We all know what a huge impact railroads had on the history of our country, but some folks are true train lovers. Florida has a lot of unique and wonderful railroad history. Train travel’s heyday might be over, but there are still plenty of places across the state where that history comes alive. With eight stops and more than 10 hours of driving time, this trip tailored for train enthusiasts would make a very memorable weekend. Of course, you can always remove whatever stops you like to shorten the driving time.
You can view the interactive map for this road trip here.
This magical trip recreates the beloved children's book, departing from the Tavares station en route to the North Pole. Guests will enjoy hearing a reading of the classic holiday story, listening to Christmas carols, sipping hot cocoa, and meeting Santa Claus.
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2. Central Florida Railroad Museum of Winter Garden
This museum, housed in the old Tavares and Gulf Rail Company building located in downtown Winter Garden, holds a large collection of authentic railroad items. There are rails and spikes actually used in constructing the rail system and scale models of train systems from around the country.
If you love luxury as much as you love history, you will adore this 55-room Beaux-Arts-style mansion, built by oil tycoon Henry Flagler. This jaw-dropping historic mansion is full of artwork and antique furniture. The highlight of the museum for railfans is Flagler's personal railcar, which is housed in the gorgeous Beaux-Arts-style pavilion. The pavilion itself is also stunning, as it is designed to look like a 19th-century railway palace.
This unique show takes place on a real F-unit train that runs on the Seminole Gulf Railway. The train travels about 40 miles round trip over 3 and a half hours, while you enjoy a five-course meal and a murder mystery show. Guests are encouraged to participate in trying to solve the mystery.
Known as South Florida's Finest Railroad Museum, GCRM is home to more than 40 historic railcars, including the "Ferdinand Magellan" Presidential Railcar, better known as U.S. Car No. 1.
At this museum in Parrish, you actually get to ride the exhibits. There's an ever-changing list of events, including everything from a murder mystery dinner train to holiday celebrations.
7. Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, Plant City
This museum located in the historic train depot in downtown Plant City is small, but admission is free. Visitors can view an impressive collection of railroad memorabilia, including
a completely restored Seaboard Air line caboose.
This restaurant in Sarasota is like no other. It's housed in old train cars that were once used in the Ringling circus, which made Sarasota its winter home for many years. The owner, Bob, doesn't just prepare delicious meals, he also loves discussing all kinds of circus history with guests.
