As spring break creeps up on us, it’s time to start planning unforgettable trips for the family. These kid-friendly train rides tend to fill up quickly, so it’s best to make your reservations as soon as possible.
For in-state adventures, check out these locomotives:
North Georgia Live Steamers
1632 Centennial Olympic Parkway NE, Conyers 30013
North Georgia Live Steamers is a group of miniature (one-eighth scale) train enthusiasts. The schedule for the 2024 season will be 1–4:30 p.m. Saturdays, April 13, May 18, Oct. 5 and Nov. 9. Rides cost just $2 per person — cash only — and make for a great adventure, especially for younger train fans.
Scenic Railroad at Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain 30083
For a proper train ride a little closer to town, the Scenic Railroad at Stone Mountain train is tough to beat. It’s a 25-30 minute long ride powered by a 1940s locomotive, and the trip offers amazing views of the entire park. Tickets are $39.99 per adult (ages 12+) and $34.99 for ages 3-11. With fun activities like karaoke and singalongs, you never know what will happen on your next train ride at Stone Mountain.
Southeastern Railway Museum
3595 Buford Highway, Duluth 30096
This railway covers 35 acres in Duluth and has been operating since 1970. The museum features historic Pullman cars, classic steam locomotives and more. Admission ranges from $12 to $18 for children, seniors and adults. It’s open every day of the week. The train ride lasts about an hour.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
241 Depot St., Blue Ridge 30513
This four-hour train ride takes passengers on a 26-mile round trip through the North Georgia countryside along the Toccoa River. The trip includes hourlong layovers in McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, so you can explore a bit before reboarding.
If you’re feeling like a family road trip, check out these train rides a bit further afield:
Tweetsie Railroad
300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC
Not only does Tweetsie Railroad offer an amazing ride for the entire family, it’s also a Wild Wild West theme park. The season opens April 6. Admission is $60 for adults (13+), $40 for children (3-12) and free for children under 3.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN
Best described as a moving museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is interactive, historical and fun. With events every weekend, you can make the most out of your visit. Experiences range from A Day Out with Thomas to daylong Copperhill Special, which is 94 miles over eight hours, with a 90 minute layover for lunch.
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