Ride the Rails with These 5 Train Experiences

All Aboard for these five sites that offer rides with scenic views, a glimpse of history and much more. 




The clacking, squeaking wheels on a metal track and the sound of a compressed air whistle offer a sense of nostalgia for most, and in South Elgin, Illinois, these auditory cues are commonplace. The Fox River Trolley Museum showcases antique train cars and offers narrated train rides that share the history and stories of the railway. But, Fox River Trolley Museum is just one way to ride the rails. Check out five great train ride experiences this season, including a journey through the West Virginia mountains and a scenic ride through Ohio's only national park.

Strasburg Rail Road

Strasburg Rail Road in Strasburg, Pennsylvania (photo courtesy of destination)

As the nation’s oldest continuously operating railroad, this Strasburg, Pennsylvania, destination offers excursions in restored Victorian- and Edwardian-style coaches. 

Arcade & Attica Railroad

Arcade & Attica Railroad in Arcade, New York (photo courtesy of destination)

Train enthusiasts of all ages visit this station in Arcade, New York, to take a ride on the historic rail line it serves. 

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (photo by Michelle Peters)

This Peninsula, Ohio, excursion train travels through the heart of the 33,000-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Mountain Rail Adventures

A Mountain Rail Adventures train excursion through West Virginia (courtesy of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad)

Mountain Rail Adventures offers train excursions from depots in Cass, Durbin and Elkins, West Virginia

Fox River Trolley Museum

People standing on train platform next to red trolley car at Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin, Illinois (photo courtesy of Fox River Trolley Museum)

Go for train rides and explore a collection of antique rail cars at this South Elgin, Illinois, museum. 

Story: Gracie Metz
Issue: Weekend Guides