It is a fast-paced world and, at times, we all need an activity that can give some simple pleasure. In case you want to take it slow and appreciate the scenic beauty around you, how about taking a picturesque and special rail ride through the state of Indiana? After all, there is something nostalgic about riding a train. A train ride can captivate the imagination of its passengers and remind them of simpler and happier times. So, how about planning a train trip soon with your family and enjoy some quality time with them? Go ahead. Book that trip and choose among the best camper rentals and bed and breakfasts in Indiana for your accommodations. Have a great time in the company of your loved ones and check out some of the most scenic train rides in Indiana.
Popular railway museums in Indiana
Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum: This museum is unlike any other and allows visitors to take a ride in its exhibits. You read that right! Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum offers rides on steam and diesel locomotives, and they even offer special themed excursions as well! I’d think the Santa Train would be a great experience for the kids.
National New York Central Railroad Museum: The name may be a bit misleading but this museum is located in the city of Elkhart, Indiana. Tickets cost as low as 6 USD for adults and entry is free for kids!
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1. Whitewater Valley Railroad
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Whitewater Valley Railroad on Thursday, March 24, 2022
Whitewater Valley Railroad is located in the eastern part of Indiana and provides some amazing rail rides from Connersville to Metamora, which is a pretty canal town. The town is ideal for exploring and shopping for a day. Check out the grist mill, go for a unique boat ride, or relish a scrumptious lunch at one of the eateries in Metamora.
The railway is also known for coming up with special excursions. In the past, it has organized a dinner ride, an autumn foliage special ride, a music fest ride, and ghost-themed rides. It also offers an array of vacation-themed train rides and they cater to people on different budgets. Seems to me like the perfect journey to bring the family along! There are a few train rides with tickets as low as 27 USD per passenger. In a nutshell, there is a train ride for everyone to enjoy and cherish for a long time to come at Whitewater Valley Railroad.
Whitewater Valley Railroad
Website: Whitewater Valley Railroad
2. French Lick Scenic Railway
Too tired for hiking but dreaming of seeing Indiana’s beautiful views? Book a ride with French Lick Scenic Railway which enables you to enjoy scenic train rides throughout the year. These train rides are ideal for train lovers of all age groups. The duration of these train rides is usually a little less than two hours and you can enjoy seeing some stunning places in the Midwest. You should explore the Indiana Railway Museum, located in French Lick, before or after the ride. The railway also arranges Indiana train rides to celebrate special events, and some of the past favorites include The Polar Express ride, the Tasting Train (where you can gorge on rum, scotch, bourbon, and chocolate), and Wild West Hold-ups. I’d suggest booking an excursion if you’re traveling with fellow lovers of history!
The train will pass through the scenic Hoosier National Forest and there will be an informative narration during this time. You can purchase wine and beer, other beverages, and snacks from the dining/snack car. Prior to the train returning to French Lick station, passengers will get a chance to relax and stretch a bit. It is better to buy tickets in advance, particularly during the fall as it is when people flock to the train to see the leaves change color.
French Lick Scenic Railway
Website: French Lick Scenic Railway
3. Spirit of Jasper
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Spirit of Jasper is a charming train excursion in Jasper, in the state of Indiana. The train ride is ideal for work events, day trips, and family parties. During the course of this beautiful journey, you can marvel at the fantastic architecture, including several bridges that the train crosses, and beautiful scenery.
The excursion links to French Lick and so the cities have come up with partnered events. The Spirit of Jasper also provides memorable dining experiences, and it has in the past organized a wine and chocolate tasting trip and special train rides during Jasper’s Strassenfest.
Spirit of Jasper
Website: Spirit of Jasper
4. Nickel Plate Express
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This Independence Day, celebrate with a ride on the rails that helped build America Visit NickelPlateExpress.com to...
Posted by Nickel Plate Express on Monday, June 28, 2021
Enjoy specially-themed train excursions by booking a ticket on Noblesville’s Nickel Plate Express. These excursions are specially meant for families and kids, but there are also some fun adults-only rides. So instead of the usual shopping malls, why don’t you book a ticket and hop on to The Reindeer Ride Express instead? This scenic train ride option in Indiana is a unique experience to avail of during your vacation. You can expect plenty of train rides with the expansion of the railroad.
The family-friendly rail excursion operates out of central Indiana over a distance of 19.3 km (12 mi) and passes through Cicero, Arcadia, and Atlanta. The ride usually starts from Hobbs Station, which is near downtown Noblesville. The year-round Nickel Plate Express has organized themed excursions in the past, such as the Reindeer Ride Express, Ales & Rails Express, Ghost Express, and the Pumpkin Express. While the Ales and Rails Express was perfect for adults and couples, the Reindeer Ride and Pumpkin Express Ride were ideal for families. Check their website for updated themed experiences!
Nickel Plate Express
Website: Nickel Plate Express
5. Lark Ranch Train Rides
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Today, Lark Ranch in Loogootee, as well as, Lark Ranch in Greenfield, have both emerged as a popular spot for young children who are fond of train rides. Lark Ranch in Indiana happens to be a fun destination in the fall for families living in Indianapolis. There is something unique at Lark Ranch that one will not find at the other farms in Indianapolis, which is this delightful train ride. It operates on a proper railway track around the entire farm. Not only the children, but you, as well as the grandparents, will love this amazing train ride.
The track spans around 1.6 km (1 mi), so sit back and enjoy the ride with your family. The train has the capacity to accommodate 80 passengers and is custom-made, so it is sure to be unlike anything you have experienced elsewhere.
Lark Ranch Train Rides
Website: Lark Ranch
6. Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
Embark on an exploration journey of Northeast Indiana, Southeast Michigan, and Western Ohio by choosing one of the many steam-powered vintage trains at Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society. The train welcomes all age groups to experience a slice of history and hosts theme-based train rides every month.
Travelers can decide between a variety of diesel trains and expect a charge based on the journey they choose. Some trains even allow dogs on board, while others serve cigars to passengers. Furthermore, all the rides are round trip, ensuring convenience for travelers. Make sure to check their website as the rides tend to be seasonal.
Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
Address: 15808 Edgerton Rd, New Haven, IN 46774, United States
7. Indiana Live Steamers
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Indiana Live Steamers on Saturday, May 5, 2018
A few die-hard train enthusiasts came together and started the Indiana Live Steamers in the state of Indiana. While they conduct train rides on a small scale, they operate on real railway tracks, with model trains. In short, you can call them miniature train rides. It will not only be fun for the little ones, but also for their parents who accompany them. The Indiana Live Steamers Train Rides are also known to offer well-organized birthday parties for children.
Make sure to check with the organization first if they have any available slots! The ride will take you through the forest, as well as over bridges. You will simply fall in love with this unique experience.
Indiana Live Steamers Train Rides
Website: Indiana Live Steamers Train Rides
Enjoy these train rides in Indiana
No matter how many advancements there are in the transportation sector, trains have a quaint charm of their own. If you wish to be a part of this wonderful experience, check out these most scenic train rides in Indiana, USA, and have unlimited fun. Be sure to watch out for the beautiful lakes and places for kayaking for an unforgettable experience!
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