1. Home
  2.  ›
  3. Diesel Locomotives
  4.  ›
  5. Electro-Motive

Electro-Motive Diesel: Locomotives, History, Photos

Last revised: February 22, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Electro-Motive Diesel, formerly a division of Progress Rail (owned by Caterpillar), has a history dating back to the early 20th century.

EMD originally began as the Electro-Motive Corporation, a privately owned company being based out of Cleveland, Ohio that built inexpensive motorcars beginning in 1922.

With the purchase of the company in 1930 by General Motors, and more resources at its disposal the company began developing the precursor of the modern-day diesel-electric road unit (cabs and road-switchers), the streamlined trainset, which consisted of a powered car permanently attached to a few coaches (usually two or three cars). 

The most famous of these streamlined trainsets was the Burlington Zephyrs, a beautiful streamlined stainless steel creation (originally powered by Winton engines, which would also become a subsidiary of GM) that was extremely lightweight and fast. 

The original trainset, the Zephyr 9900, made headlines in 1934 when it completed a non-stop journey from Denver to Chicago in a little over 13 hours. 

Electro-Motive continues to produce locomotives today but in name only; the company is now a division of Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company.

Photos

9823481274612541724871825872159823698.jpgPart of the original FT demonstrator trainset #103 was featured at Electro-Motive's La Grange, Illinois plant during an open house ceremony in September of 1989. Brian Rackley photo.

History

However, before this development and new technology was introduced, EMC had already become part of General Motors, having been purchased by the company in 1930 and branded GM's Electro-Motive Division, a name it would hold for 75 years. 

Because the power cars with these trainsets were permanently attached to the coaches EMD sought to design a locomotive free of this articulated setup but designed in such a manner that a railroad could still attach it to any passenger train and obtain the same, smooth streamlined look.

This it did with the unveiling of the EA model in 1937, the first in a long line of passenger diesel locomotive designs that would come to be known as the E series. 

Not surprisingly, soon after the EA unveiling the company decided to take things a step further and develop the first true diesel road unit, capable of pulling long freights in main line service.  

Recently delivered Colorado & Southern (Burlington) SD40s, #884 and #885, look sharp in their Chinese Red livery at Rice Yard in Denver, Colorado during April of 1968. American-Rails.com collection.

In 1939 it introduced the FT model (perhaps the key difference between the E and F series was that Fs rode on B-B trucks whereas Es rode on C-Cs and carried a noticeably longer carbody), the first in EMD’s F series and one of the most success diesel-electric designs of all time.

The F series would go on to define American railroading for years and you can still see it in regular use today, over 60 years after it first debuted!

1724187261258971872187529817968667.jpgIn 1947, General Motors commissioned Pullman to create four domes for a publicity train called the "Train Of Tomorrow" to highlight post-war rail travel advancements. The train toured the country and was later acquired by Union Pacific. Of the original cars, only the "Moon Glow" lounge survives today; the rest were scrapped in the 1960s, and the associated locomotive was traded in 1963.

At A Glance

Genesis
Electro-Motive Engineering Corporation (August 31, 1922)*
General Motors Acquisition
December 31, 1930**
Original Headquarters
Cleveland, Ohio
GM Headquarters
La Grange, Illinois
Primary Manufacturing Facility (GM)
McCook/La Grange, Illinois (1936 - 1988***)
Modern Manufacturing Facility (Progress Rail)
Muncie, Indiana (2011 - Present)
Canadian Subsidiary (London, Ontario)

General Motors Diesel, Ltd. (1950 – 1969)

General Motors Diesel Division, Ltd. (1969 – 2005)

Electro-Motive Diesel (2005 - June 23, 2012)

Most Important Model
FT
Operational History
1922 - 2016****
Most Successful Model
SD40-2 (3,982 units)
Other Notable Facilities

Plant #2: Chicago's South Side (1946 - 1989)

Plant #3: Cleveland, Ohio (1948 - 1954)

Notable Contractors

Supplier Steel Schenectady, Inc. (Glenville, New York

Bombardier-Concarril (Sahagún, Mexico)

Conrail's Juanita Shops (Altoona, Pennsylvania)

Alstom Transport (Hornell, New York)

Alstom Transport (Pointe St. Charles Shops/Montreal, Quebec)

Canadian Pacific's Ogden Shops (Calgary, Alberta)

ITS Rail Services (Welland, Ontario)

VMV/ITS Rail Services (Paducah, Kentucky)

CEECO (Tacoma, Washington)

Mid-America Car (Kansas City)

Successor
Caterpillar/Progress Rail (2010)

*  Soon after renamed as the Electro-Motive Company.

** Renamed as the Electro-Motive Corporation.  GM also acquired the Winton Engine Company on June 20, 1930.  It was subsequently renamed as the Winton Engine Corporation.

*** The final locomotive produced at La Grange rolled off the shop floor in December, 1992; Metra F40PHM-2 #214.

**** As separate corporate entity.  The EMD name is still used by Progress Rail for marketing purposes.

The FT (which stood for Freight, Twenty-seven hundred horsepower) was a superb locomotive and although its 2,700 horsepower came from an A-B setup of a cab (A) and booster (B) units rated at 1,350 horsepower each.

It was quickly loved by many for the efficiencies it held over steam such as its ruggedness and ease of maintenance. 

The FT was a serious locomotive and although its 2,700 horsepower came from an A-B setup of cab (A) and booster (B) units rated at 1,350 horsepower each it would become embraced by the rail industry for the efficiencies it held over steam power as well as being rugged and easy to maintain.

Santa Fe SD39u #1559 at San Bernardino, California; October 22, 1985. American-Rails.com collection.

Following the success of its cab units, EMD realized that there was a market to be made in the road-switchers, which at the time was mostly dominated by Alco with its RS series.

Its first attempt at this type of locomotive, which gave the train crews both excellent vision all around the locomotive for switching and local service as well as enough horsepower to be used in main line operations, was the BL2.

Although unsuccessful from a sales standpoint the BL2 was really a mere stepping-stone for its next model, the GP series (meaning General Purpose).  

The BL2 was certainly unmistakable with its longer nose and recessed carbody, which allowed the cab to be much more “open” and train crews could see behind the locomotive as well as to the front.

Union Pacific SD60M #6286 and SD60 #6021 lead covered autoracks eastbound over Norfolk Southern at Swanton, Ohio in January, 1996. American-Rails.com collection.

Built only between 1948 and 1949, the model came in the standard GP configuration of four-axles and it carried 1,500 horsepower. A total of 59 BL2s were built, naturally making them very rare today!

The first of the GP series was the four-axle, GP7, which began production in 1949. Still commonly found today on several regionals and short lines the GP7 is the classic image of the road switcher with its high, short hood and cab set off to one end leaving for a long hood trailing.

The model was most commonly built with the high hood but some requested a lowered version in the later standard cab design, which included front windshields (GP7s would also be rebuilt with shortened hoods).

85023842734623642657268939878.jpgMissouri-Kansas-Texas ("Katy") GP7 #123 was seen here at the road's shops in Parsons, Kansas, circa 1968. American-Rails.com collection.

Through 1954 the model sold an astounding 2,600+ units and is widely credited with completing main line dieselization, relegating most remaining steam locomotives to branch line, yard and short line work. 

Following the GP7 was the GP9, which saw an increase of 250 horsepower from 1,500 to 1,750. The model also blew away the GP7's staggering sales numbers, selling more than 6,000 units.

Aside from the model's increased horsepower perhaps it's biggest improvement over the GP7 was the addition of dynamic brakes.

By the 1950s EMD was the unquestionable leader of diesel locomotive manufacturing, making up the vast majority of all diesel sales during that time.

The company originally introduced a six-axle model of its popular GP series a few years after the GP7, in 1952. Known as the SD7 ("SD" stood for Special Duty), high-hooded models were standard through the following SD9 and SD18 but these three types never sold nearly as well as their four-axled brethren. 

However, that would change with the second-generation power as EMD's SD24 and subsequent models far outsold their four-axle counterparts.  

This was especially true when the company debuted its SD40 series. Along with its "Dash 2" sister the SD40 series have become icons, even in their own time!

So successful was the series that one can spot them virtually any place on practically any given train (Class Is included), even today, over 20 years after the last SD40-2 rolled off of the assembly line! 

The SD40 series began production in 1966 with the SD40, which was built through 1972 and ended production in 1986 when the last SD40-2 rolled off of the assembly line.

By the time production ended an astronomical 5,200+ units had been built! Most of these were SD40-2s as just under 4,000 were produced during its fourteen years of production while the SD40 chipped in another 1,200+.

29602963845734728826728028708307408.jpgElectro-Motive's test train, consisting of F9A #462, SDP40F #169, and an SD50 demonstrator are southbound on the Burlington Northern just south of Trinidad, Colorado in 1985. Mike Bledsoe photo. American-Rails.com collection.

When the series debuted it was just what railroads were after. Looking for a more powerful, reliable and gritty locomotive that could be counted on to work properly in almost any type of weather conditions the SD40 and SD40-2 were it.

Rated at 3,000 hp, equipped with EMD’s standard cab design, and a C-C layout (meaning they had six axles) the units carried their builder’s 16-cylinder 645E3 diesel engine and high-traction truck.

Extremely reliable the prime mover was loved by maintenance and shop crews and even many engineers have said the locomotive itself is a joy to operate as it experiences very little problems when in service. 

This reliability, ruggedness, and ease of maintenance have been so fantastic with the SD40 series that the units continue to not only remain in common use on Class Is but also the big carriers have liked them so well that many are rebuilding the locomotives to keep them in active service for years to come!

Burlington Northern Santa Fe SD70MAC #9996 is tied down in Oregon, Ohio on the Norfolk Southern in the winter of 1999. American-Rails.com collection.

However, following the SD40 series EMD's tight grip as the number one manufacturer began to loosen.

General Electric, which had entered the market in the 1950s with its Universal series, following its breakup with Alco (before this the two companies had worked together building diesels), had slowly been gaining market share.

When EMD introduced its trouble-prone SD50 in 1980 it was already receiving increased competition from GE, who had already put Alco out of business more than a decade earlier, and the SD50 fallout only made things worse.  

By the mid-1980s GE had taken over the number one spot and has retained it ever since. However, EMD found its footing again with its SD70 and SD80 models.

The SD70ACe became the builder's primary road-switcher model for domestic customers in 2004/2005 as  a low-emissions, high-horsepower main line locomotive.  

29698236726387267389370989.jpgOne of the Katy's recently delivered GP40's, #213, at the railroad's terminal in Parsons, Kansas; December, 1969. American-Rails.com collection.

It sold well for a decade, meeting EPA's Tier II and Tier III standards.  One of EMD's biggest changes occurred when the company was spun-off by General Motors in April, 2005.  Afterwards the company, renamed as Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc., remained independent for a few years, owned by Greenbriar Equity Group LLC, Berkshire Partners LLC, and a few other investment firms.  

It was then acquired by Caterpillar in 2010. Perhaps its biggest selling feature was the HTCR Radial trucks, which steer into curves instead of simply following the track. They greatly reduce wear to both locomotive and rail.  

As the EPA increased its regulations on ever-cleaner diesel emissions it seemed the SD70ACe and its 710 prime mover were safe as the engine met later Tier III standards.  

However, when Tier IV standards went into effect on January 1, 2015 Caterpillar/Progress Rail was unable to make the prime mover compliant and it appears there is no way to do so according to Bill Badurksi, a former EMD employee in his article "Closing A Chapter In History," from the January, 2015 issue of Trains Magazine

Rio Grande SW1200 #130 carries out switching chores in Denver, Colorado circa 1975. Robert Eastwood, Jr. photo. American-Rails.com collection.

During October of 2015, Progress Rail finally unveiled a competitor to General Electric which met Tier IV standards.  Known as the SD70ACe-T4 this locomotive was presented to the public during the Railway Interchange tradeshow at BNSF’s Northtown Yard in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  

It features a completely new engine, the 1010 model that can produce 4,400 horsepower via 12-cylinders (four-stroke).  This new prime mover replaced all of the earlier EMD designs dating back to the General Electric, which included the 567, 645 and 710 series.  

The new model is currently undergoing testing and it is hoped will finally offer serious competition to GE's dominance in the market over the last several decades.  

In a surprising move, during the late summer of 2016 Progress Rail announced its intentions to permanently dissolve the Electro-Motive name as a business entity.

Electro-Motive's newest model, the SD70ACe-T4, unveiled in October of 2015.

Progress Rail Locomotive Inc.

It was announced that as of September 1, 2016 the Electro-Motive Diesel name would be removed from Progress Rail's corporate holdings according to a Trains Newswire article dated August 31, 2016.  Officially, the company noted the following changes would be carried out:

  • Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc. became Progress Rail Locomotive Inc. 
  • Electro-Motive Canada Company became Progress Rail Locomotive Canada Co. 
  • Electro-Motive Diesel International Corporation became Progress Rail Locomotive International Corporation.

The formal removal of the EMD corporate name means that after nearly a century of building rail cars and locomotives the legendary builder will cease to exist as a business entity.  

During its time in the business, EMD nearly single-handedly ceased the reign of steam, unveiled countless classics, conceived dozens of famous liveries, and saved the industry millions annually in direct and indirect maintenance costs.

It will continue to exist only as a branding name for Progress Rail's new locomotive models.

Sources

  • Marre, Louis A. and Pinkepank, Jerry A. Contemporary Diesel Spotter's Guide, The: A Comprehensive Reference Manual To Locomotives Since 1972.  Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1989.
  • Marre, Louis A. Diesel Locomotives: The First 50 Years, A Guide To Diesels Built Before 1972.  Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1995.
  • McDonnell, Greg. Locomotives: The Modern Diesel & Electric Reference, 2nd Edition. Buffalo: Boston Mills Press/Firefly Books, 2015.
  • Pinkepank, Jerry A. Diesel Spotter's Guide.  Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1967.Pinkepank, Jerry A. and Marre, Louis A. 
  • Diesel Spotter's Guide Update: Including Electrics And Lightweight-Train Power Cars.  Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1979.
  • Schafer, Mike. Vintage Diesel Locomotives. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 1998.
  • Solomon, Brian.  EMD Locomotives.  Minneapolis: MBI Publishing Company, 2006.
  • Solomon, Brian.  Electro-Motive E-Units and F-Units: The Illustrated History of North America's Favorite Locomotives.  Minneapolis:  Voyageur Press, 2011.
  • Solomon, Brian.  GE and EMD Locomotives:  The Illustrated History.  Minneapolis:  Voyageur Press, 2014.

Recent Articles

  1. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026

    Jul 16, 26 04:43 PM

    53244152259_7b6dc78525_k.jpg
    The Southwest Chief is one of Amtrak’s classic long-distance trains and one of the best ways to experience the American West by rail.

    Read More

  2. U.S. Rail Traffic Shows Continued Strength in Week 27 Of 2026

    Jul 16, 26 11:52 AM

    55394045111_76069f336f_k.jpg
    The Association of American Railroads (AAR) released its weekly rail traffic report on July 15, 2026, covering data for the week ending July 11, 2026 (Week 27).

    Read More

  3. DL&W's Tavern-Lounge Observation Cars

    Jul 15, 26 10:06 PM

    1284716825853926398666.jpg
    The tavern-lounge-observation cars on the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad’s (DL&W) Phoebe Snow were signature tail-end cars (numbered 789 and 790), not built by Pullman but by the Budd Company…

    Read More

  4. B&O Railroad Museum Rebrands

    Jul 15, 26 03:23 PM

    8712482136237582309690.jpg
    The historic B&O Railroad Museum, long celebrated as a cornerstone of American railroad heritage, announced on July 14, 2026, that it is changing its name to the National Museum of Railroad History…

    Read More

  5. Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026

    Jul 15, 26 12:56 PM

    9127478128125879680777.jpg
    Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Route overview, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding this iconic long-distance train through the northern United States.

    Read More

  6. Washington ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 11:39 AM

    5983265112_3688b74245_o.jpg
    Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington.

    Read More

  7. Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 11:37 AM

    12481724812487192891555.jpg
    Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail.

    Read More

  8. Best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Across the United States 2026

    Jul 15, 26 11:04 AM

    129712784728358369037-77.jpg
    Discover the best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US for 2026. Top locations, what to expect, dates, and tips for this magical holiday experience based on the beloved story.

    Read More

  9. Indiana ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 09:20 AM

    98qw754174175782689387998.jpg
    This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

    Read More

  10. Ohio ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 09:14 AM

    54064480208_2c1c4efe08_k.jpg
    The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes.

    Read More

  11. Arizona ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 09:06 AM

    5823206833_9100f0381d_o.jpg
    Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway.

    Read More

  12. Michigan ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 15, 26 08:49 AM

    761246142512879712631527815966.jpg
    While the term 'wild west' often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history.

    Read More

  13. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026

    Jul 14, 26 02:24 PM

    34288305332_72e17ee06e_k.jpg
    Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight. Route highlights, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding one of America’s most beautiful long-distance trains.

    Read More

  14. Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026

    Jul 14, 26 01:21 PM

    917248126721538279568966.jpg
    Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips.

    Read More

  15. Indiana - Beer Tasting - Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 12:34 PM

    982134721561258960078.jpg
    On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway.

    Read More

  16. Wisconsin ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 12:10 PM

    531388850_18407930308118711_3245345212765650427_n.jpg
    Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  17. Georgia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 11:46 AM

    12i4712845151292186590268797097877.jpg
    Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West.

    Read More

  18. Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 11:34 AM

    231284612783589236.jpg
    Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards.

    Read More

  19. Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 10:05 AM

    53474493464_f5bdf5bc27_k.jpg
    This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas.

    Read More

  20. New Mexico ~ Wine Tasting ~Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 09:26 AM

    1827316425231872689709907908.jpg
    For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style.

    Read More

  21. Tennessee ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 09:10 AM

    8676443234543254657.jpg
    Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue.

    Read More

  22. California ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 14, 26 09:01 AM

    9753dxw454766754w3qds54465.jpg
    When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…

    Read More

  23. North Carolina ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:49 PM

    29812874312412586987898.jpg
    North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  24. Pennsylvania ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:45 PM

    98ge43234656u7ugf2345.jpg
    The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride.

    Read More

  25. New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:40 PM

    53034630924_ab314fd817_k.jpg
    This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati…

    Read More

  26. Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:35 PM

    18243612451767896126.jpg
    In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados.

    Read More

  27. Illinois ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:32 PM

    14180316949_0e9a4fafa4_o.jpg
    Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion.

    Read More

  28. Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 13, 26 01:28 PM

    8237425354235427872689297.jpg
    There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip!

    Read More

  29. The Flying Scotsman’s American Adventure: LNER 4472’s U.S. Tour

    Jul 13, 26 12:02 PM

    71631265612537892658966.jpg
    In the fall of 1969, a gleaming British steam locomotive unlike anything most Americans had ever seen rolled into Boston and spent the next four years touring the U.S.

    Read More

  30. Amtrak's California Zephyr – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026

    Jul 12, 26 01:04 PM

    917238132872175328539825689609867.jpg
    Explore Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of America’s most scenic long-distance train routes. Complete 2026 guide with highlights, best times to ride, what to expect, photography tips, and fall foliage…

    Read More

  31. Alabama ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 12:25 PM

    092834273412564512547658767.jpg
    Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round.

    Read More

  32. Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 12:22 PM

    1726316523512361481786566.jpg
    In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure.

    Read More

  33. South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 12:04 PM

    25378396769_5ee5ad8c84_k.jpg
    For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad.

    Read More

  34. New Mexico ~ Murder Mystery ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 11:41 AM

    9875422q2rtrtr4e6t65r.jpg
    Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails.

    Read More

  35. Michigan ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 11:36 AM

    12i47127634123561258712378287896893789.jpg
    Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration.

    Read More

  36. Best Christmas and Holiday Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026

    Jul 12, 26 11:05 AM

    1238213875273572365326477.jpg
    Discover the best Christmas and holiday train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026, including Polar Express experiences, Santa trains, and festive scenic journeys. Plan your magical rail adventure this…

    Read More

  37. New York ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 09:53 AM

    55067982572_ac1973f6cf_k.jpg
    Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era.

    Read More

  38. Ohio ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 12, 26 09:38 AM

    09643xre435676890b678.jpg
    For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty.

    Read More

  39. Western Pacific's 4-6-6-4 "Challengers" (M-100)

    Jul 11, 26 11:29 PM

    29832356725863897099079047890890.jpg
    In the late 1930s, the Western Pacific stood at a crossroads. Traffic volumes were recovering from the Great Depression, and the railroad needed more powerful, faster locomotives to move longer freigh…

    Read More

  40. Cass Scenic Railroad Fall Foliage Trips 2026 – Complete Guide

    Jul 11, 26 04:28 PM

    917247124178259826907.jpg
    Plan your 2026 fall foliage trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad. Complete guide to the Bald Knob route, schedules, what to expect, photography tips, and why this West Virginia steam train ride is one of…

    Read More

  41. Best Fall Foliage Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern United States 2026

    Jul 11, 26 03:16 PM

    52428412650_2f09eeebe0_b.jpg
    Discover the best fall foliage train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From steam-powered mountain climbs in West Virginia to scenic heritage railroads across the Appalachians and beyond — plan your…

    Read More

  42. Missouri ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 11:27 AM

    917231623465124512865798689078.jpg
    In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  43. Indiana ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 11:17 AM

    912831755451261859828976677.jpg
    Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides.

    Read More

  44. North Carolina ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 11:05 AM

    98237123141425128766.jpg
    One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal.

    Read More

  45. West Virginia ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 10:45 AM

    182746126415624563827892687.jpg
    West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains.

    Read More

  46. Utah ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 10:42 AM

    483065061_1043090677854796_6203365029670081509_n.jpg
    Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains.

    Read More

  47. Virginia ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 10:12 AM

    679569bv3442q354789675.jpg
    Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel.

    Read More

  48. Maryland ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Jul 11, 26 10:02 AM

    91724176524124615878926908707.jpg
    Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains?

    Read More

  49. U.S. Rail Traffic Surges 8.7% in Holiday Week Ending July 4, 2026

    Jul 10, 26 03:39 PM

    55134832078_0f768a2e91_k.jpg
    Despite the Independence Day holiday (which fell on a Saturday), U.S. freight railroads delivered an impressive performance, posting an 8.7% year-over-year increase in total traffic

    Read More

  50. APSL Nears Acquisition Of B&O Depot In Paw Paw, WV

    Jul 10, 26 11:44 AM

    97823487621365278369837897.jpg
    After decades of quiet abandonment, a dedicated preservation effort by the Allegany Preservation Society Limited (APSL) is racing to secure its future— having already raised approximately 90 percent o…

    Read More