No matter what your age, there’s something undeniably magical about hopping aboard a train and venturing through gorgeous landscapes. Here in Michigan, we’re lucky to host several incredible railroad companies that offer one-of-a-kind day trips. Grab your tickets and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Check out these awesome destinations where you can experience the best train rides in Michigan. Looking for fun stuff to do in Michigan? Look no further:

1. Little River Railroad
29 W Park Ave, Coldwater, MI 49036, USA
Facebook/Little River Railroads
This family-oriented railroad excursion, which departs from Coldwater, offers all sorts of special events throughout the year. On a typical day, you can purchase round-trip tickets between the Coldwater station and Quincy, a ride that lasts approximately 45 minutes. In April, be sure to check out the one-of-a-kind Easter Bunny Express, which comes complete with an egg hunt stop for the kiddos! Check out the official website for more information about Little River Railroad.
2. Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad
6140 N Bray Rd, Flint, MI 48505, USA
Facebook/Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad
Embark on a 40-minute journey on a genuine steam locomotive. During your trip, you’ll be stunned by views of beautiful Mott Lake, which adds an element of natural beauty to your experience on the Huckleberry Railroad. This train ride departs from Crossroads Village in Flint, where you’ll be treated to all sorts of historical replicas and exhibits. Make a day of it!
3. Steam Railroading Institute
405 S Washington St, Owosso, MI 48867, USA
Facebook/Steam Railroading Institute
Venture to Owosso and hop aboard a train departing from the Steam Railroading Institute. During the winter months, this organization is well-known for its Polar Express ride, which takes passengers of all ages on a Christmas-themed journey to an annual holiday festival in the Village of Ashley.

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4. Tahquamenon Falls Wilderness Excursion
7195 Co Rd 381, Newberry, MI 49868, USA
Facebook/Tahquamenon Falls Riverboat Tours & the Famous Toonerville Trolley
This breathtaking journey takes passengers into the heart of the natural wonderland surrounding Tahquamenon Falls. As part of the Wilderness Excursion, step aboard the beloved Toonerville Trolley. During this ride, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at all sorts of Michigan wildlife - including bears! Once your train ride ends, you can continue your journey by boarding a riverboat that leads to majestic views of the Falls.
5. Amtrak Passenger Trains
Facebook/Amtrak Michigan Services
Amtrak is certainly the most famous name in passenger trains, and a ride on one of their Michigan-based railroads will never disappoint. Check out the Wolverine, which transports riders between Detroit, Pontiac, and Chicago. Along the way, you’ll pass through all sorts of Michigan towns and cities that will keep you staring out the window in delight. Another favorite is the Pere Marquette, which travels across the state on its route between Chicago to Grand Rapids.
6. Coopersville and Marne Railway
311 Danforth St, Coopersville, MI 49404, USA
TripAdvisor/Jack F.
As its name suggests, this historic railroad runs between the towns of Coopersville and Marne, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Grand Rapids. During your seven-mile ride, you’ll pass creeks, bridges, and even follow the path of I-96 for a few minutes. There’s always something new to see on this railroad, and they offer plenty of fun-filled events throughout the year — including an Easter-themed Bunny Train, which begins on the first of April! Check out the official website for more information.

Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of locomotives or a lifelong fan of railroads, there’s undoubtedly a ride to suit your needs here in the Great Lakes State. Have you stepped aboard any of these amazing train trips in Michigan? Do you have a favorite of these best train rides in Michigan? We’d love to hear your stories and experiences in the comment section.

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More to Explore

Train Rides In Michigan

Andrea Limke | June 20, 2019

What are the best scenic train rides in Michigan?

Some of the best train rides in Michigan, mentioned in the list above, are all scenic in their own way, including:

  • The Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad is especially scenic as it chugs past Mott Lake.
  • The Tahquamenon Falls Wilderness Excursion may not be one of the typical train trips in Michigan, but with the opportunity to see so much natural beauty and even wildlife, it is definitely one of the most scenic.
  • The Little River Railroad is also a relaxing way to take in Michigan's scenery.

What are the best family-friendly train rides in Michigan?

All of these train trips in Michigan are ideal for families! Children love trains just as much as adults and many of these train trips in Michigan cater to all ages. The Little River Railroad, as mentioned above, is particularly great for families with kids. Also, be sure to check out the Steam Railroading Institute around the holidays for a Christmas train in Michigan - a family outing that's bound to create long-lasting memories.

Are there any mystery dinner train rides in Michigan?

If you enjoy a little mystery with your train ride, check out The Old Road Dinner Train in Blissfield. The train ride is the most popular of the ones offered by this station and it makes for a great evening out. The trip includes your dinner, as well as an entertaining (and mysterious) show that is bound to keep you on your toes.

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