Posted in Mississippi
September 12, 2015
Board These 10 Beautiful Trains In Mississippi For An Unforgettable Experience
Sure, trains may not be as popular of a mode of transportation as they were years ago but that doesn’t mean they’ve completely lost their appeal. In addition to train tours that run through Mississippi, there are several historically significant trains scattered throughout the state. From stationary versions to fully-functioning ones, here are ten Mississippi trains that provide an experience you won’t forget.
Built in 1970, this caboose was repainted and renumbered several times over the years. By the early 1990’s, thanks to efforts by local citizens, the caboose was restored to its original color scheme and number, and is now located at the famous crossroads in Corinth.
In the 1940’s, railways began switching from from diesel to electric power. It was during this time that the Columbus and Greenville Railway (CAGY) purchased new locomotives from the Baldwin Company. After serving the railway for a number of years, this locomotive was retired and put on permanent display in Columbus. The only other CAGY locomotive of this kind is on display in Illinois.
Offered by Uncommon Journeys, the Magnolia Holiday package includes travel from New Orleans to Chicago with several stops along the way, two of which are in Natchez and Oxford. The deluxe motorcoach offers the utmost in comfort as well as fine dining and deft service.
Once part of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF), this caboose is now on display at Tupelo’s Oren Dunn City Museum. The railway itself dates back to the mid 1800’s and, as of today, BNSF owns and operates track in 28 states.
Not your typical train, the “Shrimp Train” as it’s known by locals, has been in service for more than 50 years. The 90-minute train tour takes visitors on a journey through Biloxi’s history, beginning with the famous Biloxi Lighthouse.
In celebration of the Christmas season, the Delta Christmas Express Rail-line will be offering a Christmas light tour from November 28th through December 19th, which will travel north to south from Hopson Commissary towards downtown Clarksdale. The fun-filled holiday tour will be narrarated and accompanied by classic Christmas music. For more information, visit the Mississippi Delta Railroad website.
Located across from the Amtrak station in downtown Jackson, the Hilton Garden Inn offers one of the most unique ways to view the state - a train tour. The tour, which runs from Biloxi to Meridian, is a great way to do some sightseeing while experiencing Mississippi history and culture.
Held at the Mississippi Expo Center and Holiday Train Station, Columbia’s Christmas Train offers fun for the entire family! The interactive train ride, which runs from Thanksgiving until Christmas, tells the story of the true meaning of the holiday. Additional information and tickets can be found here.
Departing from Batesville, the Polar Express train ride is a must this holiday season. From golden tickets to dancing chefs serving hot cocoa, the experience is magical from beginning to end. Perfect for the entire family, the Polar Express will surely become an annual tradition! For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.
Running over 1,300 miles from New York to New Orleans, this route makes for some great scenery, such as this shot taken in Lumberton. If you’re looking for a fulfilling experience this is the train for you as it passes through more states than any other Amtrak route.
I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to ride the rails! Have you visited/travelled on any of these trains? If so, tell us about your experience below. Also, good train pictures are hard to find, so if you have any, please share.
