In the last thirty years thousands of railroad lines have been abandoned, but thanks to railroad preservationists and enthusiasts many have been saved and transformed into nostalgic adventures and fun for everyone. Railroading is becoming one of the fastest growing hobbies and tourism specialties. All around the country crowds are turning out for special "themed" excursions like fall foliage tours, dinner trains, ghost hunting, and even a chance to operate your own "loco". By far, the most popular excursion is the dinner train - relax and relive the golden days of railroad dining with an elegant, full-service full-course dinner on a 1920s era car. Tourist railroading is a fun and economical way to spend the day, as well as a learning experience for anyone who appreciates early 20th century locomotive craftsmanship - from steam to electric.
On FunTrainRides.com you'll find a hundred years of railroading history, from the first ice refrigerator car to early 20th century era electric trolleys, geared locomotives, rod-type, a 1907-built fast-freight locomotive to a 1951 diesel. Visit one of the largest collections of early 20th century electric trolley cars and ride over an original line segment from one of the oldest interurban electric railroads in Illinois. Young imaginations will light up at the sight of authentic large-scale model train layouts and vintage locomotive bells and whistles.
Rails reveal the story of our nation's progress from coast to coast. Learn how Railroads changed the face of America - in New Jersey walk an early 20th Century Railroad Yard compete with a water tank listed by the National Register of Historic Places; take a trip near Seattle to visit unique locomotives built for logging in the Pacific Northwest.
Enjoy a tranquil daydream as you sweep by pristine landscapes in a 1950s era passenger coach on your way to a delightful picnic, or traverse bold terrain over 156 ft. high bridges. Remember to wave to those river frolickers and paddlers and focus a keen eye to spot the wildlife on the way.
To envision your own place in railroad history, simply click on one of the U.S. regions listed on the left to explore all that tourist railroading has to offer.
