Do you ever find yourself wondering if there are any scenic train rides in Missouri? If so, you’re not alone! Missouri is home to many beautiful places and wonders, and a train ride really is the best way to slow down and soak up the views. Happily, you can discover Missouri’s stunning countryside and mountain views with a relaxing train ride through the Ozarks. Take a seat under the glass dome roof, enjoy a meal, and take pleasure in the beautiful scenery aboard the Branson Scenic Railway. On this railroad, passengers will embark on a 40-mile-long trip into the heart of the Missouri Ozarks. So if you’re in the southwestern part of the state, skip the “train rides near me in Missouri” Google search, and instead check out this scenic excursion. All aboard one of the best train rides in the USA:

Arrive at the historic train depot in downtown Branson to book your 45-minute trip aboard the Branson Scenic Railway. The depot and railway date back to 1905; however, the leisure trips did not begin until 1993.
Branson Scenic Railway/Facebook
Operating season for the Branson Scenic Railway runs seasonally from March until December. Passengers can choose a daily excursion, dinner trip, or book a special event. Regular excursion tickets are less than $30 per person.
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Dinner trips occur every Saturday at 5 p.m., from April through the end of October. It's the perfect option for a special and memorable date night.
Branson Scenic Railway/Facebook
Dining inside the train car is a totally unique experience. You'll be mesmerized with dazzling views of the Missouri countryside while you dine.
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Travel over the rolling hills of the Missouri Ozarks. Passengers can experience two different trips; one route travels north to Galena, the other travels south into Arkansas.
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All passengers will enjoy a live narration about the area through which the train travels, making for a fascinating educational experience, too!
Prepare yourself for the short trip through this old, dark train tunnel. After periods of rain, a small waterfall often appears on the left side of the tunnel entrance. Take a seat under the glass dome for a good look at the tunnel.
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The Branson Scenic Railway trains depart multiple times a day through October. They close out the season with a magical Polar Express trip that your kids will love. This magical holiday train ride is one you won't want to miss!
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You'll find the depot for the Branson Scenic Railway at 206 E Main St., Branson, MO, 6561. For more information, visit them on the Branson Scenic Railway Facebook page.

Have you taken a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments below! And while you’re in Branson, take this stunning canopy tour for an awesome view of Missouri’s fall foliage.

Okay, are you still wondering about other scenic train rides in Missouri? Not to worry — here are four different train excursions located all across the Show-Me State, so no matter where you’re located, you’re sure to be near an amazing Missouri railroad!

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train rides near me in Missouri

Sarah | July 25, 2021

What are some other excursions on the Branson Scenic Railway?

 

As mentioned briefly above, each November and December, the Branson Scenic Railway hosts a real-life Polar Express train ride that's nothing short of magical. This entire excursion is an experience, from start to finish. Each passenger's ticket includes hot cocoa and a cookie. However, if you upgrade to premium, you'll have dibs on reserved seating, unlimited hot cocoa and cookies, and a souvenir Polar Express mug to take home. During the ride, conductors walk around each train car reading the classic children's book for all to enjoy. In the book, children on the Polar Express wore their pajamas since it was nighttime. Children are encouraged to do the same for this Christmas train ride in Branson -- and many parents do, too! This really is one of the most memorable holiday experiences in Missouri and a must for families with train-loving littles!

What are some of the best day trips in Missouri?

The Show-Me State is full of amazing places to explore, and between our beautiful parks, world-class attractions, amazing cities, small towns, and natural wonders, it can be very overwhelming knowing where to begin! So we recommend starting here, with these day trips across the state. Designed to be tackled one the course of a year, you'll travel to places like:

 

Are there many train excursions in Missouri?

There are! In addition to numerous train excursions offered in the railroads on this list, Rothwell Park is a hidden gem of a place that train lovers young and old are sure to love. Rothwell Park is one of the largest city-owned parks in the state, and it features a pond, trails, playgrounds, aquatic center, and the Magic City Line Miniature Train! Riders can take the train from Lions Station around the one-mile track. This is a delightful little ride for younger kids and is sure to become a family favorite!

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Branson Scenic Railway, 206 E Main St, Branson, MO 65616, USA