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Scenic Train Rides in Ellsworth, Maine

All aboard.

Join us on the Downeast Scenic Railroad, the first tourist-passenger train to grace the historic Calais Branch Line in decades, and experience the ultimate day trip in the Ellsworth/Acadia area. This is our 15 th year in operation. Come celebrate Maine’s rail history with us!

The train runs on Saturdays and Sundays, from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.

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Downeast Scenic Railroad Tour

The Downeast Scenic Railroad was named Best Day Trip in Down East Magazine readers’ favorites!

Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 Season which starts Memorial Day Weekend. Reserve your seat(s) and experience a blast from the past.

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Established 2010

Fun for the entire family.

The Downeast Scenic Railroad offers a wonderful 12-mile round-trip train ride from Hancock, Maine, through Ellsworth Falls, and across the Union River Bridge on the former Maine Central Railroad. The beautifully restored passenger train, with vintage locomotives and coaches, staffed by our all-volunteer crew, is the first passenger train to run on these tracks since 1960. 

The relaxing hour and 45-minute rides are offered on Saturdays and Sundays beginning Memorial Day weekend through the weekend after Columbus Day. Each train ride is narrated with information about the area and relevant railroad history. Check the schedule on our website for the dates, number of trips per day, times, holidays, and specials. Advanced booking is encouraged. We invite you and your family to come enjoy a leisurely trip back in time. 

• Comfortable seating is provided in our renovated coaches. Picnic table seating is available in our canopy-covered open-air car.
• Bottled water and snacks may be purchased on the train.
• Restroom facilities are available onboard.
• The train is handicap accessible. Our train crew is available to lend a hand.
• Your family dog is welcome onboard as long as it is restrained and friendly. 

Rain or shine, any day on the rails is a great day! 

Come ride the Downeast Scenic Railroad. 

What People Are Saying About Us

The 1-1/2 hour narrated train ride was truly a step back in time. The conductor was extremely knowledgable and passionate. The rail car we rode in had a great background that was explained on a plaque that was highly visible. The ride, turn-around - and "Y" procedure make one appreciate how hard rail travel really was in time past.

Went on this with my dear friends! So glad we did. The crew was wonderful & informative. I’m so glad we didn’t miss this. It is a great ride for the children. Has some great history behind it, also a work in progress that I hope continues for years to come.

Fun Scenic and a historic train ride! for an hour and a half, you can tour the local area from the comfort of the seating on the train-let the engineer do the driving for a bit, slow down, and remember history.

Nice train ride through along a preserved train track. The turn around is particularly interesting. Families would have a fun time on this ride, just long enough-even for smaller kids

9 Epic Train Rides In Missouri That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

Stephanie Butler

A native Midwesterner with a love for family, friends, and learning new things. In second-stage of career life, this former college instructor enjoys contributing to OIYS, blogging, reading, and spending time with her kids.

More by this Author

Missouri train rides are a little hard to find these days, even with all of the beautiful scenery in the state. There are only a handful of regular train trips in Missouri you can take, which are the first showcased below. However, in the interest of entertainment, we have included a few miniature trains in Missouri as well as two train rides in Missouri that are rides in theme parks. While trains were once a major form of transportation for much of the population, today many of the trains run simply for tourism, entertainment, and to preserve train history.

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No matter which of these scenic train rides in Missouri you take or where it takes you, we can all agree that getting there is half the fun.  Are you a fan of trains in Missouri? Tell us!

Missouri train rides aren’t the only way to have some railroad-related fun in the state. There’s also this train museum in Missouri that’s sure to delight railroad enthusiasts of all ages.

If you’re on the hunt for some one of a kind activities in Missouri, we recommend taking a look at Airbnb experiences . The locals have so many intriguing options on offer.

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

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Missouri train rides.

What is the most popular train restaurant in Missouri?

• Fritz's Railroad Restaurant

Missouri train rides aren’t the only way railroad enthusiasts can have some fun in The Show-Me State. There are also train-themed restaurants, like Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant. A popular railroad-themed eatery, the restaurant has a couple of locations in Kansas and one in Kansas City, MO. Fun for train enthusiasts of all ages, the restaurant is decked out in train-themed décor, but that’s not all. Patrons’ meals are actually delivered via a signature overhead train. That’s right; a mini train delivers food straight to the tables. Aside from the setting, it’s the fare Fritz’s is known for. Dating back decades, it should come as no surprise the eatery is famous for its old-fashioned burgers, which, by the way, are made with 100% choice ground beef and always cooked to order.

What are the oldest attractions in Missouri?

• Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

Trains in Missouri aren’t the only way to experience a piece of the past. There are lots of historic attractions in Missouri, where you can immerse yourself in the past, including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. Work on the impressively beautiful place of worship began back in 1905 and took more than a dozen architects and artisans to complete. Today, it’s revered as a “one-of-a-kind work of art,” attracting countless visitors year after year. In addition to the chapel itself, the grounds include a museum, which offers a glimpse into the history of the breathtaking church.

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• Idaho Scenic Train Rides

Idaho Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 13, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

Idaho may only rank as the 11th largest in terms of total land area and 39th in total population.  However, the Gem State enjoys a diverse railroad heritage, ranging from flat deserts in the south to mountainous operations in the Northern Panhandle. 

Today, there are nearly a dozen railroads still in service there.  They include Class I's Union Pacific and BNSF Railway as well as short lines:

• Boise Valley Railroad
• Bountiful Grain & Craig Mountain Railroad
• Eastern Idaho Railroad
• Great Northwest Railroad
• Idaho, Northern & Pacific
• Montana Rail Lin
• Pend Oreille Valley Railroad
• Palouse River & Coulee City Railroad
• St. Maries River Railroad
• Washington & Idaho Railway

These companies remain an important aspect of the state's economy, handling a wide range of products from agricultural and minerals to petrochemicals and wood products (timber, logs, finished products, etc.). 

Unfortunately, Idaho's history with the iron horse is not well represented as few museums can be found there. Until 2016 one could enjoy a train ride targeted as a tourist attraction but this has since closed.

State Rail History

According to an in-depth analysis  Trains Magazine  published in its January, 2007 issue entitled, " Great Railroading: State-By-State ," Idaho's introduction to trains began with the Utah Northern Railroad's (UN) chartering on August 23, 1871. 

In his book, " American Narrow Gauge Railroads ," author and historian Dr. George Hilton points out its purpose was to reach gold mines located near Butte and other points in Montana Territory's southwestern region. 

A project of the Mormons, it was designed to bring funding into the church while also spreading its influence north of Utah.   Led by John W. Young, William B. Preston, and George W. Thatcher the UN was engineered as a 3-foot, narrow-gauge system to reduce construction costs. 

Interestingly, they also chose the alignment due to the nearby Denver & Rio Grande's perceived success although this endeavor had only gotten underway itself. 

Track construction began from Willard, Utah, south of Brigham City, on March 25, 1872 and proceeded northward. 

The effort was very slow but rails finally penetrated Idaho at the small community of Franklin on May 2, 1874.  This event marked the first time a railroad served the state

The financial Panic of 1873, though, proved its undoing.  While additional grading was completed no more tracklaying was carried out and construction stalled.  Between 1875 and 1878, mogul Jay Gould acquired control, leading to Union Pacific's takeover. 

It was subsequently reincorporated as the Utah & Northern Railway (U&N) during April, 1878.  Work was soon underway once more and rails reached Butte, Montana Territory by December, 21, 1881. 

After another year the line was completed to Garrison in November, 1882, a location which became a future interchange point with the Northern Pacific. 

Since Union Pacific had no interest in narrow-gauge operations, the entire property was converted over the years:

• The Butte-Garrison was partially sold to NP and became the Montana Union Railway on August 1, 1886 (it was converted to the standard-gauge of 4 feet, 8 1/2 inches almost immediately).
• The Pocatello-Butte segment (264 miles) was converted July 25, 1887; and finally the Pocatello-Ogden segment was finished on October 1, 1890.  

Altogether, the U&N, which became part of UP's Oregon Short Line subsidiary, proved a successful venture.

While UP controlled virtually all rail service to the south, the Northern Panhandle was quite different.  This rugged region served as the crossing point for three transcontinental corridors; the first was Northern Pacific. 

After several starts and stops, financial setbacks, and delays track construction passed through Idaho during 1883 and a formal "Golden Spike" ceremony, marking the lines completion from Duluth/Superior, Wisconsin to Tacoma, Washington, was held at Gold Creek, Montana on September 8th that year. 

Following the NP was James J. Hill's Great Northern Railway.  It began as the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad (StP&P).  Eventually, the so-called "Empire Builder" gained full control of this enterprise and set out westward. 

It reached Great Falls, Montana in 1888, became the Great Northern Railway a year later, and was completed to the Puget Sound in 1893. 

The last and most interesting endeavor was undertaken by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; long known as a Midwestern "granger" system (handling primarily agricultural products), officials elected to reach the Pacific Northwest in 1905. 

Crews worked from both ends and the so-called "Pacific Extension" was finished by 1909.  It was subsequently renamed as the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific, better known as the Milwaukee Road . 

Between Harlowton, Montana and Avery, Idaho, (near the Montana border) the railroad was electrified to improve efficiency (it also electrified a western component between Othello, Washington and the Puget Sound). 

Unfortunately, the Milwaukee would leave the West for a variety of reasons in 1980.

• Canyon County Historical Museum/Nampa Train Depot Museum

Located in Nampa (along 12th Avenue and Front Street) this museum, which highlights the region's local history, is housed inside the historic Union Pacific depot, a beautiful brick and stone building constructed between 1902-1903.   

It was later donated to the current organization, which officially dedicated the museum on July 3, 1976.  It is operated by the Canyon County Historical Society, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. 

They state their mission is:

" ...to help investigate and preserve for future generations any kind of historical records, documents, sites, buildings, articles and artifacts, pertaining to Canyon County and to promote interest and concern for Canyon County history.

To bring together those people interested in this history and promote better understanding of our state and nation, plus a better appreciation of our American heritage. " 

They are open Thursday - Saturday each week.  Admission is free.

• Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum

This museum is located within Northern Pacific’s attractive brick depot in Wallace, Idaho that was completed in 1901.

The Wallace depot was styled in the chateau design and was actually constructed of brick shipped all of the way from China.

Finished around the turn of the century it played host to passenger trains for years and after services ended was placed on the National Register of Historic Places while still owned by then Burlington Northern. 

It houses a small collection of artifacts related to the local area and other railroads which operated there. Perhaps what the museum is most well known for its annual "Depot Days" event, which generally celebrates transportation, highlighted by a car show. 

For anyone interested in classic/appealing cars you may want to plan a trip to the event! Also, if you are interested in biking and/or the Milwaukee Road, very close by is part of the former Pacific Extension turned into a rail/trail known as the Route of the Hiawatha .

Thunder Mountain Line ( Closed)

Soon after the Idaho, Northern & Pacific took over the Union Pacific’s Oregon Short Line Division in 1993 the railroad began operating its " Thunder Mountain Line " in 1998 as a tourist attraction.

The railroad traveled roughly 60 miles north from Montour, following the Payette River to Cascade next to beautiful Lake Cascade.  

There were three different trips offered including the Horseshoe Bend Route (Horseshoe Bend to Banks), Montour Route (Montour to Horseshoe Bend), and the Cabarton Route (Smiths Ferry to Cascade).

Unfortunately, sagging patronage resulted in the service's suspension in 2016 and there are currently no plans to see it resumed anytime in the foreseeable future.

• Thunder Mountain Line (Closed)

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

11 Best Train Rides in Michigan | Scenic Michigan Train Tours

Michigan has several picturesque routes that you can drive. But it also has several that you can only see on authentic train rides. Through countrysides and historic towns, taking a scenic train ride in Michigan is a fun way to tour the Mitten especially during the fall .

Many of the trains are historic themselves and have been restored to give you the chance to experience a piece of the past. In fact, the state has a rich history in the railroad industry. The next time you want a one-of-a-kind day trip, check out the below train rides in Michigan .

Michigan’s Railroad History

The railroad system in Michigan started in 1833 when the first tracks were laid between Adrian and Toledo on the Erie & Kalamazoo Railroad. Surprisingly, it was a state newspaper — The Western Immigrant — that suggested building a transcontinental railroad the year before.

However, it took three years for horse-powered rail services to start on the line. That’s right! The first rail services were powered with horses, not trains. It wasn’t until 1837 that the first steam locomotive was placed into service on the Erie & Kalamazoo Railroad.

Rail Expansion Across the State

In the meantime, other parts of Michigan started building railways. Construction began on the Michigan Central Railroad in 1836. It connected Detroit with Ypsilanti in 1838, Ann Arbor in 1839, and Jackson in 1841. By this point, the Michigan rail system had grown to more than 104 miles.

By the end of the decade, more rail construction connected Detroit with Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, and New Buffalo, making it the first line to cross the state. This gave Michigan 380 miles of rail line as of 1850. After that, the tracks expanded across state lines, allowing service into Chicago for the first time in 1852. Four years later, a line connecting Detroit to Toledo was completed.

In 1855, the Iron Mountain Railroad was the first common carrier line to be chartered in the Upper Peninsula. Then, the Negaunee-Marquette line was finished in 1857. Michigan had 770 miles of railroad by 1860 and 1,739 miles by 1870. In 1871, the state built 559 miles of mainline track, the most in a single year.

Railroad expansion continued at a significant pace, reaching 3,823 miles by 1880, 6,957 miles by 1890, and 7,946 miles by 1900. Michigan had more than 9,000 miles of track by 1910. Meanwhile, the road system was improving, so more people were using cars and trucks to get around. As a result, the miles of railroad track began to shrink. As of 2010, the length of Michigan’s railroads had dropped to a collective 3,634 miles.

Contribution to Economy

The rail boom had a very important role in Michigan’s economic development. Freight railroads gave shippers a cost-effective means to transport bulk and heavy commodities. The automotive industry still depends on the rails to transport materials between their plants and to move finished vehicles to their markets. Also, the agricultural industry relies on freight rails to ship grains to the marketplace.

Over recent years, freight lines and the trucking industry have collaborated to transport goods via containers. Along with being cost effective, it’s an energy-efficient alternative to trucking because it generates less air pollution. Furthermore, railroads are critical to the country’s defense in terms of transporting heavy weaponry.

Intercity Passenger Services

Intercity passenger service between Kalamazoo and Detroit started in 1846 and was provided by the private railroads until 1971. Then, Amtrak was established to operate a passenger service. This era began with two daily round trips between Detroit and Chicago.

In 1974, the frequency was increased to three daily round trips, and one of them went to Toledo. The Chicago-Port Huron service started the same year, and the Chicago-Grand Rapids service started in 1984. In 1994, the two services that ended in Detroit were extended to Pontiac. The following year, the third service that ended in Toledo was rerouted to Pontiac.

The passenger business remained relatively steady for several years before a major increase during the beginning of the 21st century. Statewide intercity passenger numbers achieved a record high in 2013 and decreased slightly in 2014. The 2013 high may have been influenced by Amtrak launching services that operate at up to 110 mph, the first in the United States outside of the Northeast corridor.

Amtrak and private railroads continue to offer passenger train rides in Michigan, contributing to the state’s economic well-being. The services connect people to educational and career opportunities, increase productivity, encourage tourism, raise property values around the stations, and enhance environmental efficiency.

Train Rides in Michigan Upper Peninsula

Lake linden and torch lake railroad.

On the west side of the Upper Peninsula in Lake Linden, the Houghton County Historical Society runs a museum complex with a wide selection of exhibits, including large machines that are displayed outdoors. The Keweenaw Peninsula village used to be home to the biggest copper milling operation on the continent, and the society showcases its importance. The museum building has three floors with artifacts and other items regarding local mining, logging, and cultural history.

Among these exhibits is a working Calumet & Hecla Mining Co. train, which you can ride on the Lake Linden and Torch Lake Railroad . These historic train rides in Michigan are available during the summer and part of October for Halloween-themed adventures. The train travels a ⅖-mile loop around the museum campus, and the cheap ticket fees pay for track and car maintenance. If you live in the area, annual family passes are available. Once you’ve finished your train ride head to Marquette for a beautiful color tour .

Tahquamenon Falls Riverboat Tour & the Famous Toonerville Trolley

Tahquamenon Falls Riverboat Tours has been offering riverboat and scenic train rides in Michigan since 1927. The tours are located on a logging site that was once operated by Robert Hunter. He purchased the 15,000 acres in the early 1900s and had a small rail line — the Hunter and Love Line — built to aid the work.

At the time, lumberjacks would stack harvested trees on the river bank in the winter. When spring came, the river would thaw, swell from the melting snow, and carry the logs downstream and over Upper Tahquamenon Falls (the Niagara of Michigan) to Lake Superior. In the process, though, many of the trees would absorb too much water and sink, or they would sustain damage going over the falls.

The Duluth South Shore and Atlantic Railroad built the Hunter and Love Line, which spurred from Soo Junction, Michigan, to the sawmill about 5.5 miles away. The 24-inch gauge railroad was completed in 1910, aiding the transport of the harvested trees.

Hunter completed his logging operation in 1925, at which time the sawmill and railroad spur were shut down. Eventually, the rail was reopened to shorten Joe Beach’s daily river patrol as a conservation officer at the McNearney Farm along the river. Then, he got the idea to start a waterfall tour business using the rail line and a riverboat.

You can experience the 6.5-hour tour for yourself. It begins at Soo Junction with a 35-minute ride on the Toonerville Trolley — a narrow gauge train — and is followed with a 2-hour narrated cruise on a riverboat. Once you reach the rapids above Upper Tahquamenon Falls, you can disembark and hike the ⅝-mile trail to see the falls. You get about 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore the area before returning to Soo Junction.

Southwest Michigan Train Rides

Coopersville & marne railway.

Offering historic train rides in Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway is an all-volunteer railway that operates vintage locomotives and passenger cars from the 1920s. First laid in 1858, the tracks run for about 14 miles from Coopersville to Grand Rapids . However, the passenger service only travels 7 miles between Coopersville and Marne. The rest of the line between Marne and Grand Rapids is reserved for hauling freight cars.

The passenger services run between spring and winter, preserving a part of Michigan’s railroad history and educating you along the way. During the ride, the train crosses over an open deck girder bridge, a road bridge, and four creeks. Part of the way, the track runs alongside Interstate 96. Upon arrival in Marne, the vintage locomotive detaches from the cars, moves onto the passing tracks, and reattaches to the other end of the train to pull it back to Coopersville — all within about 90 minutes.

On Saturdays during the summer, the railway operates EnterTRAINment Excursions. These rides feature a variety of musicians and the Singing Trainman, who performs railroad and other acoustic songs. You even learn about the railroad history and equipment from the conductor. In addition, the Coopersville & Marne Railway offers specialty train rides throughout the year:

• The Bunny Train operates in the spring and features the Easter Bunny with a cast of musical, wacky characters who perform and pass out toys.
• The Veterans Free Troop Train operates around Memorial Day weekend, offering free rides to veterans.
• The Great Train Robbery is an event that takes you back to 1858, giving you the thrill of the Wild Old West with a shootout between recognizable characters.
• The Murder Mystery Train involves solving a simple robbery that turns into a murder mystery.
• The Famous Pumpkin Train is a fall train rides Michigan tradition featuring the Scarecrow, Little Crow, and Grand Pumpkin.
• The Santa Train in the winter gives kids a chance to meet Santa and his friends and listen to Christmas-themed stories told by a Princess.

Little River Railroad

Using an authentic steam engine train that’s more than 100 years old, the Little River Railroad offers scenic train rides in Michigan. The ride runs from Coldwater to Quincy or Hillsdale before returning to Coldwater. When the train gets to Quincy or Hillsdale, it takes about 30 minutes for the locomotive to detach and reattach for the return journey. During this time, you’re allowed to get out of the passenger car and watch the process.

The price and length of the train rides depend on the theme that Little River Railroad has planned. Here’s an overview:

• The Lazy Days summer rides and Holiday Express with Santa last for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• The Easter Bunny Express with an Easter Egg Hunt, Father’s Day ride, Quincy Flyer, and Fall Pumpkin Train last about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• The Hillsdale Flyer is about 4 hours because the city is farther away than Quincy.

Additionally, you can rent a passenger car or the entire train. It’s a unique way to celebrate a birthday, family reunion, company event, or other gathering.

Train Rides in Southeast Michigan

Steam railroading institute.

Operating the famous Pere Marquette No. 1225 , the Steam Railroading Institute offers some of the most popular train rides in Michigan. The institute manages a museum complex where the former Ann Arbor Railroad roundhouse and steam shops were located in Owosso. Through the summer, the complex is open for tours.

When you first arrive, go to the Welcome Center to see a model railroad layout, a collection of archival materials and artifacts, and other exhibits. A volunteer guide can take you through the museum and give you a behind-the-scenes peek at the collection and equipment. The highlight of the tour is visiting the back shop where the Pere Marquette rests when it’s not in operation. Make sure that you visit the gift shop for fun railroad toys, souvenirs, and specialty gifts before leaving.

Throughout the year, you can ride the Pere Marquette 1225 , one of the biggest operating steam locomotives in Michigan. It’s famous for being the muse for the 2004 animated film “The Polar Express.” The animated train was created based on its blueprints and sounds. Although weekend trips and sporadic all-day excursions are available during the year, the 1-hour The Polar Express train ride in Michigan attracts a lot of people in December.

In addition, the SRI complex features a 7.5-gauge miniature railroad. The little train operates between the rails and parallel with the Shiawassee River Trail. It’s a fun ride for all ages and is only available on Fridays and Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Huckleberry Railroad at Crossroads Village

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, you have the chance for scenic train rides in Michigan on the Huckleberry Railroad . The railroad was part of Flint Pere Marquette Railroad Company when it was put into operation in 1857. The line got its name from the trains running so slow that a person could jump off, pick some huckleberries, and jump back on without much effort.

You can ride this historic line on a 40-minute journey from Crossroads Village. The railroad operates three locomotives — one diesel, one coal-fired, and one steam — on a rotation to accommodate repairs and improvements. The locomotives pull original and replica wooden coaches along Mott Lake and down the historic Pere Marquette roadbed before turning back to Crossroads Village.

For a couple of weekends during the summer, you have the chance to spend the day with Thomas the Tank Engine. The event features a ride on Thomas, meeting with Sir Topham Hatt, lawn games, and more. It’s an exciting event for young kids who love watching Thomas at home.

Also, Crossroads Village has more than 34 historic structures to explore. You can’t visit for a train ride without catching a show at the opera house, learning about craftsman trades, or hopping on amusement rides. Your ride on the Huckleberry Railroad is only one small part of an all-day adventure.

Michigan Transit Museum

In Mt. Clemens, the Michigan Transit Museum is located in the old Mount Clemens Train Station, which was built in 1859 and operated until 1980. The building is on the National Registry of Historic Places and houses a range of exhibits that keep alive Michigan’s railroad history. During its operation, the depot was part of a 60-mile line that ran between Detroit and Port Huron.

A harrowing story at the depot — Thomas Edison saved the son of the station agent in 1862. The boy was on the tracks and in the path of a boxcar. As thanks, the station agent taught Edison telegraphy, which started his short railroading career and some of his earliest inventions.

Aside from exhibits, the Michigan Transit Museum offers train rides on its continuously restored equipment. The coaches are pulled by a former United States Air Force Baldwin-Lima-Hamilton RS4TC diesel switcher. Only the military owned this specific model, and the museum is one of several places across the country that has one to preserve. All of the train rides are about 45 minutes and feature a different theme throughout the year:

• Summer trains run mid-June to mid-September
• Fall Harvest trains run from mid-September to mid-October
• Trick-or-Treat trains run at the end of October
• Holiday Express trains run in December

Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford Museum

The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn is an internationally recognized destination that immerses visitors in the innovation and resourcefulness that helped make the United States what it is today. It’s a historic landmark with an exceptional collection of artifacts that spans 300 years of history and continues to grow.

Greenfield Village is part of the experience, offering historic train rides in Michigan. The operating steam-powered locomotive is one of the oldest in the country. It runs on the Weiser Railroad from an 1800s train depot. During the ride, you learn about the history of railroading in the area. Afterward, you can explore the working late 19th-century roundhouse. This area of the museum complex features other modes of transport as well — Model T and horse-drawn carriage rides.

For a couple of weekends, Thomas the Tank Engine visits the Weiser Railroad. Along with riding the special character train, the all-day celebration includes meeting Sir Topham Hatt, magic shows, live music, storytelling, and more.

Southern Michigan Railroad

Managed by the Southern Michigan Railroad Society, the Southern Michigan Railroad is a line that stretches for 13.5 miles. This Jackson Branch began in Palmyra in 1836 and was expanded to Tecumseh in 1837 and again to Clinton in 1853. What makes it different from the other railroads is that it’s completely owned by the organization and only used to preserve the line’s history. This makes it a living museum that operates historic train rides in Michigan .

While you learn about the historic railroad, the trains take you on a scenic journey through forests, countrysides, and small towns. During the year, the organization offers various themes. The 2-hour Spring Wildflower Trains run between Clinton and Tecumseh, giving you layover options to explore. The Summer Tours run from Clinton to Tecumseh, and the Fall Colors Tours in October run from Tecumseh to Clinton. In December, Santa Tours are available. You have the chance to attend popular events in the towns during some of these train rides.

The Old Road Dinner Train

For a Michigan train tour with dinner, hop aboard The Old Road Dinner Train operated by the Adrian & Blissfield Rail Road Company. The trains operate from Blissfield and Charlotte.

The Blissfield Train runs on part of the original Erie & Kalamazoo Railroad through rich farmland in Southeastern Michigan that is thought to have been the bottom of Lake Erie at one time. The ride takes you to Lenawee Junction where more than 40 trains used to exchange passengers and goods every day. You can book three-course lunches or five-course dinners — both with an optional murder mystery. Weekday evening charters are also available.

The Charlotte Train runs on part of the Grand Valley Rail Road, which was built in 1870 and connects Jackson and Grand Rapids. During the leisure, 2-hour round trip, you pass through historic Charlotte and some countryside to the east. On the other hand, you can book a five-course dinner with or without a murder mystery.

Along with fine dining, the Murder Mystery Trains feature a humorous tableside mystery with an acting troupe. The group rotates the shows during the year and selects some of the riders to participate. The murder mystery and dinner take about 3 hours.

Moreover, the Adrian & Blissfield Rail Road Company offers several specialty train rides in December. You can have lunch with Santa, experience the Santa Express, or solve the New Year’s Eve murder mystery. In any case, you can expect a spectacular show and delicious food.

Alternative — A Southern Michigan Train Tour on Amtrak

For the most part, the above train rides in Michigan only allow you to explore a town or two. Did you know that Amtrak makes it easy to visit multiple cities in Southern Michigan ? The center of the company’s cross-country rail system is in Chicago, and the trains make frequent daily trips to key cities in Michigan — Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, East Lansing , Battle Creek, Jackson, Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Port Huron.

In fact, there are 22 depots from which you can start a Michigan train tour on Amtrak. It’s possible to plan an entire vacation out of riding the rails. Although you don’t get a history lesson with your ride, you can look out the window for a scenic view of the state’s beautiful landscape.

Have you experienced any of these Michigan train rides? Do you have a scenic train ride on your bucket list?

11 Best Train Rides in Michigan Story

A lover of all things Michigan. Will never get tired of exploring the unique places across the state and meeting all the awesome inspiring people that are here. Always ready for a new Michigan adventure! Owner, Director, and Chief Explorer!

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• Springdale to Van Buren
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Our Train Rides

A&m railroad offers 4 different excursions during the year:, (click on each to learn more).

Springdale to Van Buren (Round Trip)

Van Buren to Winslow (Round Trip)

Springdale to Winslow (Round Trip)

Holiday Express / Pajama Train (December, Round Trip)

The A&M offers round trip scenic tours through the Ozark Boston Mountains. Burrow through the quarter mile Winslow Tunnel and travel high trestles over 125 feet from the ground. The excursion train operates on a working railroad. Schedules and times are adhered to as closely as possible. Delays may be encountered.

To Report Railroad Emergency Dispatch Office: 479-751-1281 | Chief of Police Ron Sparks: 479-790-5152

Tuckasegee River Excursion

• Train Schedule
• Steam Powered
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Nantahala Gorge Excursion

• Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
• Boxed Lunches
• Raft & Rail
• Rail & Trail
• Tarzan Train
• KidZip Train
• Serene Relaxation At Stonebrook Lodge
• Private Caboose Party
• THE POLAR EXPRESS™
• Smoky Mountain Beer Run
• Bunny Hopper Express
• Map & Directions
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Model Train Museum
• 722 Rebuild Blog
• Southern Highlands Attractions
• Health & Safety Tips
• Andrews Valley Rail Tour
• Weather and Road Closures

Welcome to Your Next Greatest Adventure

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad historic train depot sits in the heart of Bryson City, North Carolina, and is a favorite regional attraction for family fun. A round-trip on the train is an ideal way to see extraordinary places that you can’t get to by car. Get a front-row view of Fontana Lake, the historic Fontana Trestle, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, the Nantahala and Tuckasegee Rivers, historical structures, and stunning foliage.

Choose from steam-powered with the official “Steam of the Smokies” or climb onboard an excursion powered by diesel locomotives. A variety of passenger round-trip train options and special event trains — including THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride — makes this the perfect attraction for making memories and experiencing the true form of railroading.

Climb aboard for your next unforgettable adventure today.

Make Plans for 2024!

Regardless of the season, you can expect a truly exceptional experience when you climb aboard one of our historic trains. Our excursions run year round offering our guests with incredible access to this beautiful, yet remote region of North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Purchase your trip in advance to secure the best seats and dates!

So Much To See & Do

When you come to ride the train, we hope you’ll plan to stay awhile. You’ll enjoy the country inns, lodges, resorts, quaint shops, places to dine, historic sites, museums, and amenities. This is America as it used to be; a treasury of friendly people, a restful environment, and the beauty of nature everywhere. There’s a reason why Bryson City is one of the top family-friendly destinations in North Carolina!

Scenic Train Rides & Special Excursions

Take a train ride alongside the beautiful Nantahala River on our Nantahala Gorge Excursion! Departing from Bryson City, this 4½-hour roundtrip excursion carries you 44 miles to the Nantahala Gorge.

Join us for a relaxing ride through the quiet countryside on your way to small-town life in western North Carolina on the Tuckasegee River Excursion.

Special Events

Check out the upcoming special events such as The Carolina Moonshine Experience. We will be proudly serving hand-crafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine.

Group Sales: 800-872-4681 Option 3

Reservations line: 800-872-4681 option 1.

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Rail Explorers

Take a tour with Rail Explorers and experience the magic of the railroad like never before! Ride the rails on our pedal-powered 'Rail Explorers' - a unique activity suitable for everyone.

Currently operating in 6 spectacular locations across the US - where do you want to rail explore today?

The breathtaking Amador Central Railroad traces the contours of rolling hills revealing panoramic views from the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains all the way to the Coastal Ranges. Just 45 minutes south of Sacramento, surrounded by gold rush towns steeped in history, wineries, and warmed by the northern California sun. This is Gold Country - the Heart of the Mother Lode.

Cooperstown, NY

Cooperstown, featuring the world famous Baseball Hall of Fame is also home to the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad. Ride "The Home Run" - a 12 mile round trip through the farm lands and forests alongside of the Susquehanna River. Or choose the 'Southpaw Slider' an 8 mile round trip to the Forest Glen Turnaround and back again.

Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Division operates along the Old Colony Railroad, built in 1862. The rails meander alongside spectacular Narragansett Bay offering riders unique views that include Jamestown, the Mount Hope Bridge, Hog Island Lighthouse, and coastal woodlands. Riders on the Southern Circuit are invited to bring a picnic to enjoy at Bayside Station during the 20 minute turnaround.

The Catskills, NY

Experience the magic of the Ulster & Delaware Railroad as you travel alongside the Esopus Creek through the beautiful woods of the Catskill Mountains. Under a canopy of maple and birch, with the river rushing by and the mountains in the distance, this tour is an unforgettable experience. Bring a drink and a snack to enjoy at the turnaround.

Bluegrass, KY

Rail Explorers is in the horse capital of the world (& we are in the heart of Bourbon country too!) Just 15 minutes from Lexington, Rail Explorers operate with the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad & Museum in Versailles, KY. On this 10 mile round trip ride you’ll travel through thoroughbred horse farms & deep limestone cuts to the turnaround on the cliffs above the Kentucky River. Enjoy the view of the Wild Turkey Distillery and Young's High Bridge built in 1889.

Rail Explorers have partnered with the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad to bring the first Rail Explorers Experience to the Midwest. Riders can enjoy beautiful views of the Des Moines River Valley, where is it is not uncommon to see a convocation of bald eagles along the riverbank. The ride’s showstopper is the 750’ long, 156’ high “Bass Point Creek High Trestle”. Riders crossing this bridge have panoramic views of the valley and experience the thrill of soaring high above the creek below.

Rail Explorers Gift Cards

Give the gift of an unforgettable experience with Rail Explorers. Choose a gift card which can be redeemed for either a Tandem Explorer (2 riders) or Quad Explorer (4 riders) at any Rail Explorers location.

Browse gift cards

Family activity and access for everyone

The Rail Explorers are easy to pedal, the terrain is mostly flat and the ride is relaxing and enjoyable. Everyone can enjoy this activity: couples young and old, groups of friends, and families of all ages and abilities. The pedal powered Explorers provide a smooth and comfortable adventure suitable for all.

Guided but Solitary

At Rail Explorers safety is our first priority, so all tours have a trained guide at the front and in the last Explorer. Tours depart on a set schedule, but all riders are spread out, with up to 500ft between you and those in front and behind. The front and rear guides ensure that everyone arrives safely, but the distance between the bikes allows everyone to go at their own pace and enjoy the magic of riding the rails in solitude.

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