North Carolina Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Last revised: April 12, 2026
By: Adam Burns
North Carolina scenic train rides have a lot to offer even though the state is not traditionally known for such attractions. Two of the country's more well-known operations are located there, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad at Bryson City and Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock.
Their success can be largely attributed to two things; the beautiful and majestic Smoky Mountains, a region which enjoys more than 10 million visitors annually, and steam locomotives.
Both railroads utilize such and they always draw large crowds. In addition, don't miss the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer (which occasionally operates Bonsal Sand 0-6-0T #7 and displays several other steamers) and the New Hope Valley Railway at Bonsal (about 25 miles southwest of Raleigh). Finally, catch a trolley ride at Charlotte Trolley, which operates historic equipment for visitors and tourists (you can also ride the city's new "Lynx" light rail transit system).
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad 2-8-0 #1702 leads an excursion over the Fontana Lake Bridge along the Southern's former Murphy Branch on June 7, 1992. Jim Wrinn photo.State Rail History
North Carolina's railroad heritage begins in 1834 when the Wilmington & Raleigh Railroad (W&R;) was chartered by Wilmington's business elite to connect its namesake cities.
The year began with apprehension and disappointment when the state legislature declined a bond for the project in January. However, after promoters dropped this provision and instead moved towards a charter, the state gave the go-ahead.
Another issue cropped up when the citizens of Raleigh did not want the railroad accessing their town. To rectify this, officials decided to bypass the capital and reach Weldon where an interchange could be established with the Richmond & Petersburg. Construction of the W&R; began in October, 1836 and was completed only a few years later on March 7, 1840.
At a distance of 161.5 miles, it was then the world's longest railroad, even eclipsing the South Carolina Canal & Rail Road which had opened a 136-mile corridor between Charleston and Hamburg, South Carolina (directly across the Savannah River from Augusta) in October, 1833. In 1855 the W&R;'s name was changed to the Wilmington & Weldon (W&W;) to more accurately reflect the railroad's termini.
The W&W would go on to join the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, formed in 1900 through the merger of several smaller systems. There were five primary components of the original ACL.
Its earliest predecessor was the Petersburg Railroad, chartered in 1830. It opened for service a few years later between its home city and Garysburg, North Carolina, just across the Roanoke River from Weldon. At Petersburg, a connection was established with the Richmond & Petersburg, completed between its namesake cities in 1838.
Together, the two roads provided a direct route from Richmond to the Tarheel State. As the 1840s dawned more connections from the south extended through service into South Carolina and beyond, such as the previously mentioned Wilmington & Weldon.
During the industry's heyday, North Carolina boasted a wide range of railroading, from local short lines to coal trains in the western mountains (notably the Clinchfield Railroad). In addition, coastal operations could be found on the original Norfolk Southern at Elizabeth City and the ACL serving Wilmington.
While all of the state's railroad attractions are worth the visit, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a must see. It not only offers great scenery but guests also have the option of several different excursion packages, all in climate-controlled cars.
Freshly restored Norfolk & Western 4-8-4 #611 departs the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer during May of 2015. Dan Robie photo.Charlotte Trolley
One of the more unique scenic train rides in North Carolina can be found at the Charlotte Trolley which tells the history of Charlotte's former interurban operations. The trolley operates on the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, and current has two cars operational.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Without question, the most popular of all North Carolina train rides can be found at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City.
This attraction has been in operation since 1988 using tracks once owned by the venerable Southern Railway, which the company called its Murphy Branch. Train rides are hosted throughout much of the year although they also offer special events, such as "Thomas The Train" and holiday festivities.
New Hope Valley Railway
The New Hope Valley Railway, based in New Hill, hosts North Carolina train rides on trackage originally built by the New Hope Valley Railroad, which later part of the Seaboard Air Line system. They currently have a multitude of various diesel locomotive switchers they use to power their trains along with one operable 0-4-0T steam locomotive.
North Carolina Transportation Museum
The one place in the Tarheel State where both scenic train rides and a fabulous collection of preserved equipment can be experienced is at the North Carolina Transportation Museum. It is located in Spencer, situated on the former Southern Railway’s largest steam locomotive repair shops.
Today the museum sees tens of thousands annually and is housed in three of the former shop buildings (currently); the Bob Julian Roundhouse, the Flue Shop, and the Master Mechanics Shop.
As part of the museum they operate excursion trains on the museum grounds and is one of just two locations in the United States to feature the live steam locomotive version of Thomas the tank engine.
Amtrak's "Exhibit Train" is seen here on display at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in the spring of 2012. Dan Robie photo.Tweetsie Railroad
The Tweetsie Railroad, based in Blowing Rock, North Carolina has been operating since 1957 and utilizes a section of the historic East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (nicknamed the "Tweetsie," this classic narrow-gauge system once served both its namesake states).
If there are two North Carolina scenic train rides you should experience it is the Tweetsie and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Today, they use 3 miles of track to host trips, most often employing their, 4-6-0 "Ten wheeler", #12, to pull excursions.
Recent Articles
-
Northwestern Steel & Wire: 1936 - 2001
May 26, 26 10:52 PM
Northwestern Steel & Wire was a major steel manufacturer located in Sterling, Illinois operating from 1936-2001. It was also well known for its extensive industrial railroad, operating steam until 198… -
Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:32 PM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Georgia 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:22 PM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
New Hampshire Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:17 PM
Climb aboard Granite State Railway's Firecracker Trains—a patriotic, family-friendly fireworks spectacular rolling right through the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. -
Utah Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:14 PM
Every July, as America celebrates its birthday, the Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah, rolls out a special tradition: the Freedom Train. -
North Carolina "Wild West" Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:12 PM
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. -
Pennsylvania 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:00 PM
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. -
Maine "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:46 AM
This year for Father's Day, why not trade the conventional gifts and barbeque in for something exceptional—a scenic train ride across the beautiful state of Maine. -
Minnesota "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:43 AM
If you're in Minnesota and looking for a unique way to spend this day with your dad, consider taking a scenic train ride. -
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
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. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
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. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
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. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
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. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
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. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
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… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
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. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour…
