The Texas State Railroad isn’t just scenic ride or a mode of transportation, it’s a living museum on rails that chronicles a significant era of the Lone Star State’s past. In this post I’ll be explaining what to expect from your trip here.
To start this scenic train ride connects the towns of Palestine and Rusk in East Texas and plays a crucial role in preserving the heritage of American railroading. This train narrates a story of ingenuity and progress, entwined with the development of Texas itself.
Basic info:
- Name: Texas State Railroad
- Location: Rusk Texas
- Ticket prices: $50+ per person (but there’s more details below)
- Duration: 4 hours
- Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars from most Google reviews
Ticket pricing details:
There are different classes and prices for individual/group rides along the Texas Scenic Railroad. Here is a breakdown of most of them:
- Caboose car: $850 flat rate for up to 8 people
- Presidential Car 1511: $87 per adult
- Presidential Car 42 couches: $77 per adult, $57 per child
- Presidential Car 42 with table and chairs: $72 per adult, $52 per child
- Dome car: $77 per adult, $57 per child
- First Class car: $57 per adult, $37 per child
- Open Air car: $27 per adult, $22 per child
Children are anyone between 2-12. Infants can ride along with their parents, but there are extra fees for this too. You can find out about group rates, special events and possible discounts on the official site.
Scenic sights along the way:
First, let’s talk about duration. The round-trip journey typically lasts about 4 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the stunning landscapes and historical sites.
As the train chuffs along the tracks, you’ll witness a diverse tapestry of East Texas scenery. From the comfort of your car, watch for impressive pine forests that seem to stand as sentinels of time and the gentle roll of hills that undulate across the region.
You’re going to find out about landmarks like the Neches River, where the train crosses a historic truss bridge. This enchanting moment offers a glimpse into nature’s tranquility, so don’t forget your camera!
On special themed rides, which can include fall foliage tours to autumnal splendor or the magical Polar Express during the holiday season, the sights take on a whole new character, amplified by the joy and excitement that those themes bring.
And remember, this isn’t just about what you see, it’s also about what you might stumble upon. East Texas is home to a variety of wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of deer, wild turkeys, or even a rare bald eagle mid-flight.
Choosing the right time to go:
Each season offers its unique charm so there’s honestly no wrong answer here. To give you more perspective, each season offers awesome variety. From the vibrant wildflowers of spring, to the lush greenery of summer, to the fiery foliage of fall, and the serene stillness of winter all carry their own benefits.
Now, if you want to catch the spectacular sight of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes coloring the hillsides, I suggest planning your trip in late March to April but other than this any month along this ride works.
In my opinion, for those interested in something extra special, keep an eye out for the railroad’s themed events. From magical Polar Express rides that bring the holiday spirit to life in November and December to spooky Halloween excursions in October, there’s an adventure suitable for everyone. And let’s not overlook the fall foliage tours in November; they’re a photographer’s dream, showcasing a stunning canvas of autumnal hues.
Don’t worry too much about the weather. Even on warmer days, the vintage train cars are well ventilated, and many offer air conditioning, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey. As a helpful tip, always check the forecast and dress accordingly, so your experience is pleasant, no matter the time of year. The good news is that year round, the weather in Texas is usually sunny and warm (or very hot) so you really can’t go wrong with whichever season you choose to take a ride here.
Choose something reflects your personal interests or one that makes a special date on your calendar even more memorable. From Valentine’s specials to July 4th themed rides, the Texas State Railroad has put thought into making each journey a standout occasion. So please, don’t hesitate to get in touch with them directly or check their website for the most current calendar of events and themed rides.
Overall this is one of the best scenic train rides in Texas (even though there’s not that many of them in the state), but it’s an awesome experience to check out for couples, families or large groups (8 people in this case) and I strongly recommend doing it if you get the chance!