Popular Texas Trains
For a relaxing tour through the state of Texas, why not take a train? Trains are a good way to unwind and let somebody else deliver you to your vacation spot without the headache of flying. Plus, you can take in the extensive variety of scenery as you go across the state, something practically impossible to do by car or airplane.
There are two special trains that operate in Texas that can be entertaining for the whole family. One is known as the Texas State Railroad and travels through east Texas from Rusk to Palestine. The passenger train is pulled by either a restored steam engine or an aged Alco cab diesel. The stations at each end of the line have managed to hold on to their 1800's design look and feel, adding to the authenticity of the journey. The territory covered is picturesque and provides youngsters a chance to see what historic train travel and lodging was like.
The other distinctive railroad in Texas is the Austin Steam Train. This train is designed more for excursions than travel to a destination, but it’s just as fun nonetheless. Passengers can select from three levels of luxury — coaches, which are open-window train cars, excursion cars that have heat and A/C, and finally, lounge cars, which are climate-controlled and have snacks offered as well. Once again, it's a fantastic teaching experience for the little ones, and adults will have fun, too, remembering the smell and sounds of the trains they grew up with.
If you want to include another layer of fun to your train trip, plan to go on Halloween or Christmas. There are exclusive train rides and events that take place during these two holidays. The Halloween tour includes a kid's costume judging contest, a lot of candy handed out, and ghost stories in the darkened cars. At Christmas, the train goes to the town of Burnet, where all of the residents are dressed in outfits and the city is appropriately decorated to resemble Bethlehem during the time of Christ's birth. There are even domestic farm animals like goats, chickens, and cows, roaming the streets for additional authenticity.
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