travel texas by train

Texas Travel Talk

Let's Talk Texas Travel!

Adventure & travel are all about forging ahead, trying something new. Let’s Texas!

Everything Texas Family Travel Outdoor Activities Recent

Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas

Book a seat on these scenic train rides in Texas through open spaces.

There is something special about scenic train rides. You never know what you’ll see as the train takes the same route on every trip. I always gaze out the window to look for wildlife. Even though I may be on a train to see something totally different, like dogwood blooms, I have my eye on possible glimpses of any type of wild animal.

So, are you ready for a road trip to take a scenic train ride through Lone Star State? History buffs, train lovers, and the whole family will love these family-friendly excursions aboard one of Texas’s top scenic train rides.

Photo: Pixabay

5 Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas

When I visited a winery in Burnet (TX Hill Country), the lady behind the counter pouring our wine told us about a train ride excursion that comes through Burnet and offers wine tasting and more. It then dawned on me that many of you and the other four I know of would probably want to hear about it, too.

You’ll find many special events on these major train rides throughout Texas all year round. Enjoy these fantastic train rides through Texas, and book a seat!

Texas State Railroad – East Texas

The Texas State Railroad , built by inmates long ago, is a heritage railroad between Rusk and Palestine, TX. A vintage steam locomotive that takes passengers on a 4-hour round-trip train ride through the Piney Woods of East Texas. And when the dogwoods are out, it makes for a lovely scenic ride. There is an hour layover at the Rusk Depot, where each passenger will get a box lunch to enjoy outside on the depot grounds.

My mom and I got tickets for the Dogwood Lunch Train Excursion and enjoyed the view, talking with other passengers, and feeling the breeze outside the caboose.

Palestine has many attractions to boast about and is also a fabulous town for a mother-daughter trip .

Did you know…

The Texas State Railroad is the Official Railroad of Texas.

Special Events on the Texas State Railroad:

Dogwood Lunch Train
Easter Lunch Train
Wine In The Pines
Speakeasy Special

Grapevine, TX Food Hall Train Photo

Grapevine Vintage Railroad – North Texas

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad is an excursion and special event railroad in Grapevine, Texas that runs from the Main Street station in Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards.

I took this Cotton Belt Excursion a long time ago and enjoyed it. I’d love to do it again. Two of my favorite places to roam—are Grapevine and the Stockyards! You’ll love the Victorian coaches.

Train Excursions:

Cotton Belt Excursion (Grapevine/Fort Worth Stockyards)
Trinity River Train Excursion – (Historic Stockyard Station/Fort Worth’s Trinity Park)
Grapevine Bear Creek – Grapevine Cotton Belt and back) great for families with toddlers.

Special Events on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad:

North Pole Express – Grapevine’s Christmas train.
Day Out With Thomas
Sweetheart Wine Train
Grapevine’s Christmas Wine Train Tour

Historic Jefferson Railway – East Texas

Historic Jefferson Railway is a 3-foot narrow gauge railroad that takes passengers on its diesel engine locomotive on a 3-mile (40-minute) narrated train ride through the scenic Big Cypress Bayou with a stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit to see the feeding of the live alligators. Be sure to look for the Boggy Creek Monster! Open Thursdays & Saturdays. Pets welcome.

Special Events on the Historic Jefferson Railway:

Halloween Express Haunted Train Ride
“Rail of Lights” Christmas Express Steam Tour (evenings in December)

The Bertram Flyer. Photo from Facebook

Austin Steam Train Association – Central Texas

From first-class coach to excursion coach to first-class lounge to adult-only first-class ding cars and wheelchair-accessible cars, the Austin Steam Train Association has you covered. I can only imagine how much fun this ride would be, and to see the Texas Hill Country in a whole new way is thrilling. I just learned about it, and now I’m booking a seat! It promises to be the Texas train ride of your life!

There are three depots: Cedar Park Depot, Bertrem Depot, and Burnet Depot. All depots are located in the northern hill country area.

Some excursions will go to the Canyon Of The Eagles overlooking Lake Buchannan. Burnet & Cedar Park have dining and lodging available. And you can buy a ticket for a locomotive cab ride, but be prepared to fork out $500-$700.

Pro Tip: Check out the Buckeye Trail and Eagle Cliff cars for wheelchair-accessible.

Special Event on the Austin Steam Train:

Take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a train ride through the hill country on the Bertram Flyer!
Explore vintage train cars on the Hill Country Flyer while you wind through the Texas Hill Country, crossing the South San Gabriel River bridge and Short Creek Canyon.
Saint Paddy’s Express – March 19, 2023
Wedding Oak Wine Train (the one the lady behind the counter told me about) It’s March 26, 2023.

Texas Eagle Train Amtrak

Chicago – St. Louis – Dallas – San Antonio – Los Angeles, and everywhere in between in Texas – departs daily.

Amtrak’s Texas Eagle will take you deep into the heart of Texas, traveling between Chicago and San Antonio through Austin and Dallas. Continue your trip between San Antonio and Los Angeles via Sunset Limited. Wind through the Land of Lincoln, across the Mississippi River, and through the Ozarks to Little Rock and the piney woods of East Texas. Then back through Dallas, Austin, and ended in San Antonio. I don’t know if I got that right, but it’s a long train ride for sure!

WOW – what a way to see the world. I took my son on an Amtrak train from Fort Worth to California when he was 7 (1987). We went for the experience, and I’ll never forget sleeping where we sat. Never did that again. If ever I take the Texas Eagle, I will get a room with a bed!

What is the longest train ride in Texas? Texas Eagle
Famous Texas Train – Texas Eagle

Make one of these scenic train rides in Texas your next trip!

Texas Train Museums

Texas Transportation Museum – San Antonio. Unlimited 15-minute rides are included with admission to the museum.
Austin Steam Train Association Museum is in Cedar Park, TX (link is above)
Railroad Heritage Center – Palestine, TX

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

More From Our Authors

Ideas For Thanksgiving Week In Texas

Here are a few ideas for Thanksgiving week in Texas with family. Texas Travel Talk

Quaint Texas Hill Country Stays Where You Can Relax

You need to know about these quaint Texas Hill Country stays where you can relax

Top Things To Do In Dallas In One Day

If your time in the city is short, we suggest choosing a few things to do in Dallas

Texas Waterparks Open For The Season

It's summertime & these Texas Waterparks are open for the season! School is

22+ Fun Things to Do in New Braunfels

It's all about the memories and the fun things to do in New Braunfels for

Top Attractions In The Texas Panhandle

Fort Worth Travel Guide

Top Things To Do In Port Aransas

(7) Girlfriend Weekend Trip In Texas

Discover Lakefront Cabins for Rent in Texas

Terms & Conditions

Kim Croisant, Owner, DFW, TX. Contact me at [email protected] .

Amtrak Texas Eagle: 12 Things You Need To Know Before Riding

The Amtrak Texas Eagle is the longest train ride in the USA at 2,278 Miles. We’ve compiled a list of things you’ll need to know before you ride.

1 Traditional dining on the Texas Eagle
2 Does the Texas Eagle have sleeping cars
3 What is the difference Between Texas Eagle 421 and Texas Eagle 21
4 Does the Texas Eagle run on time
5 Does the Texas Eagle have an observation car
6 Does the Texas Eagle have WiFi
7 How fast does the Texas Eagle go
8 Texas Eagle vs. Southwest Chief: which is better
9 Is the Texas Eagle Scenic
10 What is the Texas Eagle schedule
11 How much does the Texas Eagle cost
12 What Amtrak stations does the Texas Eagle go to

Traditional dining on the Texas Eagle

Traditional dining only covers half of the Texas Eagle route, with the other half being flexible dining . West of San Antonio you’ll get the better traditional dining option. When you are east of San Antonio you’ll have flexible dining. Both dining options are included in the ticket price for sleeper car passengers and unavailable to passengers in coach class. All passengers can use the cafe for meals.

Does the Texas Eagle have sleeping cars

The Texas Eagle is a Superliner train and has Superliner sleeping cars. In these cars you’ll have a choice of roomette , bedroom , family bedroom and accessible bedroom accommodations. Roomettes are on the upper and lower levels while bedrooms are all on the upper level. Family Bedroom and Accessible Bedrooms are all on the lower level.

What is the difference Between Texas Eagle 421 and Texas Eagle 21

The Texas Eagle 421 goes all the way to Los Angeles and the Texas Eagle 21 stops in San Antonio when Texas Eagle joins with the Sunset Limited . If you are getting off before San Antonio, there is no difference between the Texas Eagle 421 and the Texas Eagle 21.

Does the Texas Eagle run on time

The Texas Eagle is not usually on time. Long distance Amtrak trains including the Texas Eagle are often late due to heat restrictions, freight traffic and mechanical issues. You should not book tight connections when riding the Texas Eagle as there is a good chance your train will be late.

Does the Texas Eagle have an observation car

The Texas Eagle does have an observation car. The observation car is available to all passengers regardless of which ticket they have. The observation car is open 24 hours a day. There are chairs that face outwards and extra power outlets to charge your electronics in the observation car. On the eastern part of the route, the observation car can be left off, so it is only guaranteed on the western part of the route past San Antonio.

Does the Texas Eagle have WiFi

The Amtrak Texas Eagle does not have WiFi. While many Amtrak trains have WiFi connections on board, the Texas Eagle as well as most of the cross country train routes do not as there are many areas where they would lose service. In some parts of the route you will not have cell service either.

How fast does the Texas Eagle go

The Texas Eagle has a top speed on 79mph. The train will not be usually going that fast and the average speed will be much lower. The train will slow down considerably when going through any city or populated areas.

Texas Eagle vs. Southwest Chief: which is better

The Texas Eagle and Southwest Chief both begin and end in Los Angeles and Chicago. They take different routes to get there. The Texas Eagle drops down into Texas and travels along the US border while the Southwest Chief follows the old Route 66 path. The Southwest Chief is better than the Texas Eagle as it is shorter, more scenic and cheaper.

Is the Texas Eagle Scenic

The Texas Eagle is not considered one of the most scenic Amtrak routes. Going from Chicago to Los Angeles, the Southwest Chief has the same beginning and ending stations and is more scenic than the Texas Eagle. Neither are among the top 3 scenic Amtrak routes in the USA, which are the California Zephyr, Empire Builder and the Coast Starlight.

Some of our favorite views on the Texas Eagle are coming into the city of St. Louis, where you can see the Gateway Arch from the west side of the train.

What is the Texas Eagle schedule

The Texas Eagle leaves Chicago at 1:45pm and arrives in Los Angeles at 5:35am 3 days later. Going from west to east the Texas Eagle leaves Los Angeles at 10:00pm and arrives in Chicago at 1:44pm 3 days later.

How much does the Texas Eagle cost

The base price of a coach class ticket on the Texas Eagle is $146 and the base price of a sleeper car is $766. Sales and discounts can reduce the price of the tickets.

What Amtrak stations does the Texas Eagle go to

Chicago, IL – Union Station (CHI)
Joliet, IL (JOL)
Pontiac, IL (PON)
Bloomington-Normal, IL (BNL)
Lincoln, IL (LCN)
Springfield, IL (SPI)
Carlinville, IL (CRV)
Alton, IL (ALN)
St. Louis, MO – Gateway Station (STL)
Arcadia, MO (ACD)
Poplar Bluff, MO (PBF)
Walnut Ridge, AR (WNR)
Little Rock, AR – Union Station (LRK)
Malvern, AR (MVN)
Arkadelphia, AR (ARK)
Hope, AR (HOP)
Texarkana, AR (TXA)
Marshall, TX (MHL)
Longview, TX (LVW)
Mineola, TX (MIN)
Dallas, TX – Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station (DAL)
Fort Worth, TX (FTW)
Cleburne, TX (CBR)
McGregor, TX (MCG)
Temple, TX (TPL)
Taylor, TX (TAY)
Austin, TX (AUS)
San Marcos, TX (SMC)
San Antonio, TX (SAS)
Del Rio, TX (DRT)
Sanderson, TX (SND)
Alpine, TX (ALP)
El Paso, TX – Union Depot (ELP)
Deming, NM (DEM)
Lordsburg, NM (LDB)
Benson, AZ (BEN)
Tucson, AZ (TUS)
Maricopa, AZ (MRC)
Yuma, AZ (YUM)
Palm Springs, CA – Amtrak Station (PSN)
Ontario, CA (ONA)
Pomona, CA (POS)
Los Angeles, CA – Union Station (LAX)

Robert Marmion

Everything We Use In Our Travels

Amtrak Vacation Itinerary: 12 Day United States Grand Loop Tour

Best Amtrak Trips From Baltimore

Best Amtrak Trips From Miami

Best Amtrak Trips From San Antonio

Best Amtrak Trips From Dallas

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Sweepstakes
Bus and Train Travel

7 Best Train Rides in Texas — Vintage Cars and Scenic Views Included

See the Lone Star State in a whole new way.

Courtesy of Travel Texas

Train travel is all the rage in 2023. Just ask Pinterest, which predicts it to be one of the hottest travel trends of the year in its annual Pinterest Predicts report. As the company notes, “In 2023, train travel will make a major comeback. Thanks to quicker boarding, extra legroom, scenic views , and a lower carbon footprint, Gen Z and millennials will find a renewed love for this timeless mode of transportation. Searches for Europe interrailing, train quotes, and train travel aesthetic are all trending way up.” But don’t let Europe have all the fun. Sure, our European counterparts have well-known rail lines that get a lot of love, but there are plenty of tracks in the U.S. that are worth your attention, too. And Texas happens to be home to more than its fair share. Read on for seven fantastic train rides in Texas — both big and small — that you can join on your next trip to the Lone Star State.

Forest Park Miniature Railroad

Courtesy of Visit Fort Worth

One of the smallest options on this list, the Forest Park Miniature Railroad dates back to the 1950s and takes visitors on a quick, five-mile journey through Fort Worth’s Trinity Park, crossing over six bridges along the way. The family-friendly ride clocks in at just over 40 minutes, making it short but sweet. It’s open for rides year-round, but its schedule varies, depending on weather, so check in with the conductors before booking a ticket.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

VisionsbyAtlee/Getty Images

The classic Grapevine Vintage Railroad operates 1920s Victorian coaches that whisk passengers away for a ride along the Cotton Belt Route. On board, guests can lounge in plush, red velvet seating with gilded armrests while looking out at beautiful landscapes from the massive picture windows. It’s even available for special events for the ultimate train lover’s private party. Note the train is open for rides from March to December, closing each January and February for regular maintenance.

Zilker Eagle

RoschetzkyIstockPhoto/Getty Images

Looking for a more modern mini train experience? Snag a ticket aboard the Zilker Eagle . Though it's 60 years old, the Zilker Eagle looks like a thoroughly futuristic — albeit miniature — bullet train. It zips through Zilker Park and is also a true community effort. According to the park’s website, the train's name was chosen from more than 700 submissions and voted on by more than 7,000 members of the Austin community. Plus, it’s fully electric and comes with several ADA accessible coaches, making it available to all.

Heartland Flyer

Courtesy of Amtrak

Those wanting a longer ride can hop on Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer , which travels between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas, every day. The train only makes two stops in Texas (Gainesville and Fort Worth), but that’s what makes it such a great ride — it’s a straight shot between the two cities with plenty of views in between. And as Amtrak notes, once riders disembark in Fort Worth, they can connect to Dallas and San Antonio via the Texas Eagle to keep the good times going.

Texas State Railroad

History buffs will appreciate their ride on the Texas State Railroad , which takes place in a refurbished vintage train car that meanders through the landscape between Palestine and Rusk. The four-hour round-trip journey invites passengers to unplug and live the slow life for a while. On board, guests can choose between cars (including renting out the caboose for private parties) or sit on the glass-domed observation deck with a glass of Champagne in hand while watching the world go by.

Historic Jefferson Railway

Martina Birnbaum/Getty Images

Mix in a little more whimsy and history with a ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway . The rail, first built in 1910, is a gas-powered Plymouth Locomotive that brings guests on a trip through Jefferson, including along the Big Cypress Bayou. And as the train’s website explains, guests should keep an eye out for the “Boggy Creek monster” featured in the film titled “Boggy Creek.”

Austin Steam Train

Courtesy of Austin Steam Train

The Austin Steam Train offers several unique rides on its HZRX Diesel 3134 locomotive. It has four service classes along most of its routes, including excursion coach, first-class coach, first-class lounge, and an adults-only first-class lounge. The best option is its signature ride, the Hill Country Flyer, which weaves through Texas Hill Country and allows for a two-hour layover in Burnet for guests to get out, shop, eat, and explore.

The 7 Best Train Rides in Texas — Vintage Cars and Scenic Views Included

Train rides in Texas offer a unique and scenic way to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the Lone Star State. From the rolling plains and rugged canyons to the bustling metropolises, Texas’ train routes provide an opportunity to experience the state’s rich history and natural beauty in a relaxing and nostalgic manner.

These journeys hark back to an era when rail travel was the pinnacle of transportation, combining modern comforts with the charm of the past.

Passengers on Texas train rides can expect to traverse through iconic cities like Dallas and Houston, as well as historic small towns and picturesque countryside.

Special themed rides, like vintage steam train excursions or holiday-themed journeys, add an extra layer of excitement for travelers of all ages.

Whether seeking a leisurely day trip or a more extended rail adventure, train rides in Texas cater to a variety of interests and provide a memorable way to see the heart of the American Southwest.

Best Train Rides in Texas

Texas state railroad.

The Texas State Railroad offers a unique and picturesque journey through East Texas. This heritage railroad, established by inmates a long time ago, provides a 4-hour round-trip excursion between the towns of Rusk and Palestine.

The route is especially scenic during the fall when the leaves in the Piney Woods turn into vibrant shades of gold, orange, yellow, and red, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the journey.

The train ride includes a 1.5-hour journey to the destination depot, a one-hour lunch break, and a 1.5-hour return trip, allowing ample time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Moreover, it offers a complete experience with facilities like the Rusk Mail Car Café, the Roundhouse 1909 in Palestine for shopping, and even camping facilities at the Rusk Campground.

The Rusk end of the journey is particularly adventurous with a vintage movie theater and a campground that includes real locomotives, extending the enjoyment beyond the train ride itself.

Zilker Eagle

The Zilker Eagle in Austin, Texas, is a delightful miniature train that carries on a tradition spanning over 60 years. Replacing the former Zilker Zephyr, the Zilker Eagle was brought back to life after a period of closure due to track damage caused by storms.

This charming ride, which winds through the scenic Zilker Park, offers passengers picturesque views of green spaces, Barton Creek, Lady Bird Lake, and the Austin skyline.

The train, initially named the Zilker Eagle before being renamed to Zilker Zephyr in 1997, returned to its original name following a citywide contest.

Operated by the Austin Parks Foundation, the Zilker Eagle’s profits are reinvested into the park, ensuring that this beloved Austin icon continues to create memories for future generations.

Forest Park Miniature Railroad

The Forest Park Miniature Railroad, a beloved Fort Worth tradition since the 1950s, offers a unique five-mile round-trip train ride. This scenic journey takes passengers through Fort Worth’s Trinity Park and the TCU/Zoo area, making it a perfect outing for families and train enthusiasts.

Recently refurbished, the railroad reopened in September 2023 under new ownership after a temporary closure due to mechanical issues and health concerns of the previous operator.

The train, characterized by its small green and yellow locomotive, is not only a fond memory for many locals but also a symbol of Fort Worth’s history and community spirit.

The new owners have updated the trains and the depot, including self-service ticket kiosks, enhancing the experience while preserving the railroad’s historic charm.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad, nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Grapevine, Texas, offers a unique journey back in time. Passengers are transported on authentic 1920s-era coaches along the historic Cotton Belt Route, providing a blend of historical charm with the comfort of modern amenities.

Operating for most of the year, except for a brief pause in January and early February, the railroad offers a variety of excursions that cater to all ages.

Popular events include the North Pole Express, which is part of the Christmas festivities in Grapevine, and themed rides like the Day Out with Thomas, Jazz Wine Train, and the Halloween-themed Witches Brew Train.

The train, pulled by vintage locomotives including the 1953 GP-7 diesel locomotive named “Vinny”, offers a scenic 21-mile route to the Fort Worth Stockyards, contributing to Grapevine’s reputation as a go-to destination for family-friendly historical experiences.

Heartland Flyer

The Heartland Flyer is an Amtrak train service that provides a vital link between Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Fort Worth, Texas. This route offers passengers a comfortable and scenic journey through the heartland of America, showcasing the unique landscapes and communities of the region.

The train is known for its reliable service and convenience, making it a popular choice for both daily commuters and tourists seeking a leisurely travel experience. The Heartland Flyer is an Amtrak service that runs between Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Fort Worth, Texas.

This route provides passengers with a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these two cities, offering scenic views of the countryside. The Heartland Flyer is known for its reliable service and is a popular choice for both commuters and tourists.

Historic Jefferson Railway

The Historic Jefferson Railway in Jefferson, Texas, is a notable narrow gauge railroad that follows the Big Cypress Bayou for about three miles. This line, operating since 1985, offers a picturesque journey through the dense piney woods of northeast Texas.

Along the route, passengers can observe various historical sites, including the location of Texas’s first artificial gas plant, remnants of a sawmill, a blast furnace, and a Confederate powder magazine listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The trip, which takes approximately 45 minutes, provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and natural beauty of the area. The railway, previously featuring a steam locomotive, currently operates a small gasoline-powered locomotive named “Critter.”

Austin Steam Train

The Austin Steam Train Association offers a nostalgic rail experience through the Texas Hill Country, combining history and scenic beauty. Operating from Cedar Park, this excursion railroad provides several themed rides, with the Hill Country Flyer being a notable highlight.

This excursion weaves through picturesque landscapes, including views of the South San Gabriel River and Short Creek Canyon. During a two-hour layover in the charming town of Burnet, passengers can explore the historic square, enjoy local dining, and witness Wild West-style gunfights.

The interiors of the train cars are restored to reflect the luxury of a bygone era, ensuring a comfortable journey as passengers soak in the stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Final Thoughts

The train rides in Texas offer a diverse and enchanting journey through the state’s rich history and scenic beauty. Each journey is a unique experience, blending the romance of steam-era railroading with modern comforts.

The train rides take passengers on unforgettable trips through picturesque landscapes and historic towns. These rides are not just trips; they are moving experiences that connect the past with the present, offering a window into the heart of Texas

Texas By Train

Want to go somewhere in Texas by train?

Traveling by train is an excellent alternative to driving or flying. Here are some great ways to both see Texas and travel to other parts of the country by rail!

Texas Eagle

Daily service originating in Chicago & San Antonio. Tri-weekly service San Antonio to Los Angeles as the Texas Eagle connects with the Sunset Limited at the Alamo city three days a week. Daily Texas Eagle service includes to/from Bloomington/Normal, Ill; Springfield, Ill; St. Louis and Little Rock, AR.

Texas cities served include Texarkana, Marshall, Longview, Mineola, Dallas, Fort Worth, Cleburne, McGregor (Waco), Temple, Taylor, Austin, San Marcos, San Antonio.

Note: Amtrak no longer publishes printed timetables so download this timetable for your next trip!

More Info: TexasEagle.com
Time Tables: Download PDF

Heartland Flyer

Daily service Fort Worth to Oklahoma City. Cities served include Fort Worth, Gainesville, Ardmore, Pauls Valley, Purcell, Norman and Oklahoma City. Note: Amtrak no longer publishes printed timetables so download this timetable for your next trip!

Sunset Limited

Tri-weekly service originating in New Orleans & Los Angeles. Cities served include Beaumont, Houston, San Antonio, Del Rio, Sanderson, Alpine and El Paso. Note: Amtrak no longer publishes printed timetables so download this timetable for your next trip!

Texas Rail Maps

Freight rail.

https://railfanguides.us/system/awrr/index.htm
http://www.bnsf.com/customers/where-can-i-ship/maps/
http://www.fwwr.net/fwwr-system-map.php
http://www.kcsouthern.com/en-us/why-choose-kcs/network-map
http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/south_orient/map.pdf
ftp://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/railroad_map.pdf
https://www.up.com/aboutup/reference/maps/

Intercity Passenger Rail

http://texaseagle.com/
http://heartlandflyer.com/
http://www.amtrak.com

TXDOT / TTI Maps

http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/plan/maps/freight_density.pdf
http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/railroad_map.pdf
http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/rail/city_pairs_ranking.pdf

Urban / Regional Passenger Rail Maps

http://www.capmetro.org/schedmap/?svc=2
https://www.dart.org/maps/printrailmap.asp
https://www.dcta.net/service-overview/a-train-rail-service
https://www.ridemetro.org/Pages/Rail.aspx
http://www.trinityrailwayexpress.org/stations.html
https://ridetrinitymetro.org/texrail-schedule/

Cities / Towns Served

(Amtrak Interstate, Regional, Commuter and Light Rail Services)

Alpine – Austin – Beaumont – Carrollton – Cleburne – Dallas – Del Rio – Denton – El Paso – Farmers Branch – Fort Hood* – Fort Worth – Gainesville – Galveston* – Grapevine – Highland Village – Houston – Hurst – Irving – Leander – Lewisville – Longview – Marshall – McGregor (Waco) – Mineola – Nacogdoches* – North Richland Hills – Plano – Richardson – Richland Hills – San Antonio – Sanderson – San Marcos – Shreveport* – Taylor – Temple – Texarkana

*Connecting Amtrak Thruway Bus

Flatonia (for Victoria) – this city has requested an Amtrak stop but has not yet been approved

Urban, Regional and Corridor Rail Service

SunMetro – El Paso Streetcar
Houston METRORail – Houston proper
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) – Dallas and suburbs / DFW Airport
Trinity Railway Express – Dallas to Fort Worth
TEXRail – Fort Worth to DFW International Airport
Austin CapMetro MetroRail – Leander to Austin
A-Train Denton County – Denton to Carrollton

Where did trains take you in Texas in the past?

From November 1962 Official Railway Guide:

Santa Fe #15 & #16 : Galveston to Chicago serving Houston, Temple, Fort Worth, Dallas, White Rock, Krum, Denton, Gainesville
Santa Fe #12/77 & #11/78 : Chicago to San Angelo serving Gainesville, Fort Worth, Dallas, Brownwood, Coleman, Ballinger
Santa Fe #66/75 & 76/65 : San Francisco to Houston serving Lubbock, Slaton, Sweetwater, Brownwood, Goldthwaite, Lometa, Lampassas, Fort Worth, Dallas, Temple
Santa Fe (2 daily trains) #1/3 & #2/4 : Chicago to San Francisco serving Canadian, Miami, Pampa, Amarillo, Canyon, Hereford, Texico
Santa Fe #13 & 14 : Albuquerque to El Paso
Santa Fe #93 & #94 : Amarillo to Lubbock serving Canyon, Happy, Hale Center, Plainview
Southern Pacific #1 & 2 : Los Angeles to New Orleans serving Orange, Beaumont, Dayton, Houston, Sugar Land, Rosenberg, Schulenberg, Seguin, San Antonio, Uvalde, Del Rio, Sanderson, Alpine, Marfa, El Paso
Southern Pacific # 5 & #6 : From New Orleans to Houston serving Orange, Beaumont, Rome, Liberty, Dayton
Rock Island (2 daily trains) #21 / #23 & #22 / #26 : From Memphis to California serving Shamrock, McLean, Groom, Conway, Amarillo
Rock Island (2 daily trains) #15/#16 & # 17 / #18 : From Minneapolis to Houston serving Bowie, Bridgeport, Saginaw, Fort Worth, Dallas, Waxahachie, Corsicana, Teague
KATY (2 daily trains) #1 & #2 / #5 & #6 : Kansas City to San Antonio serving Denison, Whitewright, Greenville, Garland, Highland Park, Dallas, Waxahachie, Hillsboro, Waco, Temple, Georgetown, Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels
Kansas City Southern #1 / 2 & #15 / #16 : Kansas City to New Orleans serving Texarkana, Beaumont, Port Arthur
Missouri Pacific #1 & #2 : St Louis to Houston and Mexico City serving Texarkana, Longview, Kilgore, Troup, Jacksonville, Palestine, Hearne, Rockdale, Taylor, Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Devine, Dilley, Cotulla, Laredo, Trinity, Phelps, Conroe
Missouri Pacific #54 & 55 : Houston to Brownsville serving Angleton, Bay City, Blessing, Vanderbilt, Placedo, Bloomington, Sinton, Robstown, Kingsville, Raymondville, Harlingen, San Benito
Missouri Pacific (2 daily trains) #50-51 & #52-53 : New Orleans to Houston serving Beaumont, Grayburg
Texas & Pacific (3 daily trains Texarkana-Fort Worth, 2 daily trains Fort Worth-El Paso) #21-23 & #22-24, #25-27 & #26-28 : New Orleans to California serving Marshall, Longview, Gladewater, Big Sandy, Mineola, Wills Point, Terrell, Dallas, Fort Worth, Weatherford, Mineral Wells, Eastland, Cisco, Abilene, Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, Monahans, Pecos, Toyah, Van Horn, Sierra Blanca, El Paso

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

5 Epic Train Rides In Texas | For a Relaxed and Picturesque Journey

Destinations
Types of Travel
United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

I love to ride trains. My great-grandparents saw travel evolve from horse-drawn carriages to electric street cars, urban subways, and passenger trains.

Today, we seek fast travel by jet or a sleek car, but what about turning back the clock to railroad transit and passenger trains? There is something about the golden age of train travel that’s fun for all ages. It’s a time to slow down, relax, and let the landscape flow past us. Let’s explore train rides in Texas, great fun for the whole family. All aboard!

5 Epic Train Rides In Texas for an Amazing Experience

1. palestine to rusk, texas state railroad.

Step aboard a refurbished train car at the Texas State Railroad and feel like you have stepped back in time 100 years, where time slows down and tensions disappear. Relax and enjoy a 4-hour roundtrip train excursion from Palestine to Rusk and back, with vintage steam and diesel locomotives gliding through the piney woods of East Texas as the fall leaves begin to turn shades of golds, oranges, yellows, and reds.

At the depot, learn about the railroad communities, savor a bite to eat with family at the Rusk Mail Car Cafe, and shop the gifts and keepsakes at Roundhouse 1909 in Palestine. Ride comfortably, enjoy a historical narrative, meet friendly and entertaining staff, and sample food and adult beverages on your journey. The four-hour train ride breaks down to a 1.5-hour 25-mile trip to the destination depot, a one-hour lunchtime, and a 1.5-hour return trip.

In October, the Pumpkin Patch Express leaves from Rusk, a 30-minute round trip train ride, including hayrides, spooky music, a bounce house, concessions, and trick-or-treating on Trick or Treat Street. Each child picks out a pumpkin to take home for carving. Fall is a fabulous time to take a train trip through the U.S .

Make reservations now for the Polar Express for November and December. The Presidential Class car seating is limited where a ride with Santa, keepsake Polar Express mugs, hot chocolate, and cookies make for a magical experience.

Camping facilities at the Rusk Campground offer a stay onsite at a historic railroad, with access to depot amenities including lunch, gift shop, and movie theater access on train departure days. Movies filmed on the Texas State Railroad are featured, with stars like Denzel Washington, George Clooney, John Goodman, and Sam Elliot.

This was definitely one of my favorite U.S. train rides .

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Palestine To Rusk

2. Cedar Park To Burnet

Austin steam train association.

All aboard! Take the historic 6-hour, 66-mile roundtrip Hill Country Flyer from Cedar Park, north of Austin, and just east of Lake Travis, to Burnet with a brief layover there for lunch and shopping. There are at least four classes of service : excursion coach, first-class coach, first-class lounge, and adults-only first-class lounge.

The Bertram Flyer is a shorter trip, traveling from Cedar Park to Bertram, with a 15-minute layover in Bertram and enough time to tour the 1912 train depot there. The train runs from March through November on Saturdays and Sundays.

The North Pole Flyer 2021 with Santa leaves from Bertram and is a 2-hour roundtrip. Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before departure and be in your seat no later than 10 minutes before the train leaves. Read the Terms and Conditions about no refunds and restrictions.

Enjoy hot chocolate and the elf’s reading of the North Pole Flyer book.

Read about the vintage train cars here .

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Cedar Park To Burnet

3. Grapevine To Fort Worth Stockyards

The grapevine vintage railroad .

Travel from Main Street Station in Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad while relaxing in air-conditioned Victorian train cars.

See the schedule for special events like Murder Mystery Trains and reserved group events.

Wear your costume on the Witches Brew Train on October 29, 2021, which features hors d’oeuvres and local draft brew served in a souvenir mug. Take time to tour the Haunted Depot. Wear your Halloween costume on the Trick ‘R Treat Trains on October 30 and enjoy this 1-hour excursion.

Make your reservations now for the hour-long North Pole Express November through December, presented by Great Wolf Lodge and Trinity Metro TEXRail. Wear your Christmas pajamas while you take a Christmas train journey to Santa’s Workshop, a family-friendly trip. The After Christmas Trains run December 26 through 30, 2021, on holiday-decorated coaches as you continue the Christmas spirit.

In April, ride The Jazz Wine Train aboard the 1920s Victorian coaches with soulful jazz entertainment while sipping great Grapevine wine. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres plus a dessert trio box. Sip wine from several winery tasting rooms from a souvenir wine glass.

Bring the little ones for a Day Out With Thomas , presented by Mattel. Ride the train with the classic storybook engine and have fun with “trains, games & miles of smiles!”

Mattel and the Museum of the American Railroad helped sponsor this event. I took my grandchildren for a train ride right after Christmas on the Grapevine Railroad Stockyards Trinity River Excursion . We traveled from the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards, through Trinity Park to the 8th Avenue historic railyard, then returned to the stockyards.

You’ll see the Great Train Heist, with greedy outlaws and the railroad detectives close behind.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Grapevine To Fort Worth Stockyards

4. Along The Big Cypress Bayou

Historic jefferson railway.

Jefferson Railway Bridge in Jefferson, Texas

The gas-powered 1910 Plymouth Locomotive called “The Critter” and the Historic Jefferson Railway take you for a ride along the Big Cypress Bayou and through the piney woods. The 40-minute ride stops at Diamond Don Gator Pit where hungry alligators have lunch.

Watch for the Boggy Creek monster, the star of the 2010 horror movie, Boggy Creek , filmed locally.

The beast resembles the old Bigfoot or Sasquatch monster and is directed, and produced by Brian T. Jaynes.

Jefferson Train Days, happening every May, is the Historic Jefferson Train Show with operating model train layouts, Kids Corral, model train and toy vendors, and Thomas The Train Play area. You can ride the historic Jefferson Railway and the Lonesome Dove Safari and Train petting zoo.

Halloween Express runs day and evening narrated rides every Saturday in October featuring monsters of the deep. Listen to the storyteller along with this 40-minute train excursion with ghostly spirits, the monster, or Bigfoot emerging from the swamplands, but it’s not scary.

Enjoy the Christmas Express Train narrated day and evening tours with Christmas vignettes along the beautiful Big Cypress Bayou River. The New Year’s Express features beverages, noisemakers, and with the ball drop and five authentic cannons firing dramatic “dragons’ breath.”

On the last weekend In May, see the Great Locomotive Chase and Civil War Battle with reenactors from the North and South. Ride the 1870s replica steam train and hear the tale of the Andrews Raid, a thrilling railroad story. Engine #7, known as the Robert E. Lee will take you along Big Cypress Bayou, through the piney woods, where you will view a Confederate Powder Magazine and travel to the site of one of the oldest historical towns in Texas. Ride the Historic Jefferson Railway’s famous Ghost Train to experience the haunts of the Civil War.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Along The Big Cypress Bayou

5. Amtrak Texas Eagle

Amtrak isn’t necessarily a tourist train ride like the others we’ve mentioned here, but it must be included when talking about train rides in Texas. One of the three Amtrak routes in Texas is the Texas Eagle , which, by the way, is the longest train route in the whole country. There are more attractions to enjoy en route than we could ever list and is one of the best train trips in Texas.

The Texas Eagle will take you deep into the heart of Texas where you get to see the land of Lincoln, Illinois, travel across the Mississippi River and the Ozarks, and the trilling Piney Woods of East Texas. Along the way, you will Marvel at the gorgeous views of big cities, like the cosmopolitan Dallas, and Austin, before you arrive in popular San Antonio.

Amtrak’s Texas Eagle consists of double-deck Superliner cars and is staffed with a crew dedicated to your comfort. Anyone booking a private room in a sleeper car gets additional perks like complimentary meals and lounge access. In-room amenities include the fold-down tray, 110V outlet, attendant call button, lighting and climate controls, clothes closet, soap, and towels.

Now that’s some modern-day train travel for you.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Amtrak Texas Eagle

Is Food and Drink Available Onboard Texas State Railroad Train?

Yes. There is a concession car available offering a variety of non-alcoholic beverages as well as beer, wine, and premium liquor service. You can also buy snacks like candy bars, ice cream, and popcorn.

What Days Does the Austin Steam Train Association Train Run?

Their train usually runs on Saturdays and Sundays only. Whether the train runs Saturday AM, Saturday PM, or mid-day Sunday changes by season. Twice a year there may also be a mid-week Spring Break Train or Summertime Train.

What Time Does the Grapevine Vintage Railroad Train Board in Grapevine?

Boarding begins 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time in Grapevine. All passengers should be on board at least 10 minutes before departure because the train doesn’t stop for late passengers once it gets moving.

Which Is the Busiest and Most Popular Scenic Train Ride in Texas?

The state’s busiest and most popular scenic train ride is the Texas State Railroad, which hosts a multitude of excursions and numerous special events throughout the year depending on your interest. There are historic steam and diesel locomotives as well as trolleys in operation.

Why Take a Tourist Train Ride in Texas?

Tourist train rides offer entertaining journeys for the whole family. Whether you’re a local looking for something to do in your home state, a visitor interested in a unique experience, or an avid locomotive enthusiast, you will have a splendid time on one of these train rides in Texas.

Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

The Original Texas Tourist Guide - Since 1997 with over 60 Categories of Tourist Information Celebrating document.write(new Date().getFullYear()-1997) Great Years!

Find the best places to ride a train in TX and learn about how the railroad shaped the state. Texas is the place to be if you're a train enthusiast. More than 165 years ago the expansion, development and landscape of Texas was forever changed by the railroads. When the Sherman locomotive rolled down the tracks in Harrisburg it was the first running train in Texas and the second train to operate west of the Mississippi. The Texas railroad boom happened between 1900 and 1932. During this period 45% of Texas' railroad lines were constructed. As of 1911, Texas had more railroad mileage than any other state, and that remains true today. At the peak in 1932, there was a total of 17,078 miles of track across the Lone Star State. Organizations across Texas have carefully preserved much of state's railroad history. Entire museums are dedicated to sharing the story of the Texas railroad and the people who made it possible. You'll see photos, vintage train cars, perfect model replicas and much more. There are even operable tourist trains in Texas that let riders experience what it was like to travel before cars were invented. The guide below provides information on where to find trains in Texas and what type of activities you'll enjoy at each location. The guide below provides information on where to find trains in Texas and what type of activities you'll enjoy at each location. Train Tours Amtrak "America's Railroad" The main passenger train company for the entire USA. Their official name is the National Railroad Passenger Corporation. Who knew, right? Friends of the Texas State Railroad Train excursions between Palestine and Rusk, Texas. Galveston Island Trolley Galveston Island Trolley cars look like vintage electric trolleys, but actually they are modern build and diesel-electric powered. Grapevine Vintage Railroad The Tarantula Train is a steam train tour that runs from Grapevine to the Stock Yards in Fort Worth, TX Hill Country Flyer Train tour that goes from Cedar Park, Texas near Austin to Burnet, Texas and back. Historic Jefferson Railway - Jefferson, Texas The Robert E Lee, our steam locomotive, is more than 50 years old. We will run the steam train for most special events and have commissioned an antique gas-powered locomotive, the Critter, into service for our regularly scheduled weekend tours. M-Line - McKinney Avenue Transit Authority - McKinney, Texas The M-Line's air-conditioned and heated restored vintage trolleys operate normally 365 days a year, providing safe, clean, reliable, and convenient public transportation free of charge (except charters) in Dallas' vibrant Uptown Neighborhood. Train Museums The B-RI (Burlington-Rock Island) Railroad Museum - Teague, Texas Home of the Baldwin Steam Locomotive "Big Mike." Galveston Railroad Museum - Galveston, Texas Home of the Santa Fe Warbonnets. Interurban Railway Museum - Plano, Texas The Interurban Railway Museum is an interactive museum for children and adults of all ages. Visitors learn about the history of The Texas Electric Railway and the science behind how it worked. From hands-on electrical displays to a guided tour of Car 360, the museum has something for the whole family! Museum of the American Railroad - Frisco, Texas The museum collects artifacts and archival material from the railroad industry to exhibit and interpret their significance in American life and culture. Exhibits and general programs are provided year-round. Educational programs are available to local schools and universities through study trips, in-class programming & outreach, and online resources. New Braunfels Railroad Museum The New Braunfels Historic Railroad and Modelers Society (NBHRMS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of railroad artifacts and education. Our members have a diverse cross section of interests including railroad history, artifact collection, railfanning (Railfans are folks who love to observe trains in action), and model railroading in all scales. Railway Museum of San Angelo Celebrating over 100 years of rail history in San Angelo. Red River Railroad Museum - Denison Texas Come see pioneer heritage that has been carefully preserved for you. The Red River Railroad Museum is located inside the restored Historic Katy Depot in downtown Dension, Texas. Rosenberg Railroad Museum - Rosenberg, Texas is composed of indoor and outdoor elements. Our Gallery and the majority of our exhibits (Quebec, Tower 17, Caboose, Model Train room, etc) are indoors but walking outside is required to get from exhibit to exhibit. The Garden Railroad is outdoors. Texas & Pacific Railway Museum - Marshall, Texas Texas Transportation Museum - San Antonio, Texas They operate a working passenger railroad, several model train layouts and many road vehicles. Texas Transportation Museum is an all volunteer organization that collects, preserves and displays transportation equipment and related items. Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum - Temple, Texas The Railroad and Heritage Museum was founded in 1973 to collect, preserve and exhibit the history of the railroads and local history of Central Texas. Wichita Falls Railroad Museum - Wichita Falls, Texas They are dedicated to preserving Railroad History of the Wichita Falls area. They have a collection of railroad locomotives and railroad memorabilia related to the railroads that served the area. Model Railroad Displays CLMRR Alvarado (just a few miles south of Ft. Worth) The CLMRR is Texas' Largest HO Model Railroad located at 3904 Vista Ridge Ln Alvarado TX 76009. The mainline is over 2400 feet long with over 6000 feet of track under one roof. The building size is 112 ft. long and 40 ft. wide. Its mountain scenery will place you deep into the Rocky Mountains. As you leave Denver headed for the port of Seattle, it will allow you the experience of a working railroad as it traverses the layout. CLMRR welcomes guests with no admission charge. All we ask is to call and make arrangements. Lee Martin: 817-666-5367 Model Railroad Clubs AustNtrak N-Scale model railroad club in Austin, Texas. Cowtown Model Railroad Club - Fort Worth, Texas Home of the Gulf & Denver Railroad Authority HO-Scale Model Railroad Houston Area Live Steamers is devoted to live steam modeling: from locomotives, to stationary engines, to tractors and boats, with a particular emphasis on model trains large enough to ride. Houston Tinplate Operators Society (HTOS) is an organization of O-gauge train modelers whose principal interests range from true tinplate (pre & postwar) to near-scale 3-rail operation. Lone Star Region of the National Model Railroad Association This is a list of all of the Divisions in the Lone Star Region of the National Model Railroad Association. Train Collectors Association (TCA) - Lone Star Division You have just entered the web site of the Train Collectors Association - Lone Star Division. Our goal is to provide information about our Division and give an insight into the fascinating hobby of train collecting and operation. As you 'surf' the site you will find information about the chapter, pictures of members and their collections along with dates for upcoming events. North Texas Council of Railroad Clubs Website for Model Railroad Clubs in north Texas.

Tourist Trains in Texas, Train Tours, Train Museums, Train Clubs and Model Trains

Touring Texas Home Page

Useful Information

Call Falcon Insurance in San Antonio today for a Free Quote Call About Water softener systems for your home or business

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak stations in texas.

Texas has almost 20 Amtrak stations and three Amtrak routes: Heartland Flyer , Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle . You can travel regionally between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth on the Heartland Flyer, or reach many cities in Texas and far-away places such as Chicago, St. Louis, Los Angeles, Tucson and New Orleans via the other two routes. View the list of Texas Amtrak stations below to learn more.

Texas Amtrak Stations

More information.

Amtrak to Austin
Amtrak to Houston
Best Amtrak trips from Austin
Best Amtrak trips from Houston
Best Amtrak trips from San Antonio
Best things to do in Texas

*Alpine, Texas Amtrak station pictured above

Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
Subscribe Subscribed
Copy shortlink
Report this content
View post in Reader
Manage subscriptions
Collapse this bar

Best Train Rides in Texas

Did you know that Texas has some amazing train trips that offer spectacular scenery?

From historic routes to fall foliage viewing trains and from special train photography excursions to views of the pretty bluebonnets, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to the best train rides in Texas.

Ride in an open-air car and spot the wildlife or have the time of your life riding the caboose – these train trips in Texas are sure to delight passengers of all ages.

Enjoy this Ultimate Guide to the best train rides in Texas!

History of trains in Texas

Trains have played an important role in Texas’s history.

They were used by the early pioneers to defend the frontier and explore the vast rugged and untamed wilderness.

The railroad industry has also contributed significantly to the growing economy of the Lone Star State.

Railroads were used to transport cotton as well as cattle since the earliest of times.

Scenic train rides in Texas

The most scenic rides in Texas are spread all across the state.

From the historic Jefferson Railroad in East Texas to the Galveston Railroad on the Gulf Coast and from the Grapevine vintage Railroad in North Texas to Austin’s Hill Country flyer, you are sure to find a scenic train ride near you.

Many of the train rides are weather permitting, so be sure to confirm the schedule before you go.

Here are the best steam train rides in Texas as well as diesel train rides to add to your bucket list.

Texas State railroad, Palestine

The Texas State Railroad is one of the most well-known train rides in Texas.

Texas’s heritage is showcased on this popular journey that takes passengers back in time to the days of the steam engine.

Departing from Palestine, visitors can experience an old-fashioned train ride through East Texas’ piney woods and enjoy beautiful views along the way.

The trip starts with an orientation of the railroad’s fully restored 19th-century railway station before boarding one of their authentic steam locomotives.

After departing from Palestine train station, passengers will travel past the rolling hills and dense woods that are managed by the Texas State Parks department.

At the end, you will find Rusk which has a campground and is perfect for an overnight stay.

The trip is a scenic 50-mile round ride through East Texas woods and takes about 4 hours.

The train offers passengers the chance to ride in the caboose, presidential cars, observation car, or an open-air car.

The railroad has many themed excursions including the Wine Train, Pumpkin Patch Express , and the Polar Express train ride.

Read all about The Polar Express Excursion here.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad, Grapevine

Fancy a trip back in time?

Grapevine Vintage Railroad will take you on a journey through North Texas and let you relive the golden age of railroads.

The train ride is on authentic 1920s Victorian coaches with original furnishings and is a delight for railroad enthusiasts.

The popular Cotton Belt Route Excursion will take you to the historic Stockyards station in Fort Worth.

This stunning journey starts in Grapevine , known for its honor as the “Christmas Capital of Texas”.

On the layover in the Stockyards historic district, you can see the cattle drive and mock shoot out before returning to Grapevine.

Have less time?

Opt for the Tahwahkarro Creek Train Excursion.

This one hour long train is very scenic and perfect for kids.

All train rides feature outlaws and railroad robbery and are fun for the whole family.

The railroad also holds special excursions and events for Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Fourth of July weekend.

Their holiday train called the North Pole Express is one of the most popular train rides in Texas.

Austin Steam Train, Austin

The Austin Steam Train Association offers an amazing train journey through the Texas Hill Country.

Located in Cedar Park, the railroad has several different excursions.

The most popular is the Hill Country flyer.

On this train ride, passengers can explore the vintage cars and enjoy amazing views of the Hill Country.

The ride takes passengers on a 66 miles long, 6.5 hrs scenic journey to Burnet .

The trip includes a two-hour layover before returning to its hometown of Austin.

The ride is most popular during the Bluebonnet season.

Visitors can catch and photograph the beautiful bluebonnets as they bloom between February and April.

The railroad also offers a variety of other train rides including the romantic Moonlight Express, Wine Train, and the North Pole flyer.

Historic Jefferson Railway, Jefferson

Take a trip back in time to the days of steam engines that shaped Texas’s history on this scenic journey from Jefferson along the Big Cypress Bayou.

The scenic train ride has amazing views of the wetlands, dense woods. and marshes.

A highlight of the Jefferson Big Cypress Bayou Railway is the stop at Diamond Don Gator Pit.

Here visitors can see live alligators and even watch them being fed!

During the holiday season, the railroad hosts the Trail of Lights Christmas train.

Harborside Express, Galveston

The Galveston Railroad Museum is a must-visit for any railroad fans.

This sprawling museum has an amazing rolling stock and detailed railroad exhibits as well as artifacts.

On the visit to the museum, you can also enjoy the train ride.

The Harborside Express is a 15 minutes long train ride that features an open-air caboose.

The train trip offers spectacular views of the Port of Galveston as well as cruise ships.

Train tracks run along the water’s edge for about 15 miles before boarding a ferry boat that crosses Galveston Bay.

The train is operational only on the weekends.

Visitors need to purchase train tickets in addition to the Museum admission.

Texas Transportation Museum, San Antonio

The Texas Transportation Museum in San Antonio is the perfect way to have fun for the whole family.

Here, you can enjoy the museum exhibits filled with amazing railroad artifacts as well as cool under 15 minutes round trip train ride.

The ride aboard the Longhorn and Western Railroad is on vintage locomotives and included in the ticket to the museum.

Visitors can opt for the optional Diesel Cab Ride or enjoy the Santa’s Railroad Wonderland ride in the holiday season.

Amtrak train rides in Texas

Did you know that there are over 20 Amtrak stations in Texas?

Several Amtrak routes pass through the state and make excellent vacations for railroad fans.

Here are the most popular Amtrak routes in Texas.

Texas Eagle

This Amtrak route connects Chicago to San Antonio.

Within the state, you can use it to travel from Marshall in East Texas to Dallas and San Antonio via Austin and the Hill Country.

You can use the Amtrak Texas eagle route to plan an epic fall foliage viewing ride or see the wildflowers in spring.

The route connects three of the most popular cities in Texas and has lots of potential to plan a vacation.

Heartland Flyer

The Heartland Flyer Amtrak route connects Oklahoma City to Fort Worth.

The train ride is just for as long and a great option to a road trip.

The trains allows riders to carry bikes and other gear supplies, too.

Sunset Limited

The Sunset Limited begins in New Orleans and ends in Los Angeles.

The Texas portion of this route extends from Beaumont to El Paso.

With stops in Houston and San Antonio, this route is a popular Amtrak vacation to explore the major cities.

The section between Alpine and El Paso is perfect to explore the west Texas desert scenery and visit major attractions such as Big Bend National Park in West Texas.

The route has observation cars as well as dining car and is one of the most popular Amtrak vacations in America.

Miniature train rides in Texas for kids

In addition to the all day excursions on vintage train engines and heritage railroad lines, Texas also has a variety of miniature railroads for kids.

These train rides are perfect for young train enthusiasts include including babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Here are our favorite miniature train rides in Texas.

San Antonio Zoo Eagle

The San Antonio Zoo railroad is one of the longest miniature railroads in the world!

Also known as the Brackenridge Eagle Miniature Railroad, the train ride is a favorite with kids of all ages.

The train offers a fun ride through the park, over bridges, along the San Antonio River, and even has a tunnel.

The ride is about 15 minutes long and one of the best things to do in San Antonio with kids.

Forest Park miniature Railroad

Explore the beautiful scenery at Trinity Park in Fort Worth on a 5 miles round trip miniature train ride.

The train ride is 40-45 minutes long and kids absolutely love it.

Even adults enjoy seeing the artwork surrounding the train track.

The train ride starts at Forest Park Depot and is a great family attraction in Fort Worth.

The train ride tickets are cash only, so be sure to carry some change when you go.

Built in 1883 to transport cotton and grain between Waco and Yuma, this historic track will take you back in time.

This picturesque vintage steam engine that runs on a 45-minute journey includes an audio commentary in the restored 1920s railway station, which served as a major stop in Waco.

Zilker Eagle, Austin

The Zilker Eagle is a miniature train ride located in Zilker Park, Austin.

It was previously known as the Zilker Zephyr.

This new all-electric Kiddie Park mini train is an instant favorite with kids.

The train ride is about 10 to 15 minutes long and goes through the beautiful scenery of Zilker Park.

Hermann Park Train, Houston

The Hermann Park Railroad is one of the best things to do in Houston with kids.

The 2-mile long train ride is located amidst major city attractions such as the Houston Zoo and Japanese garden.

The open cars are perfect to take in the scenery of Hermann Park and enjoy people-watching.

Did we miss any other amazing train rides in Texas? Let us know in the comments!

Love this post? Share it!

1 thought on “Best Train Rides in Texas”

Houston Area Live Steamers located at Zube Park in Harris County. It is a 12” scale railroad.

History on the Rails

The best way to learn about the past is to experience it. And unless you have access to a DeLorean and a flux capacitor, a great way to do that is by getting cozy inside the cab of one of Texas’ train cars. So, the next time you’re looking for something a little different (and a little more on-the-go) than a museum, grab some friends and family and check out one of these three historic rides. It’s like a museum on rails!

The Texas State Railroad

On this 1920’s passenger train, you get to see all that’s great about East Texas as you travel from Rusk to Palestine and back. The refurbished cars provide a smooth, comfortable ride while maintaining a rustic, historic feel.

You’ll be transported to old Texas on this 25-mile (round trip) adventure. The whole ride takes about four hours to coast through the piney woods and streams – a trip that will make for timeless, delightful views. As the Texas State Railroad train chugs along, you can sit back and enjoy a drink, relax and almost forget the ways of modern transportation, all while feeling like you’re part of the Roaring '20s.

The Austin Steam Train Association in Cedar Park

Located in Cedar Park , the Austin Steam Train Association is dedicated to preserving and re-creating the experiences of steam railroading. The good ol’ steam days! The trains run year-round and travel from Cedar Park to Burnet , with plenty of stops in-between. What really sets this station apart is the fact they offer nine different types of train cars to experience, each with its own respective class—everything from traditional Excursion Class to Adults-Only First Class. The best part?

These trains are real pieces of history that have been restored down to the finest detail. Some were used in Chicago, New York and even St. Louis’ historic “Nickel Plate” Railroad. Also, look out for the ASTA’s special events like a Day out with Thomas (you bet that’s Thomas the Train) and the North Pole Flyer™, the decked-out holiday train ride that travels every year during the holiday season.

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Snuggled between Fort Worth and Dallas is a little town called Grapevine . Smack-dab in the city’s historic downtown is where you’ll find the Grapevine Vintage Railroad . This railroad is perfect for the whole family and features authentic, 1920’s-era Victorian train coaches that are hauled by two vintage locomotives: an 1890’s steam locomotive and a 1950’s diesel locomotive. The train travels along the old Cotton Belt Route, which operated from 1891 to 1980 and cut through other states, including Missouri, Kansas, Tennessee and parts of Louisiana. The train is open for 10 months each year and gets inspected every January and February. This railway is also riddled with special events, everything from the North Pole Express and the Jazz Wine Train to the Mother’s Day Train and even the Kiss Me I’m Irish Express.

With so many train experiences to check out in Texas, it’s impossible to recommend one over the other. So check out as many as you want and a learn a little bit of state history each time you climb aboard.

More Texas Inspiration

The Historical Hills of Texas

Walk with Dinosaurs and Mingle with Mammoths in Prehistoric Texas

Take a Day Trip Through Time

We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy .

Travel & Meeting Pros
Accessibility
Privacy Policy & Terms Of Use

All Material © 2024 Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism 1100 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-2000

All Our Stories
Agriculture & Animals
Film & TV
Food & Drink
Heel To Toe
Stories From Texas
Texan Translation
Typewriter Rodeo
Weekend Trip Tips
Where There’s Smoke
Border & Immigration
Business & Economy
Crime & Justice
Disability in Texas
Energy & Environment
Child Welfare
PolitiFact Texas
Week in Texas Politics
Health & Science
Military and Veterans’ Affairs
Texas Newsroom
Race & Identity
Tech & Innovation
Transportation
Texas Standard
Stories from Texas
Show Archives
Whole Shows
How to Listen

Want to see more of Texas? Take the train.

Share this story with a friend:.

Extra Zebra, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Amtrak's Sunset Limited.

When you think about traveling the broad expanse of flat country from San Antonio to El Paso, you probably imagine getting into a car. But some people choose to make the journey on Amtrak’s Sunset Limited instead.

The train is not a fast way to get where you’re going, but it can be a very interesting one, filled with the stories of those who ride the rails because they love to, or because they don’t have another choice.

Texas Monthly reporter Sasha von Oldershausen wrote for the magazine about her experiences traveling to West Texas on the train. Listen to the interview above or read the transcript below.

This transcript has been edited lightly for clarity:

Why did you want to write about the trains, specifically the Sunset Limited?

Sasha Von Oldershausen: Well, I have a really close attachment to the train – one that’s attached to my relationship to Texas, I think. I had moved out to far West Texas back in 2014 for a job as a local newspaper reporter. And I was from New York City and was a really bad driver, so I needed to find out another way to get there.

You’re used to trains; I guess it would make sense. I don’t reckon you were expecting that the train wouldn’t run too often through West Texas. I mean, where in Texas can you even go by train?

Yeah, there are just a few stops. The Sunset Limited train makes seven. It traverses pretty much the expanse of the state. And I think those stops are Beaumont, Houston, San Antonio, Del Rio, Sanderson, Alpine and El Paso. So I was getting off at Alpine.

What are the trains traveling through Texas like?

Well, they’re long. They take a really long time. It’s not a place where you can expect to get from point A to point B efficiently. But with that wealth of time, you often end up just lingering in the space and encountering a lot of people. And I really became enamored with that way of traveling, just having the opportunity to sit and watch people as they, you know, made their passage.

So when you travel on the train, do you just get a standard coach seat, or do you travel in style? How do you do it?

Well, most of my life, I definitely wasn’t traveling in style. All I could afford was the coach seat. But for this assignment with Texas Monthly, I was given the opportunity to take the sleeper car, which was just such a joy. It really makes the 16 hours from Austin to Alpine seem that much shorter. So that’s a seven-hour drive [or] a 16-hour train ride.

So tell us about that sleeper car. That’s got to make up for some of that time lost.

It’s no Darjeeling Limited, but it definitely feels like luxury when you’ve been riding coach for so long. So they have these, like, fold-out cots, if you will; it’s seats that turn into a mattress. And there’s hands-on service – they’ll turn down the bed for you; you get fresh linens. And it’s a really small space, but it feels so quaint and cozy. It’s like the perfect place to curl up with a book.

You have your own window, depending on what kind of sleeper car you get. You can even get your own bathroom, which for me is the biggest prohibiting factor in taking the train. The bathrooms really grossed me out. But when you’re in the sleeper car, you’re sharing the bathroom with fewer people. So it does make the experience less onerous.

» GET MORE NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE: Sign up for Texas Standard’s weekly newsletters

Are there a lot of people riding the train these days?

I think – I mean, I haven’t noticed any difference in the number of passengers in the years that I’ve been taking it. I think there’s often a good number of people taking the train.

And some folks have a fear of flying. I met one woman who had just had a surgery and couldn’t fly, and so she had to take the train. For others, you know, a coach ticket is like 40 bucks. So getting across the country, it can just be a much more affordable solution.

Can you tell us about some of the folks you met riding the Sunset Limited?

Oh, yeah. I mean, it’s not just the people I’ve met, but just overheard conversations as well. I once overheard a conversation a woman was having on the phone about some close relative who had recently incurred some sort of burn injury, and she was on her way to the hospital. And that was just so deeply moving to witness.

And then I’ve just encountered so many people in that cafe car, you know, a guy who just really wanted to show me the gunshot wounds on his torso. I ended up having dinner with him in the dining car. And more recently, I encountered a guy on the cafe cart who pulled out a box, a tattoo box, and started tattooing his own knuckles on the train before a conductor intervened and told him he couldn’t do that there.

Wow. I know that a lot of people romanticize the experience of train travel, and watching the scenery go by. That kick in for you?

Yeah. I mean, it certainly is beautiful. From Austin, if you’re traveling to Alpine, you get on the train later in the evening. And so you can miss a lot of it in those dark hours. But when you wake up and you get that pale desert light as you’re coming into far West Texas, it’s just so incredibly stunning.

And there’s an observation car that’s just made up of windows. And it’s a really wonderful way to just watch the scenery pass.

What are some of the things that you can see from the train?

Well, one landmark is the Pecos River, and you cross over this railroad bridge. If it’s early enough – and the train schedule will vary based on freight traffic, which often causes delays, so you don’t always get the opportunity to see it – but once in a while the conductor will come on the train and announce that we’re about to cross the Pecos River. And it just spans across – it’s really quite a sight.

I would imagine it would give you a real sense of the scale of the state in a way that maybe being behind the wheel doesn’t?

Yeah, absolutely. And I think it also just affords you this luxury of slowing down, which in our fast-paced world is such a rarity.

I think I know the answer to this one, but when you travel, would you prefer one over the other, coach versus sleeper?

Now that I’ve tasted the sleeper car, I don’t know that I can never go back to coach, but I’m not sure that my wallet will permit it. I didn’t mention that on the sleeper car you have meals included as well, and that’s in the dining car, which is a much more sort of rarefied experience. You get like tablecloths and porcelain, and the meals are actually really, really good.

So at the end of the day, would you recommend the train for a trip to West Texas? Or easier just to get there, best to just to get there?

Always and forever recommending the train. You know, driving is its own kind of romance, but the train is something altogether different.

If you found the reporting above valuable, please consider making a donation to support it here . Your gift helps pay for everything you find on texasstandard.org and KUT.org . Thanks for donating today.

More from 10/23/2023

What are the most haunted places in Texas?

U.S. Reps. Jodey Arrington, Roger Williams decline House speaker bid

The parallel storylines of the first three seasons of ‘Ted Lasso’ and Austin FC

U.S. opens new path to entry for Ecuadorians

After a series of suicides, the USS George Washington returns to sea with more mental healthcare

Texas Standard for Oct. 23, 2023: What are the most haunted places in Texas?

The texas standard is a partnership of.

At the Depot

Aboard the train, on the rails.

All Excursions
Piney Woods Express Diesel
Piney Woods Express Steam
Dogwood Lunch Trains
Easter Lunch Train
Father’s Day Lunch Train
Mother’s Day Lunch Train
Piney Woods Evening Dinner Train
A Prom Night through the Decades
Speakeasy Special
Wine in the Pines
Excursion Calendar

On Train Celebrations
Lakeside Pavillion
Historic Chapel
Book Online

Where History, Nature and Adventure Meet

Making Time Stand Still

From the moment your party steps on-board one of our beautifully refurbished train cars, they’ll feel like they’ve been transported to a simpler, more leisurely time where the distractions and of our modern world suddenly disappear. Breathe deep, enjoy a drink and relax as you lose yourself on a round-trip, four-hour, 25-mile rail journey through the Piney Woods of East Texas where history is just part of the journey.

About Texas State Railroad

Vintage steam and diesel locomotives take passengers across the celebrated rails of the Piney Woods Route between the quaint East Texas towns of Palestine and Rusk on a 50-mile roundtrip adventure.

This quintessential day trip, only a few hours from the metropolitan communities of Dallas and Houston, will create a memory that will last a lifetime.

Sign Up for ECLUB!

Receive the latest news and events from the Texas State Railroad

Quick Links

Because of special, incidental or consequential situations that may be out of our control, Texas State Railroad reserves the right to adjust our operation between the date of your booking and the day of departure. These changes could include (but not be limited to): locomotive power for the day, passenger car assignments, layover and/or meal time during the four-hour ride and departure and/or arrival times. Thanking you in advance for your consideration.

Entertainment
Sports Sports Betting Podcasts Better Planet Vault Mightier Autos Newsletters Unconventional Vantage Experts Voices
Subscribe for $1
Sports Betting
Better Planet
Newsletters
Unconventional

Texas Poised to Get America's First Bullet Train

President Joe Biden is reportedly seeking to revive a project that would construct a high-speed railway from Houston to Dallas in Texas utilizing Japanese bullet trains.

According to a Reuters report on Tuesday, citing unnamed administration sources, the White House is looking to make an announcement on the project following talks between Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington, D.C., this week.

The Japanese government and the White House declined to comment on the report, though the project has seen renewed support from Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg , who told KXAS in Fort Worth on Sunday: "We believe in this."

"Obviously, it has to turn into a more specific design and vision, but everything I've seen makes me very excited," he added.

A statement of support for the project from Biden and Kishida could create renewed efforts to bring it to fruition, including funding from the Department of Transportation and attracting private investors.

Bullet trains can operate up to a speed of 200 mph, and therefore pose a potential for shortening the time it takes to travel between cities. While one would take an estimated 90 minutes to travel between Dallas and Houston, the same journey by road would take about three and a half hours.

This would make traveling between the two cities easier, promoting the economies of both and stimulating the jobs market. Having a high-speed link would also alleviate the need for through-trains on slower lines, meaning more stopping trains could be scheduled as required.

As the U.S. spans vast distances, public transport has largely been localized and intercity travel dominated by cars. A successful high-speed rail link would take commuters off the road, aiding the Biden administration's push toward a green economy .

Shocking video shows moment cargo train crashes into semi-truck
I'm a Black man. I'm not offended by racial jokes
East Palestine, one year on: "We lost everything"
Residents launch class action lawsuit over "devastating" train derailment

However, the project still faces potential obstacles, including lawmakers in Congress and Texas. A 2017 report by the Department of Transportation put the cost of the project at $15 billion to $18 billion, but some estimates have put it as high as $30 billion.

The train line could also face opposition from landowners along the various proposed routes who would likely have to contend with disruption from construction, noise in residential areas from passing high-speed trains, as well as nearby protected species' habitats being impacted, according to an assessment by the Federal Railroad Administration.

The issues have hampered other high-speed rail links, such as the HS2 project linking London to Birmingham in the U.K., which has seen costs spiral due to revisions and delays in construction. In October, the British government cut back the proposed route to save money.

The plans have also faced regulatory constraints. As this is the first of its kind in the U.S., the Department of Transportation spent three years devising safety standards for railways with trains traveling in excess of 150 miles.

American railways suffer frequent derailments due to lax regulations and aging infrastructure, with many railroads running level with the ground and across roads. In 2022, the Brightline connecting West Palm Beach and Orlando in Florida suffered a spate of deaths after pedestrians got onto the tracks.

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer

Aleks Phillips is a Newsweek U.S. News Reporter based in London. His focus is on U.S. politics and the environment. He has covered climate change extensively, as well as healthcare and crime. Aleks joined Newsweek in 2023 from the Daily Express and previously worked for Chemist and Druggist and the Jewish Chronicle. He is a graduate of Cambridge University. Languages: English.

You can get in touch with Aleks by emailing [email protected].

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.

Newsweek magazine delivered to your door
Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
Comment on articles
Newsweek app updates on-the-go

China's Warplanes Face Threat From Neighbor's New Air Defense Missile

Thomas Massie's Russia Ties Resurface Ahead of Ukraine Aid Vote

Donald Trump May Have Found 'Loophole' in Gag Order: Lawyer

Tucker Carlson Sparks Conservative Fury

US, Japan signal support for Texas high-speed rail plan

Medium Text

U.S. President Biden hosts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida for an official State Dinner at the White House in Washington

Get weekly news and analysis on the U.S. elections and how it matters to the world with the newsletter On the Campaign Trail. Sign up here.

Reporting by Tim Kelly and Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Christopher Cushing

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Former U.S. President Trump's criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records continues in New York

World Chevron

An election election campaign rally by PM Modi in Agartala

India’s Lok Sabha Election Live: The world’s biggest democracy votes

Elections to India's lower house of parliament, the Lok Sabha, run over nearly seven weeks from April 19 to June 4. Most opinion polls predict that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will win a third term at the head of his ruling nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Demonstrators protest in solidarity with Pro-Palestinian organizers on the Columbia University campus, in New York City

Amtrak is now driving Dallas to Houston bullet train proposal

"this is very much a project that amtrak is now leading," said andy byford, amtrak's vice president of high-speed rail development, by phil prazan • published april 16, 2024 • updated on april 16, 2024 at 11:07 pm.

An Amtrak leader says they're in the engineer's seat for the proposal to build a high-speed train between Dallas and Houston. The proposed route makes one of the best cases for the technology train advocates argue.

After a presentation at the Southwestern Rail Conference in Hurst, the man overseeing high speed rail for Amtrak told reporters they've come to a non-binding agreement with Texas Central, the company pushing the idea before the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Andy Byford, details of the agreement between Amtrak and Texas Central are subject to a non-disclosure agreement but much of the work previously done has been helpful for planners. Amtrak staff is now doing intense due diligence over where the project stands and the next steps. The transition includes working through federal environmental approval, the sign-off for the Japanese technology behind the bullet train, and a court decision giving the project eminent domain authority.

Many significant hurdles remain for the idea but Byford said he's optimistic about what he's seen so far. Amtrak joined the project with Texas Central in 2023 and submitted it to the Federal Railroad Administration's Corridor ID program. That program acts like a pipeline of projects to get priority funding. Tuesday, the Amtrak leader gave a full-throated endorsement of the project, arguing it's the next best route in the country for high-speed rail.

Get DFW local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC DFW newsletters .

"I think the alternative is to condemn Americans to ever more crowded interstates; to condemn taxpayers to ever widening of highways," said Byford.

The Southwestern Rail Conference gathered rail advocates across the state to hear Byford's presentation along with a speech by Amit Bose, the Federal Railroad Administrator, and other advocates and train operators. With a train-friendly Biden Administration in Washington and a huge influx in new transportation money coming from the bipartisan infrastructure law passed in 2021, rail advocates say the time is now to get major projects off the ground.

The latest news from around North Texas.

Frisco to hold fentanyl awareness forum for Spanish-speaking community

Enjoy the state flower at the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival this weekend

Byford argues that the Dallas-to-Houston route has the right geography, the right population size, and the right distance apart for a high-speed train to thrive. He told the crowd that if the project is successful, it may be a reality by the early 2030s. The largest hurdles remain to cobble together money for the project and win over skeptics in the Texas legislature and landowners between the two cities.

“My watchword is transparency. I don’t believe you can please everyone. I don’t think the interstates would have been built if you tried to please absolutely everyone. I think sometimes what you’re aiming to do is at least hear people out, hear their point of view," said Byford.

Amtrak estimates the project may be north of $30 billion and over the next eighteen months Byford said he will be putting together a public and private funding package "the likes of which has not been seen before."

Support from D.C.

Amtrak taking over the project gave the idea a shot in the arm. Amtrak's board is appointed by the President of the United States. The Biden Administration recently threw its support behind the Dallas to Houston rail project.

"We believe in this. Obviously, it has to turn into a more specific design and vision but everything I've seen makes me very excited about this," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg on Lone Star Politics, NBC 5's Sunday morning public affairs show.

Last week, President Biden and the Prime Minister of Japan released a fact sheet detailing their support for the project after their state dinner.

"The successful completion of development efforts and other requirements would position the project for potential future funding and financing opportunities," staff for the two leaders wrote.

Amtrak is currently working on a Service Development Plan to then pitch the project to the Federal Railroad Administration for priority funding. Recently, a train between Los Angeles to San Francisco and another form Las Vegas to Los Angeles just received $3 billion each in federal funds.

Challenges remain

A coalition of landowners opposes the plan because the route is slated to go through their property. Texans Against High-Speed Rail president Trey Duhon spoke with NBC 5. Duhon has also served as the Waller County Judge for the past decade.

Texans Against High Speed Rail recently filed a complaint with the Department of Justice, claiming the company was working as a foreign agent. It is unclear what will become of the complaint if Texas Central steps away from the project. Texas Central's board disbanded, and its CEO resigned. NBC 5 requested an interview with the company's leaders but has not yet heard back.

Duhon said just the planning for this project has led to negative consequences for landowners along the route.

“People forget, we’ve got thousands of landowners along the route. This has now been hanging over their head for ten years. Once that line goes on a map, you’re hosed," said Duhon.

Around thirty percent of the land is already acquired for the project.

Duhon said Amtrak taking over the project does change things because decisions will now be made in Washington, D.C., and funding becomes less of an issue.

"It becomes hogs at the trough, and they’re all just trying to get their piece of this infrastructure money," said Duhon.

Several years ago the Texas legislature rejected the idea of using any state money to build high-speed rail. Leaders in the Texas legislature have been relatively quiet recently on the idea. Texas Central had problems getting enough support for the plan in its many years of advocating for the program.

“Are the feds going to fund this thing because nobody else is coming to the rescue," said Duhon.

Byford aims to get the project far enough along so leaders in Texas make a decision: do they want high-speed rail or not?

"Ultimately, if we can’t make the case, or we can’t raise the money, or if people really don’t want it, then there are plenty of other viable city pairings," he said.

This article tagged under:

‘Now’s the time’: Amtrak leader urges momentum on Dallas-to-Houston high-speed rail

H URST — Booming demand, Texas’s rapidly expanding population and growing political will have converged to create the right environment to move high-speed rail ahead , Amtrak leadership said Tuesday.

Andy Byford, Amtrak’s senior vice president of high-speed rail development, told participants of the 20th annual Southwestern Rail Conference in Hurst that the Dallas-to-Houston corridor “ticks all the boxes” for a high-speed rail project. It would connect two large population centers, it has straightforward topography and “suboptimal alternatives” for travel, pointing to congestion on Interstate 45 and area airports.

“If you put together all those characteristics, and then you figure out okay, which route would you build? There’s one that really stands out, and that is Dallas to Houston,” Byford said.

The proposed train would shuttle passengers from Dallas to Houston in about 90 minutes compared to the three-and-a-half-hour car trip on Interstate 45. Texas Central Partners, developers of the project, plan to model the bullet train after partner Japan Central Railways’ Shinkansen system.

Amtrak announced last fall that it would explore a partnership with Texas Central to move the project forward, and it was awarded $500,000 for planning and development from the federal Corridor Identification and Development Program . The grant is a sliver of the estimated tens of billions needed to complete the project.

The U.S. Department of Transportation and Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism welcomed Amtrak leadership of the rail project following a State Dinner between President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida last week.

Byford was not present at the meeting but said there is “huge interest” in the project among Japanese and American leadership.

“I did have a meeting with Secretary Buttigieg, the Secretary of Transportation, and he said he himself is very committed to the project, that the president himself is very committed to the project,” Byford said.

Federal Railroad Administration administrator Amit Bose, who gave a keynote address at the conference, did not give specifics on the meeting when asked about it Tuesday but emphasized the federal government’s openness to exploring more transportation options in the state.

“From a federal perspective, we cannot overlook how big of a state that Texas obviously is and how much growth is happening here, especially in the Dallas and Houston metropolitan areas,” Bose said. “We always look for opportunities to give people who want to travel between these two metropolitan areas [and] not just rely on I-45, not to just have sit in traffic on I-45, so we want to explore options.”

A seven-story-high elevated station near Cadiz and Austin streets in Dallas’ Cedars neighborhood has already received federal clearance . Regional planners at the North Central Texas Council of Governments hope to continue the rail line west to Fort Worth with a stop in Arlington.

The corridor between Fort Worth and Dallas began the environmental review phase in March despite skepticism about the project from Dallas City Council members. Some fear an at-grade or elevated train route could jeopardize the new Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center , though planners are doubtful there is a realistic path forward for an underground route.

Hunt Realty Investments, one of Dallas’ biggest property owners, says the elevated rail route would compromise their planned $5 billion development project . The route would slice through the southwest corner of downtown Dallas where Hunt Realty Investments owns the more than 20-acre Reunion property, which includes the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Reunion Tower .

Forty-two alternate route alignments have been considered and rejected since 2020, including a subway option that would require a 17-story vertical transfer, adding at least a 20-minute delay for passengers.

Dallas leaders who raised questions about the Fort Worth stop have said they support the Dallas-to-Houston leg of the project, saying it would make the region a top destination for travelers.

Byford acknowledged the hurdles, including that right-of-way for the project has not been fully obtained, particularly around Dallas, and that the project lacks funding. But if the project successfully gets through the Corridor ID process, leadership can apply for a federal-state partnership for grant funding. That process would take about a year, with service projected to begin in the 2030s.

“There’s still a long way to go but exciting times nonetheless,” Byford said. “If we’re ever going to introduce high-speed rail in the U.S., now’s the time.”

Andy Byford, Senior Vice President of High-Speed Rail Development Programs at Amtrak, leads a session during the 20th Annual Southwestern Rail Conference, on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Hurst Conference Center, in Hurst.

On everyone's mind at the Southwestern Rail Conference? The proposed Texas bullet train

A wide image of two bullet trains passing each other on tracks

High speed rail in Texas is big talk in a state ruled by cars.

Still, transportation officials are moving forward with plans to build a bullet train connecting Fort Worth, Dallas and Houston.

The project was a major focus at this week's Southwestern Rail Conference in Hurst. KERA's Pablo Arauz Peña was there and spoke with All Things Considered host Justin Martin about what he learned.

Pablo, for those who don't know, what is the Southwestern Rail Conference?

So, the Southwestern Rail Conference is a meeting of rail advocates from across the country, from various sectors of the industry. It's where government agencies and major companies in the industry come together to talk about what the future could look like for railway projects, especially here in Texas. So this is the conference’s 20th year, and it's happening just a few months after Amtrak announced it's partnering with a Dallas based firm, Texas Central, to study the potential for a bullet train from Houston to North Texas. It'd be the first bullet train in the U.S.

What are some of the conversations you've been hearing about the project?

So a lot of people want to see high speed rail in Texas, but the questions now are when and how. The answer to the first question is complicated. Here's David Peter Alan, editor for Railway Age.

“ I don't think the political will exists in this country to pay for it.”

Still, there has been some progress on the Dallas to Houston bullet train in recent months. Since Amtrak took up the project last August, the Dallas High-Speed rail station has already been federally approved, but the Fort Worth to Dallas leg of the project is going through an environmental review that will finish up in less than a year. From there, Amtrak hopes to make headway on the eminent domain issues, but there has been a lot of opposition from landowners. That's what makes the “how” question a little bit harder to answer.

The bottom line is Texas is growing, and local, state and federal officials involved in planning for infrastructure know that we can only build so many highways and lanes. The idea of making high speed rail or any type of passenger rail more of an option for residents is becoming more tenable.

I suppose the big question is what are elected officials saying about high speed rail?

Yeah, so yesterday, Travis County Judge Andy Brown from the Austin area said he's made passenger rail one of his top priorities. He's proposing a program like Texas has with highways, where the feds would match state money to $0.80 on the dollar for rail.

“ A passenger rail system not only broadens our transportation choices, but it also enhances the infrastructure crucial for improving the quality of life for people in Austin and Travis County in Texas. And that's really what matters here.”

Now, that program doesn't exist. But I spoke to a former state senator, Richard Anderson, who represented East Texas. He's now advocating for the I-20 corridor, a passenger rail that would connect Dallas to Atlanta. Anderson says he thinks the issue of funding passenger rail should go to voters like the legislature did with broadband recently. And if it's on the ballot and voters want it, then maybe there's a chance that we could see more political support for passenger rail projects like the bullet train to Houston.

So, it sounds like funding is a pretty big barrier to passenger rail in Texas. What are some other takeaways you have from this year's conference so far?

There are plenty of obstacles on the track, so to speak. For high speed rail, I've been hearing phrases like possible but not probable and not in our lifetime thrown around when it comes to the bullet train project. So there's still a lot of skepticism. A lot of folks are at this conference to hear from Andy Byford, the so-called train daddy, who's known for his accomplishments in improving the Metropolitan Transit Authority in New York City. Now he's an executive at Amtrak. And many here are saying that if anyone can bring high speed rail to the US, it's him.

Got a tip? Email Pablo Arauz Peña at [email protected]

KERA News is made possible through the generosity of our members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today . Thank you.

Newsletters

IE 11 Not Supported

Texas tech wins grant to train cybersecurity workforce, texas tech university was one of 18 u.s. institutions to receive a grant from the national institute of standards and technology, with which it will build out the west texas cyber workforce development consortium..

Watch CBS News

SEPTA hits the brakes on double-decker train cars for regional rail system

By Jessica MacAulay , CBS News Philadelphia Staff

April 14, 2024 / 8:18 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- SEPTA is hitting the brakes on a project that's been in the works for over seven years. The transit company halted its $185 million project to implement double-decker train cars in its regional rail line system.

"SEPTA has terminated its contract with CRRC MA for cause. The Authority is assessing its options for recouping funds that have been spent on the project," SEPTA media relations told CBS Philadelphia Friday.

A project description for the double-decker railcars, provided by SEPTA, shows CRRC MA was set to produce 45 railcars with an option for an additional 10 push-pull railcars.

According to SEPTA, at this time the transit company is working to get back $50 million already spent on the project.

The project description also showed the double-decker railcars would be ADA-compliant and include passenger perks like a state-of-the-art climate control system, a bike storage area and onboard Wi-Fi.

According to the company's website, CRRC MA specializes in railcar manufacturing and green transportation. The company makes high-speed trains, mass transit vehicles, passenger coaches, wind power equipment and engineering machinery.

CRRC MA is a combination of two large Chinese railroad vehicle manufacturers. The railcar producers' North America office is based in Boston.

SEPTA Train
Philadelphia

Jessica MacAulay is an associate digital producer for CBSPhiladelphia.com. Jessica started out her career in broadcast journalism originally as an intern for CBS Philadelphia. She covers breaking news, local community and crime stories.

Featured Local Savings

"RuPaul's Drag Race" 16 finalist Sapphira Cristál opens up about journey, love for Philly

President Biden in Philadelphia today in third Pennsylvania visit this week

Aqua New Jersey develops new water treatment system to remove harmful PFAS in Lawrenceville

Inside Battleship New Jersey's "historic homecoming" to Philadelphia Navy Yard

Travel Updates

China brutally mocked over new train station design

The design of a proposed train station in China has gone global for all the wrong reasons.

Richard Marles on China’s criticism over National Defence Strategy

Travellers frantic as airport ‘runs out of food’

Couple believed to be killed by sheep

Migrant with ‘not criminals’ sign rapes 15yo

The design of a proposed train station in China is supposed to take inspiration from a flower but people on social media can’t see anything but a sanitary pad.

And for that reason, a rendered image of the proposed North Nanjing station has gone global.

Authorities have reportedly claimed the inspiration for the design was the plum blossom, which is a beloved flower.

Nanjing hosted a festival in February and March dedicated to them.

The new North Nanjing station has been mocked globally for looking like a sanitary pad. Picture: Weibo

On Chinese social media platforms, the topic has generated millions of views, according to British public service broadcaster BBC.

“This is a giant sanitary pad. It’s embarrassing to say it looks like a plum blossom,” one person was quoted to say on Weibo.

“Why can we all tell it is a sanitary pad immediately, but the architects can’t?” another user wrote.

Plum blossoms are a beloved flower in the area and inspired the design. Picture: istock

Foreign social media users have been left just as shocked.

“It’s another ‘were there any women in the room when this was being designed?’ things,” wrote one woman, attracting thousands of likes on Instagram.

More Coverage

Another popular comment agreed: “This is what happens when there are no women in the room.”

“Did they not notice that plum blossoms have five petals?” one comment asked with almost 2000 likes in support.

The design was approved by the government of Jiangsu province and China State Railway Group, according to state-owned media.

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Stressed passengers at Dubai’s major airports, including those travelling from Australia, have said conditions are dire.

A sheep is believed to have killed a New Zealand man and a woman after police made a grim discovery in a paddock.

A failed asylum seeker whose deportation was blocked when do-gooder cabin crew refused to fly him home has pleaded guilty to raping a 15-year-old girl.

IMAGES

Take The Scenic Route On This Texas State Railroad
5 Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas
5 Texas Day Trips You Can Take By Train
Everyone Must Take A Scenic Ride With The Texas State Railroad At Least
The Best 9 Train Rides In Texas
13 Amazing Train Rides In Texas (& Rail Museums, Too!)

COMMENTS

Texas Eagle
If you are ready to go deep into the heart of the South, the Texas Eagle will truly delight and amaze you from start to finish. Journeying from Chicago to San Antonio and then onwards to Los Angeles, it is the longest of Amtrak's routes and is not short on amazing highlights. As well as winding along the Mississippi River, through the Ozarks ...
5 Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas
Austin Steam Train Association - Central Texas. From first-class coach to excursion coach to first-class lounge to adult-only first-class ding cars and wheelchair-accessible cars, the Austin Steam Train Association has you covered. I can only imagine how much fun this ride would be, and to see the Texas Hill Country in a whole new way is thrilling.
Amtrak Texas Eagle: 12 Things You Need To Know Before Riding
Grounded Life Travel is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. List of everything we use in our travels. The Amtrak Texas Eagle is the longest train ride in the USA at 2,278 Miles. We've compiled […]
7 Best Train Rides in Texas
The Austin Steam Train offers several unique rides on its HZRX Diesel 3134 locomotive. It has four service classes along most of its routes, including excursion coach, first-class coach, first ...
The 7 Best Train Rides in Texas
The Zilker Eagle in Austin, Texas, The Zilker Eagle in Austin, Texas, is a delightful miniature train that carries on a tradition spanning over 60 years. Replacing the former Zilker Zephyr, the Zilker Eagle was brought back to life after a period of closure due to track damage caused by storms. This charming ride, which winds through the scenic ...
Texas By Train
Here are some great ways to both see Texas and travel to other parts of the country by rail! Texas Eagle. Daily service originating in Chicago & San Antonio. Tri-weekly service San Antonio to Los Angeles as the Texas Eagle connects with the Sunset Limited at the Alamo city three days a week. Daily Texas Eagle service includes to/from ...
Texas Train Tickets
In total, the state has 28 destinations reachable by train. For in-state travel, Amtrak Texas Eagle has the most coverage, with 15 routes connecting cities within Texas. Texas Trains. Train Routes Destinations; Amtrak: 609: 193: Amtrak Texas Eagle: 197: 37: Amtrak Sunset Limited: 59: 19:
5 Epic Train Rides In Texas
5 Epic Train Rides In Texas for an Amazing Experience 1. Palestine To Rusk Texas State Railroad. Step aboard a refurbished train car at the Texas State Railroad and feel like you have stepped back in time 100 years, where time slows down and tensions disappear. Relax and enjoy a 4-hour roundtrip train excursion from Palestine to Rusk and back, with vintage steam and diesel locomotives gliding ...
Explore Trains in and Around Texas by Touring Texas
Alvarado (just a few miles south of Ft. Worth) The CLMRR is Texas' Largest HO Model Railroad located at 3904 Vista Ridge Ln Alvarado TX 76009. The mainline is over 2400 feet long with over 6000 feet of track under one roof. The building size is 112 ft. long and 40 ft. wide.
Amtrak to Texas
Amtrak to Texas. Three Amtrak routes travel to Texas: Texas Eagle, Sunset Limited and Heartland Flyer. Trains stop in most major cities, including Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, El Paso and San Antonio. Learn more about planning a train trip to Texas below.
9 Scenic Train Rides In Texas, USA
5. San Antonio Zoo Eagle. An undoubtedly scenic train ride, in its very own way, the San Antonio Zoo Eagle is one of the features of San Antonio Zoo. Mostly suitable for kids (and their guardians), this epic train ride follows a brilliant route along the San Antonio River and goes through the most exciting parks.
5 Must-Do Scenic Train Rides in Texas
Based in Cedar Park, the Austin Steam Train Association is putting in work to preserve the experience of historic railroad travel and offer that experience to the public.. It all came together after this one steam locomotive, Southern Pacific No. 786, was retired from operation and donated to Austin in 1956, and then two decades later, Southern Pacific sold miles of track through the Hill ...
Amtrak Stations in Texas
Texas has almost 20 Amtrak stations and three Amtrak routes: Heartland Flyer, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle.You can travel regionally between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth on the Heartland Flyer, or reach many cities in Texas and far-away places such as Chicago, St. Louis, Los Angeles, Tucson and New Orleans via the other two routes. View the list of Texas Amtrak stations below to learn more.
Best Train Rides in Texas
The most popular is the Hill Country flyer. On this train ride, passengers can explore the vintage cars and enjoy amazing views of the Hill Country. The ride takes passengers on a 66 miles long, 6.5 hrs scenic journey to Burnet. The trip includes a two-hour layover before returning to its hometown of Austin.
Texas Railroads & Trains
The Texas State Railroad. On this 1920's passenger train, you get to see all that's great about East Texas as you travel from Rusk to Palestine and back. The refurbished cars provide a smooth, comfortable ride while maintaining a rustic, historic feel. You'll be transported to old Texas on this 25-mile (round trip) adventure.
Want to see more of Texas? Take the train.
The train is not a fast way to get where you're going, but it can be a very interesting one, filled with the stories of those who ride the rails because they love to, or because they don't have another choice. Texas Monthly reporter Sasha von Oldershausen wrote for the magazine about her experiences traveling to West Texas on the train.
Trains to Austin, TX
Based on customers travel reviews, travelers who booked on Wanderu rave about traveling to Austin by train with Amtrak giving them a 4.3 rating out of 5. Travelers also mentioned that Amtrak Texas Eagle had the most comfortable train service to Austin taking into account the seats and amenities that Amtrak Texas Eagle offers.
Home
About Texas State Railroad. Vintage steam and diesel locomotives take passengers across the celebrated rails of the Piney Woods Route between the quaint East Texas towns of Palestine and Rusk on a 50-mile roundtrip adventure. This quintessential day trip, only a few hours from the metropolitan communities of Dallas and Houston, will create a ...
Amtrak says Dallas-Houston bullet train could be built within 10 years
Published April 17, 2024 at 4:41 PM CDT. Shutterstock. The Shinkansen bullet train travels at speeds of up to 200 mph. Amtrak officials are holding an ambitious goal of getting the Dallas to ...
New York to Dallas Train
Monthly avg. prices. $400 $320 $240 $160 $80 M J J A S O N D J F M A. Ticket prices for the train from New York to Dallas often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $305. If you're thinking of traveling from New York to Dallas during October, keep in mind ...
Texas Poised to Get America's First Bullet Train
The rail link is expected to improve the Texas economy but could face several major hurdles. ... While one would take an estimated 90 minutes to travel between Dallas and Houston, the same journey ...
US, Japan signal support for Texas high-speed rail plan
The 240 mile (380 km) rail link, which will be built and operated by Texas Central Partners and Amtrak, is expected to cut travel times between the cities to about 90 minutes, from three-and-a ...
Amtrak is now driving Dallas to Houston bullet train proposal
Amtrak is officially in the conductor's seat for the proposal to build a high-speed train between Dallas and Houston. After a presentation at the Southwestern Rail Conference in Hurst, the man ...
Textravel
Lodging in state/out of state: up to $107. Meals in state/out of state: up to $59. In-State or Out-of-State Non-Overnight Meals. Not to exceed $36 daily. Automobile Mileage. 67 cents per mile (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31, 2024) Aircraft Mileage. $1.76 per mile (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31, 2024)
'Now's the time': Amtrak leader urges momentum on Dallas-to ...
The proposed train would shuttle passengers from Dallas to Houston in about 90 minutes compared to the three-and-a-half-hour car trip on Interstate 45. Texas Central Partners, developers of the ...
On everyone's mind at the Southwestern Rail Conference? The proposed
The proposed Texas bullet train. A Shinkansen bullet train like the one used in Japan could one day connect North Texas to Houston. High speed rail in Texas is big talk in a state ruled by cars ...
Texas Tech Wins Grant to Train Cybersecurity Workforce
April 15, 2024 •. Odessa American, Texas. (TNS) — Texas Tech University was among 18 recipients from across 15 states to receive a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce's National ...
SEPTA hits the brakes on double-decker train cars for regional rail
The transit company halted its $185 million project to implement double-decker train cars in its regional rail line system. "SEPTA has terminated its contract with CRRC MA for cause.
China brutally mocked over new train station design
Nanjing hosted a festival in February and March dedicated to them. The new North Nanjing station has been mocked globally for looking like a sanitary pad. Picture: Weibo. On Chinese social media ...
Snake on a bullet train causes rare railway delay in Japan
The breed of the snake is unknown, and a review is underway to determine how the snake got on board, the railway company told CNN. The bullet train, known as Shinkansen in Japan, is known for its ...

Adventure & travel are all about forging ahead, trying something new. Let’s Texas!

Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas

Book a seat on these scenic train rides in Texas through open spaces.

5 Top Scenic Train Rides In Texas

Texas State Railroad – East Texas

Special Events on the Texas State Railroad:

Grapevine Vintage Railroad – North Texas

Special Events on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad:

Historic Jefferson Railway – East Texas

Special Events on the Historic Jefferson Railway:

Austin Steam Train Association – Central Texas

Special Event on the Austin Steam Train:

Texas Eagle Train Amtrak

Texas Train Museums

About Kim Croisant

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

More From Our Authors

Ideas For Thanksgiving Week In Texas

Quaint Texas Hill Country Stays Where You Can Relax

Top Things To Do In Dallas In One Day

Texas Waterparks Open For The Season

22+ Fun Things to Do in New Braunfels

Top Attractions In The Texas Panhandle

Fort Worth Travel Guide

Top Things To Do In Port Aransas

(7) Girlfriend Weekend Trip In Texas

Discover Lakefront Cabins for Rent in Texas

Amtrak Texas Eagle: 12 Things You Need To Know Before Riding

Traditional dining on the Texas Eagle

Does the Texas Eagle have sleeping cars

What is the difference Between Texas Eagle 421 and Texas Eagle 21

Does the Texas Eagle run on time

Does the Texas Eagle have an observation car

Does the Texas Eagle have WiFi

How fast does the Texas Eagle go

Texas Eagle vs. Southwest Chief: which is better

Is the Texas Eagle Scenic

What is the Texas Eagle schedule

How much does the Texas Eagle cost

What Amtrak stations does the Texas Eagle go to

Robert Marmion

Everything We Use In Our Travels

Amtrak Vacation Itinerary: 12 Day United States Grand Loop Tour

Best Amtrak Trips From Baltimore

Best Amtrak Trips From Miami

Best Amtrak Trips From San Antonio

Best Amtrak Trips From Dallas

7 Best Train Rides in Texas — Vintage Cars and Scenic Views Included

Forest Park Miniature Railroad

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Zilker Eagle

Heartland Flyer

Texas State Railroad

Historic Jefferson Railway

Austin Steam Train

The 7 Best Train Rides in Texas — Vintage Cars and Scenic Views Included

Best Train Rides in Texas

Zilker Eagle

Forest Park Miniature Railroad

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Heartland Flyer

Historic Jefferson Railway

Austin Steam Train

Final Thoughts

Texas By Train

Want to go somewhere in Texas by train?

Texas Eagle

Heartland Flyer

Sunset Limited

Texas Rail Maps

Intercity Passenger Rail

TXDOT / TTI Maps

Urban / Regional Passenger Rail Maps

Cities / Towns Served

Urban, Regional and Corridor Rail Service

Where did trains take you in Texas in the past?

5 Epic Train Rides In Texas | For a Relaxed and Picturesque Journey

5 Epic Train Rides In Texas for an Amazing Experience

2. Cedar Park To Burnet

3. Grapevine To Fort Worth Stockyards