16 Railroad Towns with Vintage Depots and Weekend Rides
There is something magical about visiting towns where the past comes alive through the old railroad depots and vintage trains that still run today. These towns hold a special charm, with their historic depots serving as gateways to a different time, when steam engines and narrow tracks were the lifeblood of the community. Stepping aboard one of these vintage trains feels like a trip back in time, where the click-clack of the wheels and the whistle of the train create a nostalgic atmosphere. Whether you’re winding through rolling hills, scenic deserts, or lush forests, the ride offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the countryside.
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Williams, Arizona
Williams is a charming town located on the historic Route 66. Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” it also boasts a vintage train depot that serves as the starting point for the Grand Canyon Railway. The town’s depot offers an immersive experience for visitors, complete with its classic wooden architecture and old-fashioned ticket booths. The Grand Canyon Railway offers weekend rides that take passengers on a scenic route through the Arizona desert, all the way to the Grand Canyon.
The ride itself is a nostalgic experience with old steam engines, passenger cars reminiscent of the early 20th century, and live entertainment onboard. Once in Williams, visitors can explore the small-town charm, with local diners, antique shops, and Route 66 memorabilia that keep the vintage spirit alive. The surrounding area is perfect for outdoor adventures, including hiking, and the town frequently holds seasonal events like the famous Route 66 car show.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is a town that perfectly blends the allure of the Old West with modern-day conveniences. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the most famous in the country, offering weekend rides that leave from the town’s vintage depot. The depot itself is a beautiful structure that retains its historic charm, having been in use since 1881. The steam-powered train ride travels through the rugged San Juan Mountains, offering stunning views of valleys, rivers, and forests.
As the train chugs along, passengers are treated to live narration and stories about the area’s rich mining history. Durango itself is an idyllic town with a historic district filled with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and restaurants. The town’s deep connection to its railroad history is visible in many of its attractions, including the train museum and the historic district, making it a perfect place for history buffs.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a city that stands out for its Pueblo-style architecture and its rich artistic heritage. Its vintage railroad depot is an important piece of the city’s history, dating back to 1880. The Santa Fe Depot remains a functioning hub for the Rail Runner Express, but it also serves as a reminder of the town’s historical connection to the railroad. Weekend rides on the Rail Runner offer a scenic trip through New Mexico’s striking desert landscape, with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande.
Santa Fe’s depot has been well-preserved, featuring its iconic tile roof and large arches, and remains a popular spot for tourists interested in both railroads and history. Visitors can also explore Santa Fe’s rich art scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and festivals throughout the year. The town offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day cultural vibrancy, with railroad rides adding an extra layer of nostalgia.
Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson, the capital of Mississippi, is home to the Old Depot, which has been beautifully preserved. The Jackson Train Station, dating back to the early 20th century, stands as a monument to the city’s early railroad history. The weekend rides on the Mississippi’s Central Railroad give passengers a unique opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside. These vintage trains provide a relaxing, slow-paced journey that offers panoramic views of the region’s natural beauty.
Jackson’s depot is a focal point in the city’s revitalization, serving as a cultural hub for events and festivals. The town’s historic district is home to antebellum homes, museums, and a collection of local shops and eateries that offer a glimpse into the South’s rich history. Jackson also has an impressive music scene, with blues and gospel music playing a key role in its cultural identity.
New Hope, Pennsylvania
New Hope is a picturesque town nestled along the Delaware River, known for its arts scene and charming downtown area. The New Hope Railroad, operating out of the historic New Hope depot, offers visitors an authentic experience with its vintage steam trains. These weekend rides take passengers along the river, offering spectacular views of the countryside and the tranquil riverbanks. The New Hope Railroad is one of the oldest continually operating railroads in the United States, making it a great destination for history enthusiasts.
The depot itself is a gem, featuring classic wooden beams and a quaint design that transports visitors back in time. New Hope is also known for its vibrant arts community, with art galleries and unique boutiques lining the streets. Visitors can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery, with the vintage railroad serving as an unforgettable centerpiece.
Chama, New Mexico
Chama is a small town that captures the essence of New Mexico’s rich railroad history. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is one of the most popular attractions, offering weekend rides through the beautiful San Juan Mountains. The Chama depot is a historical landmark, originally built in the late 19th century, and serves as a base for the vintage steam trains. The ride offers stunning views of alpine forests, meadows, and streams as the train climbs to higher elevations.
The town itself is a quaint and quiet place, perfect for a weekend getaway, with its old Western charm and proximity to outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the surrounding area’s hiking trails and take in the peaceful ambiance of the mountains. Chama is also famous for its wildlife, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Big Timber, Montana
Big Timber, a town in southwestern Montana, offers visitors a chance to experience a historic railroad ride through some of the most beautiful parts of the state. The town’s vintage depot serves as a launching point for the historic Yellowstone Gateway Railroad, which operates weekend train rides through the Yellowstone River Valley. The train travels through scenic landscapes, including vast plains and snow-capped mountain ranges.
The depot itself is a stunning example of early 20th-century railway architecture, with its wooden structure and detailed design. Big Timber is known for its small-town charm and its outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and camping. Visitors can also explore the nearby Crazy Mountains, which offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The combination of scenic train rides and Montana’s natural beauty makes Big Timber a must-visit destination.
West Yellowstone, Montana
West Yellowstone is a town that attracts visitors year-round, but it truly shines during the summer months when its vintage railroad rides come alive. The town is home to the West Yellowstone Depot, a historic building that dates back to the early 1900s. The depot serves as the starting point for several scenic train rides that take passengers through the surrounding forests and mountains.
The rides are a perfect way to see the beauty of the Yellowstone region, with the added charm of vintage steam engines pulling the trains. West Yellowstone is also the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, so visitors can enjoy a mix of railroad history and outdoor adventures. The town itself offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby national park. The vintage trains give visitors a nostalgic way to experience the area’s stunning natural beauty.
Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish is a resort town located in the northern Rocky Mountains, offering both winter sports and scenic summer experiences. The town’s vintage depot is home to the Glacier Park Railway, which offers weekend rides that take passengers on a tour through the stunning landscapes of the Flathead Valley. The historic depot is a beautiful example of early railroad architecture, and it serves as a reminder of the town’s connection to the railroad industry.
The train ride provides views of lush forests, sparkling lakes, and the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains. Whitefish itself is a charming town with a vibrant arts community, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. The town is also known for its proximity to Glacier National Park, making it a perfect stop for those looking to explore the area’s natural wonders. The vintage railroad experience in Whitefish offers a relaxing and nostalgic way to enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Barstow, California
Barstow is a desert town in Southern California known for its rich railroad history. The town’s Harvey House Depot, dating back to the early 20th century, is a charming structure that continues to serve as a vital piece of the town’s transportation history. Barstow is strategically located at the crossroads of several major rail lines, making it a hub for both freight and passenger trains. Visitors can enjoy weekend rides on the historic trains that still operate in the area, offering scenic trips through the Mojave Desert.
The depot is home to the Route 66 Railroad Museum, which showcases the town’s pivotal role in the expansion of the American railroad network. Barstow itself offers a variety of attractions, including historical sites, local shops, and restaurants. The town’s vintage railroad rides provide a great way to experience the desert landscape while learning about the area’s historical significance.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a quaint town known for its Victorian architecture and its connection to the railroad era. The Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway offers weekend train rides that depart from the town’s vintage depot. The depot, which has been carefully preserved, serves as a reminder of the area’s importance during the railroad’s heyday. The train ride takes passengers through the Ozark Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the forested hills and valleys.
Eureka Springs is also known for its natural springs, which were historically believed to have healing properties, and the town remains a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. The charming downtown area is filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a combination of scenic railroad rides and the rich history of this enchanting town.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a vibrant town located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its arts scene and scenic beauty. The town’s vintage depot, once an important stop along the Southern Railway, has been beautifully preserved and is now a popular spot for visitors. The historic depot is home to the Asheville Trolley Company, which offers weekend rides around the town, showcasing Asheville’s historical landmarks, architecture, and natural beauty.
While Asheville is no longer a major railroad hub, the depot still holds a special place in the town’s history. The town itself is known for its thriving arts community, excellent restaurants, and breweries. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the best views in the country, and visitors can easily access hiking trails, waterfalls, and other outdoor attractions. Asheville’s vintage depot is a perfect starting point for a weekend exploration of this dynamic and scenic region.
Reno, Nevada
Reno, known as the “Biggest Little City in the World,” is a vibrant town that blends modern amenities with historic charm. The Reno Depot, a striking building with a classic railroad design, is an important landmark in the town’s history. Once a vital stop for the Southern Pacific Railroad, the depot is now home to the Nevada Railroad Museum, which showcases the region’s rich railroad history. Reno’s historic train rides offer visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Truckee Meadows, as well as the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The depot is a popular starting point for the V&T Railway, which takes passengers on a scenic route through the surrounding valleys. Reno itself offers a range of attractions, including casinos, museums, and outdoor activities. The town is also a gateway to Lake Tahoe and other nearby natural wonders, making it a great destination for both railroad enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Union, Illinois
Union, a small town located about an hour outside of Chicago, is home to the historic Fox River Trolley Museum. The Union Depot, with its quaint and classic design, is the starting point for vintage trolley rides that travel along the Fox River. The museum operates several restored trolley cars from the early 20th century, offering visitors a chance to experience what travel was like during the golden age of trolleys.
The scenic route along the river is particularly beautiful in the fall when the surrounding trees change colors. The town of Union itself is small and peaceful, offering a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city. Visitors can explore the local shops, enjoy the town’s parks, and take in the historic charm of the area. The Fox River Trolley Museum is a great stop for anyone interested in learning about the region’s transportation history.
Columbia, California
Columbia is a historic Gold Rush town located in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The town’s vintage depot, part of the Columbia State Historic Park, is a testament to the area’s connection to the railroad era. The depot is home to the Sierra Railway, which operates weekend rides that take passengers through the beautiful foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The train ride is a nostalgic trip through a landscape filled with tall pine trees, rolling hills, and historic mining sites.
Columbia itself is a living history museum, with well-preserved buildings, shops, and restaurants that reflect the town’s 19th-century past. The town offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like during the California Gold Rush. Columbia is also known for its gold panning opportunities and its seasonal events, such as the famous Columbia Civil War Days reenactment.
Galveston, Texas
Galveston is a coastal town that combines southern charm with a rich history. The town’s historic depot, the Galveston Railroad Museum, is housed in the original Southern Pacific Depot, built in the early 1900s. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including restored locomotives and vintage railroad cars. The town offers weekend rides along the Gulf Coast, where visitors can experience the beauty of the coastline while learning about the area’s railroad history.
Galveston itself is a popular vacation spot, known for its beaches, historic districts, and beautiful Victorian-era homes. The town is also home to several museums, including the Texas Seaport Museum and the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum. Galveston’s combination of historical charm and scenic railroad rides make it an ideal destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.