Best Train Journeys Around the World in Durham, North Carolina, United States

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Best Train Journeys Around the World in Durham, North Carolina, United States

1. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Enjoy a nostalgic trip aboard vintage train cars through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Experience breathtaking views and learn about local history.
  • Authentic Vintage Trains: Ride on restored historic trains from the 1940s and 1950s.
  • Scenic Mountain Views: Take in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains during your journey.
  • Local History Lessons: Learn about the rich history and culture of North Georgia on this trip.

2. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Journey through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains on this train ride, with stops at charming towns and breathtaking vistas.
  • Variety of Excursions: Choose from several different excursion options, including dinner trains and special events.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Spot local wildlife such as bears, deer, and elk during your train ride.
  • Historic Locations: Visit historic locations like the Murphy Depot and Fontana Tunnels along the way.

3. Tweetsie Railroad

A family-friendly theme park featuring train rides, amusement attractions, and live entertainment.
  • Theme Park Attractions: Enjoy a variety of amusement park attractions, including roller coasters and water rides.
  • Live Entertainment: Experience live shows featuring cowboys, outlaws, and old west-themed entertainment.
  • Souvenir Shopping: Pick up souvenirs at the numerous shops throughout the park.

4. Napa Valley Wine Train

A luxurious train ride through California's famous Napa Valley, featuring gourmet meals and wine tastings.
  • Gourmet Meals: Savor delicious meals prepared by renowned chefs on board the train.
  • Wine Tastings: Sample world-class wines from Napa Valley's top vineyards during your journey.
  • Scenic Landscapes: Take in the stunning landscapes and vineyards of California's Napa Valley.

5. Coast Starlight

Travel from Seattle to Los Angeles aboard Amtrak's Coast Starlight train, taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast.
  • Long-Distance Travel: Experience a long-distance train journey spanning from Seattle to Los Angeles.
  • Pacific Coast Scenery: Take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, redwood forests, and mountain ranges.
  • Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy comfortable accommodations, including sleeper cars for overnight trips.

6. Cape Cod Central Railroad

Take a scenic train ride through Cape Cod's picturesque villages and coastline.
  • Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns.
  • Historic Locations: Visit historic locations such as the Old Colony Railroad Museum and Hyannis Village.
  • Seasonal Excursions: Choose from seasonal excursions, including holiday-themed trains and scenic tours.

7. White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

Travel through the stunning wilderness of Alaska's White Pass on this historic train journey.
  • Alaskan Wilderness: Experience the rugged beauty and vast wilderness of Alaska.
  • Gold Rush History: Learn about the history of the Klondike Gold Rush and its impact on Skagway.
  • Mountain Scenery: Take in breathtaking views of the White Pass, Fraser Range, and the Coast Mountains.

8. Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Experience the majesty of Colorado's Royal Gorge on this scenic train ride.
  • Spectacular Scenery: Take in breathtaking views of the Royal Gorge, Arkansas River, and Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
  • Historic Locomotives: Ride aboard historic locomotives, including steam engines and vintage cars.
  • Special Events: Participate in special events such as murder mystery dinners and wine tastings.

10. Shenandoah Valley Train Tour

Travel through Virginia's picturesque Shenandoah Valley on this historic train journey.
  • Historic Railroad: Ride aboard the oldest operating railroad in North America.
  • Scenic Landscapes: Take in breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Massanutten Range.
  • Local Culture: Experience the local culture and history of towns along the route, such as Strasburg and Luray.

11. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

Travel through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains on this historic train ride.
  • Scenic Mountain Views: Take in stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, Rio Grande Gorge, and Colorado wilderness.
  • Historic Locomotives: Ride aboard historic locomotives, including steam engines and vintage cars.
  • Cross-Border Adventure: Travel across the border between Colorado and New Mexico on this unique adventure.

12. Santa Fe Southern Railway

Experience the charm of New Mexico's Santa Fe on this scenic train ride.
  • Southwestern Scenery: Take in breathtaking views of the high desert, Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and Pecos River.
  • Historic Railroad: Ride aboard a historic railroad that has been in operation since the late 1800s.
  • Southwestern Culture: Experience the unique culture and history of Santa Fe, including its Pueblo architecture and Native American art.

13. Missouri Pacific Railroad Museum

Explore the rich history of railroading at this museum in Durham, North Carolina.
  • Railroad History: Learn about the history of the Missouri Pacific Railroad and its impact on Durham.
  • Historic Locomotives: View historic locomotives, freight cars, and other railroad artifacts.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs and events throughout the year.

14. Charlotte Rail Trail

Enjoy a scenic bike ride on this former railroad line connecting Charlotte and Matthews, North Carolina.
  • Scenic Landscapes: Take in breathtaking views of the Piedmont region, including forests, fields, and creeks.
  • Recreational Activities: Engage in a variety of recreational activities such as biking, walking, and jogging.
  • Historical Sites: Visit historical sites along the trail, including the McDowell Nature Preserve and Historic Latta Plantation.

15. Piedmont & Western Railfan's Museum

Discover the history of railroading in Durham and North Carolina at this museum.
  • Railroad History: Learn about the history of railroads in Durham and the Piedmont region.
  • Historic Artifacts: View historic artifacts, including locomotives, freight cars, signals, and railroad memorabilia.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs and events throughout the year.