As the calendar turns to the months that end in “ber”, thoughts of cooler weather, bonfires, and yes, the occasional pumpkin drink of one’s choice, start to creep in to the minds of people across this great country.
Amidst all the other great traditions of autumn is one that pertains to our realm here at the Railfan Journal, fall trains. In that spirit, and the spirit of good finances, we’ve put together a list of ten of the cheapest options for those wishing to enjoy fall by tourist rail this year
Please note all prices listed are for standard adult coach seating. For our purposes, the Southeast is Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Author’s Note: An attempt was made to secure a photo for every train listed. Unfortunately this was not possible. We are not including normally scheduled trains that happen to run in the fall, only marketed fall/Halloween experiences.
1. Fall Color Special: North Alabama Railroad Museum – $15
Operates: October 28, November 4
Not only do you get the cheapest ride on our list, but along with this hour and twenty minute ride you also get a free commemorative mug. A chance to see some great scenery AND I get a cup for my coffee? Sign me up!
2. Trick or Treat Halloween Express/ Boo ‘n’ Choo: New Hope Valley Railway – $16
Operates: Halloween Express: October 14, 21, 28
Boo ‘n’ Choo: October 28
We’re including both trips here simply because they both sound so darn fun. Costumes are encouraged as the whole family can enjoy Halloween themed scenes along the route, including a game where you try to find all the mummies along the tracks. In the railroad yard will be live music and a garden railway.
The Boo ‘n’ Choo is a Halloween ride for adult goblins with alcoholic options available. Still sounds like a good time though.
3. Pumpkin Patch Excursion: South Carolina Railroad Museum – $17
Operates: October 21, 28
I’m all for pumpkin patches and I’m even more for them when the transportation to one is a train. Passengers 12 and under can decorate a pumpkin and play games, including a maze. Food will also be on site for those who developed a hankering on the train. After about 40 minutes in the patch, you’ll board the train back to the museum.
4. Fall Foliage Special: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum – $18
Operates: October 28, November 4-5
The college football fan in me really wants to ride this train for one reason. Not only does the introduction to the train mention SEC football, but riders are encouraged to wear their favorite teams gear onboard. I want to see their faces when I show up in a West Virginia University shirt amidst all the Alabama and Auburn shirts.
Sports aside, patrons can enjoy a 75 minute ride as they no doubt discuss the games that day. Wonder if I can sneak some Big 12 discussion in to all this SEC talk.
5. Pumpkin Patch Train: Bluegrass Railroad Museum – $18
Operates: September 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28
Kentucky in fall is undoubtedly a beautiful scene. To be able to enjoy the scenery and get a pumpkin from a patch that benefits a non profit group on the way back to the Museum? What could be better?
6. Halloween Train: North Carolina Museum of Transportation – $18
Operates: October 21, 28, 29
This might be the best deal on the list as with that $18 you get not only a train ride but also entrance in to a world class transportation museum. The folks in Spencer have got themselves a real gem and the Halloween train will take you around the property while riding on and behind some beautifully restored equipment.
7. Pumpkin Pickin’ Extravaganza: North Alabama Railroad Museum – $20
Operates: October 14
We return to North Alabama for the Pumpkin Pickin’ Extravaganza. Passengers will ride through the woods of Northern Alabama and arrive at the pumpkin patch where every child on board will be able to pick their own pumpkin to take home and I’m sure have a talk about what they want carved in to it on the way back.
8. Fall Break Express: Kentucky Railroad Museum – $21
Operates: October 3, 10
An hour and a half train ride to sit back, relax, and watch the leaves start to fall awaits those on these trains. A look at the museum is encouraged too.
9. Pumpkin Patch Express: Florida Railroad Museum – $24
Operates: October 21-22, 28-29
Included with your ticket is not only a train ride and entrance to the pumpkin patch but also hay rides, games, and pumpkins for the kids to take home.
10. Halloween Erie Express: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum – $25
Operates: October 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-29
If you’re looking for a fright, I’m afraid you’ve come to the wrong place. This is most definitely a family affair. A train ride, cider, blacklight mini golf, and Fun House await those with a ticket. Children can even pick out a pumpkin and a goodie bag, all in about an hour and 15 minutes or so. Simple family fun, a staple of TVRM.
This is but the first in a series of articles showcasing the cheapest fall train rides across the country. Stay tuned for the next in our series.
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