This Dreamy Train-Themed Trip Through Arkansas Will Take You On The Journey Of A Lifetime
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
The rails have remained an integral part of Arkansas industry throughout the state’s history. Cities have been established, resources get transported, and families will be fed because of our rail system. What better way to pay homage to this industry than to enjoy and learn about trains? From excursions to lodging, we’ve selected all the best train-themed stops in the state to create a memorable trip. Feel free pick and choose what’s near you or go out and conquer the entirety of this Arkansas train journey.
With eight exciting attractions and activities, this Arkansas train-themed trip is sure to please the whole family. We've charted the course on the above map. You'll find a link to the interactive map here. The eight stops are listed below.
Have a chance to feel fine and dine along the restored Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad. Since all the rides are roundtrip, you’ll get to see the engine turntable operate. Book a dining car for lunch or dinner for an hour and half ride or try an excursion train ride. The excursion rides are narrated by the conductor and are about 45 minutes.
The train station is at 299 N Main St., Eureka Springs.
The train station is at 299 N Main St., Eureka Springs.
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About 30 miles east of Monticello resides the town of McGehee. Here you’ll find the McGehee Railroad Museum at the original Missouri Pacific Railroad Depot built in 1910. The depot is particularly important because it was the determining factor of McGehee’s location. You should also visit the WWII Japanese American Internment Museum in the renovated southern building of the depot.
The museum is located at 100 South Railroad St., McGehee.
The museum is located at 100 South Railroad St., McGehee.
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The A&M offers round trip tours through the Ozark Boston Mountains. The excursion selections are Fort Smith to Winslow or Van Buren to Winslow for a shorter three to four hour trip. For a full day trip, book the Springdale to Van Buren expedition. The trips can include lunch but are guaranteed to include the most breathtaking scenery available in the state.
Springdale Depot: 306 E Emma Ave.
Fort Smith Depot: 93 South 3rd St.
Van Buren Depot: 813 Main St.
Springdale Depot: 306 E Emma Ave.
Fort Smith Depot: 93 South 3rd St.
Van Buren Depot: 813 Main St.
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Arguably the most delightful eatery in the state, All Aboard is a truly unique dining experience. Besides having a dedicated train theme, a little train runs through the restaurant serving an important purpose. The meal you order will be delivered to your table by the All Aboard train! They have a great selection of burgers and baskets (like the delicious sweet chili glazed shrimp basket) which are made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
All Aboard Restaurant & Grill is located at 6813 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock or at 20320 I-30 N., Benton.
All Aboard Restaurant & Grill is located at 6813 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock or at 20320 I-30 N., Benton.
Please note, Lindsey Railroad Museum has permanently closed.
Learn about Texarkana’s close ties to the rail system at the Lindsey Railroad Museum. The museum has photos and art displays of the city’s lengthy 144 year rail history. They also have railroad memorabilia and a hands-on section for kids.
The museum is at 202 E Broad St., Texarkana.
Learn about Texarkana’s close ties to the rail system at the Lindsey Railroad Museum. The museum has photos and art displays of the city’s lengthy 144 year rail history. They also have railroad memorabilia and a hands-on section for kids.
The museum is at 202 E Broad St., Texarkana.
This immense forty year art project turned attraction is made up of hundreds of moving parts and is 95% handmade. Guests can admire the dedication to detail and take part of the interactive railroad model. Whether you’re there to feel like you’re a giant in a tiny world, admire the handiwork, or to run the trains, you’re sure to have a big time at Tiny Town.
Tiny Town is located at 374 Whittington Ave., Hot Springs.
Tiny Town is located at 374 Whittington Ave., Hot Springs.
This museum aims to preserve all of Arkansas’ railroad history. The museum resides in the Cotton Belt Shop and houses the last steam engine built at the shop in 1942. This is a great stop for train enthusiasts of any age since you can explore in the train engine and cars.
The museum is located at 1700 Port Rd., Pine Bluff.
The museum is located at 1700 Port Rd., Pine Bluff.
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Complete your train travels with a stay at one of these luxuriously refurbished cabooses. There are three charming cabooses to choose from. They also offer the Junction Depot for those needing a bit more room. Livingston Junction is on the same spur that’s used by the Eureka Springs & Northwest Arkansas Railway so you’ll get the chance to hear the steam engine chug along.
Livingston Junction is located at 1 Stonehaven Ln., Eureka Springs.
Livingston Junction is located at 1 Stonehaven Ln., Eureka Springs.
The excursion options vary by month for the train rides. Check the schedule or purchase tickets on their official websites: A&M: https://www.amrailroad.com/ and Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway: https://www.esnarailway.com/
Are you ready to board your train journey? Let us know about your Arkansas train adventures in the comments below!
For more ways to enjoy Arkansas’ beauty, check out these short and sweet hikes.
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