. It’s the perfect attraction for people young and old.
  • For more train-themed fun, visit the James H. Long Railroad Park and Museum in Smithville, Texas. In addition to the educational exhibits, this destination has a whimsical play area that’s perfect for young ones.

Related Articles

Explore Texas

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