23 Train Rides in NEW YORK (Scenic, Historic, and Homely)
Nothing is more charming than a long train ride through the countryside, even though taking a plane may be more convenient.
Before first class and private aircraft, trains were the most popular way to travel across America.
And even though New York has undergone so much modernization, train rides still exist.
That’s because the breathtaking surroundings are still there; in certain circumstances, traveling by train is the most excellent way to take them in.
Therefore, if you want to experience the stunning scenery of New York from lavishly furnished cars while also enjoying upscale facilities and excellent service, keep reading for the list of the top train rides in the State.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Scenic Drives in New York.
Train Rides in Catskill, New York
1. Delaware & Ulster Railroad
The famed Catskill Mountains of New York are accessible by picturesque Delaware & Ulster Railroad train journeys.
As the train’s rhythmic rolling carries you back in time, you fall into a trance.
The Catskill Mountains are viewed entirely from the open cars, and occasionally, a bunch of butterflies will pass as the train meanders through valleys and creeks.
Outside the train, there were fantastic activities that were affordable.
The Catskills’ excellent vintage railroad is unquestionably a place where incredible people preserve the best aspects of our history.
Regular track maintenance and the maintenance of the internal machinery kept the railroad in top condition.
If you are up for a rustic train experience, this ride is the best one to try.
Address: 43510 New York-28, Arkville, New York 12406, United States
2. Rail Explorers: Catskill Division
The unique hobby of riding the rails on pedal-powered “Rail Explorers” is fun for all ages, so take a tour to discover the railroad’s enchantment for yourself.
From the village of Phoenicia, just 90 miles north of New York City, visitors can actively participate in “The River Run” and ride the train lines alongside Esopus Creek.
Riders have the chance to explore the Catskill Mountains’ beautiful woodlands.
The firm has implemented several safeguards to guarantee the finest adventure and the safety of all riders.
Trained tour leaders lead the excursions at the front and rear of each group, and all bikes are to be 500 feet apart to allow visitors to ride at their own pace.
Rail Explorers is a game for people of all ages and skill levels.
Address: 70 High Street, Phoenicia, New York 12464, United States
3. Empire State Railway Museum
The goal of the Empire State Railway Museum is to maintain the legacy of Catskill Mountain and nearby railroads.
Young and old alike will have a blast on their Rail Explorers ride.
You’ll ride across Road 28 while enjoying the stunning Catskills scenery.
This museum is a two-for-one offer that is an incredible bargain.
Both the Railway Museum and the Rail Explorers Catskills Section are nearby.
This magnificent historical railroad museum contains models, photographs, and knowledgeable staff that can provide important details regarding the development and use of the Catskill Mountain Railroad.
Much of the building’s original components are still present.
There is also a neat replica of what the train station used to look like in the past.
Address: 70 Lower, High St, Phoenicia, NY 12464, United States
Also see our article on Road Trips in New York.
Train Rides in Rochester, New York
1. Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad
This museum in Rochester allows visitors to ride on their exhibits.
They offer enjoyable train rides that highlight Rochester’s rich railroading history.
As part of their objective to inform the public about the technology, history, and impacts of the transportation business in Rochester and the surrounding areas, they operate railway equipment and exhibit relevant historical artifacts and papers.
You can tour the massive range of historic trains and displays in New York State while taking a mile-and-a-half-long roundtrip train ride through the museum grounds.
All trains leave from their restored 1909 Industry Depot, and it is accessible from Route 251 West and Exit 11 of the I-390 and is only 20 minutes from downtown Rochester.
Address: 282 Rush Scottsville Rd, Rush, NY 14543, United States
2. New York Museum of Transportation
About 20 minutes south of Rochester lies the New York Museum of Transportation, which offers an adventure of fun and history sure to please all family members, young and old.
The one and only trolley ride in New York State recreates the heyday of interurban trolley transit against a landscape of rolling hills and the Genesee River valley.
This intriguing and instructive experience highlights the history of transportation in the region of New York State.
In addition to various little items highlighting the history of transportation, the New York Museum of Transportation is also home to 14 full-size trolley cars, a caboose, a steam engine, a historic highway, and horse-drawn vehicles.
Along with several displays, there are also informed staff members, and you may explore movies, autos, trams, and buses.
Adress: 6393 E River Rd, West Henrietta, NY 14586, United States
Also see our article on Horseback Riding in New York.
Train Rides in Buffalo, New York
1. Buffalo Cattaraugus & Jamestown Scenic Railway
Buffalo, Cattaraugus & Jamestown Scenic Railway Company educates the public about the technology and history of American railroads by providing steam and diesel-powered passenger train rides.
Through safe and educational rail rides, they hope to reintroduce and reignite the thrill of taking trains into beautiful scenic trails.
The BC&J Scenic Railway conducts passenger excursions every year in the Hamburg region.
They also allow renting a train for your business’s purposes and customized trips for rail fans and personal excursions.
The Scenic Railway offers something to everybody, whether you’re searching for a fun family trip or a distinctive location for a business excursion.
With stunning views, delectable wine, and top-notch service, the site offers a peaceful train trip.
Address: 4 Scott St, Hamburg, NY 14075, United States
2. New York & Lake Erie Rail Road
New York & Lake Erie Rail Road is another fantastic facility that offers passenger trip train rides in the countryside of Cattaraugus County.
They operate year-round seasonal, holiday, sightseeing, wine, and event trains.
The railroad still runs from Gowanda to Conewango Valley, New York.
Visitors can take the Peter Cotton Tail Express ride, which includes a ride with Peter Cottontail, gifts, an Easter egg search, prizes, and more, for a 2-hour round trip with the Easter bunny and his crew.
You can ride the Santa Express Train Ride with Santa and receive gifts while having fun.
For a fun way to honor mothers on their special day, they also provide rides on the Mother’s Day Wine Train and Mother’s Day BBQ Train.
Address: 50 Commercial St, Gowanda, NY 14070, United States
3. Medina Railroad Museum
Medina Railroad Museum is a train museum with 6000 items, memorabilia, pictures, toys, interactive displays, and a model railroad, all related to the railroads of western New York.
A selection of antique firefighting tools is also available.
The museum organizes Thomas the Tank Engine Day Out yearly with Thomas activities and seasonal passenger excursion train journeys between Medina and Lockport.
One of the Country’s Biggest Model-Train Layouts is in this museum.
You can participate in a fun scavenger hunt by looking for specific items on the models and in the room.
The layout is an engaging timeline showing the development of goods transportation in Western New York from the canal in the 1800s to railroads.
Push button controls, such as little trains, allow visitors to the museum to interact with various objects on the layout.
Address: 530 West Ave, Medina, NY 14103, United States
Also see our article on Hiking Trails in New York.
Train Rides in Upstate New York
1. Arcade & Attica Railroad
You can take a two-hour scenic train trip through history thanks to Arcade & Attica Railroad.
The Arcade & Attica Railroad is a narrow railroad that moves goods between Arcade and North Java, New York.
American railroading history will embrace visitors as soon as they enter the historic station.
On your panoramic tour, you’ll travel through rural landscapes and farmlands that have barely changed since the line’s original construction in the 1880s.
As you arrive at Curriers Depot, you can explore, examine the engine, snap photographs, and interact with the staff.
During the year, they provide a wide range of special event train tours in addition to our regular seasonal train rides, business charters, school excursions, guided tours, work celebrations, weddings, birthdays, and more.
This is the choice to be if you aim for experience and heritage.
Address: 278 Main St, Arcade, NY 14009, United States
2. Salamanca Rail Museum
The Buffalo, Rochester, and Pittsburgh Railway built the passenger depot that is now the Salamanca Rail Museum in 1912.
You can relive a period from more than 90 years ago when the train was the main transportation between cities by viewing artifacts, photographs, and video presentations in the museum.
The museum’s displays feature nostalgic railroad artifacts focusing on the three railways that served the area: the Pennsylvania, Baltimore & Ohio, and Erie Railroads.
A wonderful gift shop is available, and the area is typically neat.
Their host, an excellent and knowledgeable guide, is one of the highlights of the museum trip.
Overall, this Railroad museum offers a fantastic experience for the whole family.
This is an excellent location if you’re nearby or staying in Allegany and want to take the kids on a short excursion from camp.
Address: 170 N Main Street, Salamanca, NY 14779, United States
3. Finger Lakes Railway
Choose one of the new excursions offered by Finger Lakes Railway if you and your family would want to go by train through the stunning Finger Lakes.
The outing they offer would include opportunities for wine tours, themed rides, and much more.
Binghamton Bear Campground provides covered wagon camping where you can spend the
The 2-hour round trip goes fairly swiftly as you drive by little towns’ downtowns and abandoned structures at night.
Moreover, there is Family Camping, where each wagon has a queen-size bunk and twin beds, providing space for the entire family.
It is a fantastic place to watch trains and get trail rides for the whole family.
If you want to take a train ride for the experience, information, or heritage, this is the place to be.
Address: 68 Border City Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, United States
4. Adirondack Scenic Railroad (Old Forge)
By connecting the Mohawk Valley in Utica and the northern Adirondacks, the Adirondack Scenic Railroad offers a singular and remarkable journey through a landscape that can only be experienced in this manner.
The train excursions aim to maintain and continue to provide expedition commuter rail services from central New York to the northern Adirondacks.
And to give locals and visitors of all ages and physical abilities a chance to enjoy the Adirondack region’s scenic beauty in an environmentally responsible way.
Among its unique train excursions are the Haunted History Evening Excursion, the Princess Super Hero Train, the Pumpkin Train, and the Santa Train.
A brief stopover in Thendara gives you just enough time to eat and browse the stores after standing in the open-air car and taking in the view.
There are never any dull moments when traveling on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
Address: 2568 NY-28, Thendara, NY 13472, United States
5. Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway
For families, groups of friends, or special trips, the Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway offers a variety of train experiences.
The trains go from Corinth Station and allow passengers to take in the splendor of the Southern Adirondacks.
Visitors can select from various seating options while taking in the spectacular scenery of the marsh and streams and searching for wildlife along the way.
There is outdoor car seating designed like picnic tables and will provide shade and cover.
The table-style seating in the dining car’s air conditioning is available with first-class seating.
Families will love their standard coach class climate-controlled seating, which has enough for about 40 people with side-by-side seats and an aisle in the middle.
The ride and learning a little about the train’s history were, without a doubt, will become the highlights of your trip.
Address: 9 Railroad Pl, Corinth, NY 12822, United States
Also see our article on Bike Trails in New York.
Train Rides in Central New York
1. Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
Established in 1869, the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad offers rides through history and breathtaking beauty.
Their rail travels allow tourists to experience what was once the primary mode of transportation across the nation.
Trains leave Milford’s renovated depot throughout the spring, summer, fall, and holiday seasons.
The Easter Bunny Express, Blues Express, Dinner Trains, Halloween Special, and Christmas Trains and Train Robberies are just a few of the seasonal exceptional train experiences available.
In addition to passing through forests, swamps, and rolling farms, the train crosses the river twice over two steel-truss bridges.
They will try to accommodate people with disabilities even though their equipment is historically significant, with some pieces dating back as long as 100 years.
Address: 136 E Main St, Milford, NY 13807, United States
2. Adirondack Railroad – Union Station
Suppose you are looking for a scenic tourist train ride. In that case, you can go on the Adirondack Scenic Train through secluded woodlands and into the six-million-acre Adirondack Park, which is incredibly beautiful.
The Adirondack Railroad Preservation Society, a non-profit organization, manages the railroad.
Volunteers make up the majority of the train crews.
They create incredible shows and tours that everyone adores.
With all the singing, dancing, and games to keep them entertained during the lengthy voyage, youngsters will like the Polar Express train rides.
The railway station was lovely, and the accommodations were roomy with oversized, plush recliners.
No matter what season you visit—summer, fall, or winter—the scenery is stunning.
And nothing is better than taking a leisurely, protracted train ride with the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
Address: 330 Main Street, Suite 102, Utica, NY 13501, United States
3. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway
Richfield Spring Scenic Railway is another fantastic location in Central New York for a relaxing and beautiful train trip.
On the adventure train, they provide an hourlong roundtrip tour.
They also provide guided train rides, during which the train crew will educate you about the local wildlife, views, and the railroad’s history.
Visitors to the park have access to passenger train service beginning at the South Columbia facilities.
You can continue on foot on the route for another two miles or more to “McKoon’s crossing” after taking the train to the end of the line.
Also, you can search the trail for artifacts that tell the story of a railroad proudly built more than 150 years ago.
The Richfield Springs Scenic Railway offers Quite an excellent excursion train experience with lovely scenery and knowledgeable service.
Address: 168 Mc Koons Road, Richfield Springs, New York 13439, United States
Also see our article on Festivals in New York.
Train Rides in New York City
1. The Adirondack
Amtrak runs the Adirondack, a daily passenger train between New York City and Montreal, partly along the Empire Corridor.
The Hudson Valley’s rich wine region serves as the Adirondack’s passageway from New York City to Montreal.
At Moynihan Train Hall in New York, you can board a train in the morning and land in Montreal in the evening.
Although amenities differ depending on the train, most have Wi-Fi and cafe service.
Everyone will be taken aback by the breathtaking scenery as the journey progresses.
The “Top 10 Most Scenic Train Journeys in the World” list frequently includes this Adirondack train ride.
Travelers can board anywhere along the line, and you will arrive in midtown Manhattan in time for dinner and the city’s nightlife.
The train travel takes ten hours.
Yet the sights you passed through spoke a thousand volumes.
Address: Montreal-Albany-New York
2. Lake Shore Limited
The overnight intercity passenger train known as Lake Shore Limited travels through two portions east of Albany from Chicago to either New York City or Boston.
Lake Shore Limited train line provides vistas of numerous frozen lakes and snow-covered beaches, which you will enjoy.
Between Chicago and New York City, the Service passes over some of the most beautiful coastlines in the country, going through South Bend, to Cleveland, and Buffalo.
During the approximately 19-hour journey, this well-known Native American Trail circles the southern shore of Lake Michigan, continues along the banks of the Mohawk River, and ends with breathtaking views of the Erie Canal.
You can take full advantage of their opulent Viewliner accommodations while onboard.
Or you can unwind in a First Class private room or stretch out in your comfortable seat.
Yet, the entire journey fills with enjoyment and amusement.
Address: New York/Boston – Albany – Chicago
3. The Vermonter
This route connects St. Albans in north Vermont with Washington, D.C., though you can board at the either points for the New York stop.
Starting in Washington, DC, the Vermonter will travel north via New York City to Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.
With all the breathtaking vistas you encounter along the route, reaching Vermont is the cherry on top.
Vermont celebrates the most significant ski season in the East, so it is ideal for visiting this town on a train ride.
Nonetheless, if you are a native of Vermont, treat yourself to a journey south to one of the great eastern American cities.
The Vermonter makes stops in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., each day on his way south.
Address: St. Albans to Essex Junction (esp. Burlington) to Springfield, New York to Washington, DC
4. Empire Service
The Empire Service line travels directly upstate from New York City, stopping in Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, and finally at the Great Falls.
This picturesque train journey will be your best bet if you have not seen the famous Niagara Falls.
You can also use the Empire Service to go to the Finger Lakes region if you need a break, continue to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, or head up to the Hudson River Valley for a visit to wine country.
The Empire Service train takes around 7 hours and 20 minutes, with many daily departures.
Going on this gorgeous trail journey is undoubtedly one of the greatest approaches to experiencing the State.
Address: New York – Albany – Syracuse – Rochester – Buffalo – Niagara Falls
5. Ethan Allen Express
Take the Ethan Allen Express train to see the beautiful Hudson River Valley scenery.
They offer daily service via Albany from New York City to Burlington, Vermont.
You can access year-round outdoor adventures thanks to the Ethan Allen Express.
Enjoy the scenery while traveling comfortably, and use the Café Car’s amenities like light meals, snacks, and beverages.
You can choose from their coach and business seats, each offering comfort and convenience.
Your little dog or cat is also welcome to travel by train with you.
Although it travels farther north into the State than the Vermonter and takes less time, this route offers classic countryside views.
Take this train ride, have fun for a while, and save the memories forever.
Address: Burlington – Rutland – Albany – New York
6. Berkshire Flyer Train
The Berkshire Flyer provides seasonal weekend service from Moynihan Station in New York to Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
This summer, you can forego the Thruway and travel to the Berkshires by scenic route.
The Berkshire Flyer’s Business Class offers passengers an improved travel experience and access to premium features, including leather chairs with footrests and complementary non-alcoholic refreshments on some trains.
You may avoid stop-and-go traffic along the Hudson River valley to The Berkshires’ fantastic restaurants, spas, cultural sites, and outdoor activities with the Berkshire Flyer’s 4-hour services on specific occasions.
The quickest, worry-free way to get from New York to Pittsfield and the Berkshires is on the Berkshire Flyer, a seasonal weekend passenger train.
A Berkshire Flyer train ride is always a good choice because it provides one of New York City’s most practical and beautiful itineraries.
Address: New York – Poughkeepsie – Albany – Pittsfield
7. Cardinal Train
Amtrak runs the Cardinal, a long-distance passenger train, between New York Penn Station and Chicago Union Station.
The Cardinal, which travels between New York and Chicago, offers breathtaking vistas of the natural splendor of the Southeast.
You’ll see West Virginia’s untamed, white-water rivers, the State’s gently undulating horse countryside, the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Highlands, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Shenandoah Valley, as they are only viewable by train.
The railway travels west along the banks of the Ohio River, passing through the little villages of Ashland, Maysville, and Cincinnati’s skyline.
Your route then continues north to Indianapolis and then south to Chicago.
The Cardinal train ride is the perfect way to take a serene, beautiful journey that gets you where you’re going and feeds your spirit.
Address: New- York Washington – Charlottesville – Cincinnati -Indianapolis – Chicago
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