Ride The Rails Like Royalty In The Presidential Parlor Car At Texas State Railroad
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 16, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Treating yourself is necessary every now and again, and what better way than riding the rails like royalty? Texas State Railroad has two Presidential cars with luxury amenities like complimentary appetizers, premium alcoholic beverages, and stately decor that’ll make you feel like a VIP.
All aboard the Texas State Railroad, a moving time capsule that whisks passengers back to a bygone era when train travel was new and exciting. You'll embark on a four-hour journey through the sprawling Piney Woods landscape, marveling at wildlife, over two dozen bridges, a vintage turntable, and foliage that changes with the seasons.
Guests have seven different seating options to choose from, each one offering its own unique experience. Pictured here is first-class, which features upholstered benches, chairs, or booths surrounding four-person tabletops, plus alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase.
There are two Presidential cars — this one, #1511, is for adults only and has accommodated every sitting Texas Governor since Lyndon B. Johnson was President. Elegant and Victorian-inspired, the car boasts amenities such as a Champagne toast upon boarding, premium liquor delivered to your seat, and complimentary appetizers.
Picture windows and easy access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform are additional luxuries afforded to Presidential car passengers. Tickets for this car are $94.95 each.
Presidential Car #42 is family-friendly and features comfy sofas and tables for two instead of leather chairs. A complimentary Champagne or sparkling cider toast is provided before the train sets off, and snacks are served throughout the trip. Tickets for car #42 range from $54.95-$79.95.
Other seating options include the caboose, open-air coach, locomotive ride along, and Sky High Observation Dome. The latter, pictured here, is a glass-top car with Champagne, hors d'oeuvres, and unadulterated views of the beautiful surroundings.
So, whether you want to ride like royalty or enjoy a more modest outing, there's something for everyone at Texas State Railroad. A narrated history lesson, breathtaking scenery, great food and drink, and spacious, comfy seating — what more could you want?
