5 Epic Train Rides In Washington That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

Train rides in Washington are truly amazing at any time of year. Who doesn’t love a train ride? We all do, right? It’s such a fun way to travel, with unique sights and sounds that you just can’t get through any other mode of transportation. Not to mention, the Pacific Northwest has some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and scenery. Washington was once home to three continental railroads: the Northern Pacific, the Great Northern, and Milwaukee Road. Even today, the train may be considered outdated as a standard mode of transport, but you can still find some great train trips in Washington state. Check out some of our favorite Washington train trips:

Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum, 1101 SW Sylvenus St, Chehalis, WA 98532, USA

The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum Facebook

Editor's Note: The trains and tracks at the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum have been undergoing repairs. Rides are not currently being offered at this time, and no date is set for a return to services. Keep an eye on the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum website for the most up-to-date information about a return to services.

The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum is committed to preserving the area's railroad history. It even operates on a former Milwaukee track. When rides are being offered, you can choose between several different routes, or even go all out and book an escape room train. This railway offers up some of the best dinner train rides in Washington state. You'll definitely want to check it out as soon as rides are back on the schedule!

Lake Whatcom Railway, 5159 N.P. Road, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284, USA

Lake Whatcom Railway

The Lake Whatcom Railway has the goal of preserving our rich Pacific Northwest train heritage. The coaches here are over 100 years old. What a cool way to experience history! This is definitely one of the best Washington train trips.

Check out this great video from the conductor's point of view:

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Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad Mechanical Shop, 54124 Mountain Hwy E, Elbe, WA 98330, USA

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad Mechanical Shop/Google Reviews

This gorgeous train trip in Washington State is incredibly scenic and also educational. The steam train will take you to a logging museum where you can learn stories about early railroad pioneers and logging camps. This is one of the best scenic train rides in Washington, so check your calendar and pencil in your next trip.

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Northwest Railway Museum, Snoqualmie Depot, 38625 SE King St, Snoqualmie, WA 98065, USA

Northwest Railway Museum/Facebook

Visit the historic depot at the Northwest Railway Museum and learn how the railway system changed our state. Then take a beautiful 70-minute round-trip train ride through the area. The museum also offers special rides, like A Day Out With Thomas for kids and holiday-themed rides at Christmas.

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, 207 Railroad Ave, Yacolt, WA 98675, USA

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (BYCX)/Facebook

This heritage train ride in Washington operates seasonally and is particularly beloved for the beautiful fall foliage train trips. The season typically runs from May or June through December, with plenty of opportunities for fun. This is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit operation run by people who truly love trains.

Have you experienced one of these historic train rides in Washington?

A train ride might not be exactly like a road trip, but if you’re a planner and want to prepare for the time on the tracks, make sure to check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List.