There’s A Surprisingly Fun Scenic Train Ride Tucked Away In This South Carolina Park

Some may think of the town of Simpsonville as only a sleepy little bedroom suburb of Greenville. But nothing, nothing could be farther from the truth! This thriving community in the Upstate is home to many wonderful attractions, delightful restaurants, shops, and galleries. Among them is the totally cool scenic train ride that is fun for the entire family. Come along as we show you all the fun that awaits!

Simpsonville actually sprang up in the 1820s because it was located at the crossroads of Old Stage Road and Georgia Road (formerly the Cherokee Trail).

Then, in 1886, the railroad came to town as the Greenville and Laurens Railroad expanded down from Greenville. It was a period of quick expansion for railroads and the G&L quickly got absorbed by another rail line, and then another. Through it all, though, Simpsonville's ties to railroading were formed, especially since the line ran right down Main Street.

Today, one of the most popular places in town is Heritage Park.

It is home to a massive sports and playground complex, and it is here that the Heritage Park Railway pays tribute to Simpsonville's railroad history.

The railway offers a fun and affordable adventure.

For a mere $3, visitors can take a ride on this train pulled by a miniature steam engine built to replicate the engines that pulled trains right through the heart of Simpsonville beginning more than 100 years ago. Families with kids age two and under should know that each kiddo rides for free with an accompanying adult.

Once aboard this scenic train ride, the magic begins!

The journey includes passing through Heritage Park on this crazy-eight rail line built just for the Heritage Park Railway.

As you make your way slowly around the park...

...you'll meander past replicas of famous landmarks around the area.

Sit back and let the wind blow through your hair!

We have no doubt that you'll completely enjoy the open-air cars on this miniature train.

Keep in mind that the train runs only seasonally. It's open on weekends from April through December.

Hours of operation are generally Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. It will make your weekend outing so much fun!

If you were to do a search for “scenic railroads near me,” this spot/one of these spots would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

Please note that the train runs as weather permits. If you'd like to check the operational status of this awesome scenic train ride on the day you're headed to Simpsonville, the best place to do so is on the Heritage Park Railway website or the Heritage Park Railway Facebook page.

Have you ever embarked upon this exciting South Carolina train ride? If so, we'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below! If you're interested in staying or night or two in Greenville, be sure to consider the Residence Inn Greenville Downtown.

You can also discover other charming boutique community adventures by reading 10 Small Towns In South Carolina That Offer Nothing But Peace And Quiet.

If you’re still in the mood for more Palmetto State adventures, take a look at this video: