Calling all train enthusiasts and history buffs! We’ve mapped out a route to the best train-themed sites and attractions in the state. From museums and train rides to a sweet shop that’s housed in an old caboose, this dreamy train-themed trip will take you on the journey of a lifetime. All aboard!
The route is 698 miles, roundtrip. It will take about 12 hours to complete, not including the time spent at each stop.
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1. Martin and Sue King Railroad Heritage Museum (Cleveland)
Sure to delight train enthusiasts of all ages, this museum houses intricate displays, one of the largest O-gauge model railroads in the Southeast, a life-size caboose, and lots of railroad-related memorabilia and artifacts. The best part of all is that it’s FREE to visit. For more information, click here.
2. The Tracks (Winona)
Please note, The Tracks has permanently closed.
A train depot turned restaurant, The Tracks is the perfect place to grab a bite on your train-themed journey. It’s much more than a great dining spot, though. The eatery acts as somewhat of a railroad museum, as it boasts a variety of antiques and memorabilia on the inside and a stationary train outside. For more information, click here.
3. Merci Train Boxcar (Jackson)
In the 1940s, France gifted the U.S. with the Merci Train. It consisted of 49 boxcars – one for each state in the U.S. and one to be shared between Washington D.C. and Hawaii. Today, these boxcars are on display in several states across the nation, including Mississippi. The historic boxcar, which can be viewed from dusk until dawn, is located at the old Gulf, Mobile, & Ohio Railroad Depot. For more information, click here.
4. Hilton Garden Inn (Jackson)
A great place to turn in for the night, the Hilton Garden Inn is just across the street from the Jackson Amtrak Station. Select a room on the west side of the hotel, and you’ll be treated to excellent views of the trains as they come and go. Don’t worry, though. The rooms are sound-proofed, so you won’t be disturbed by train-related noises. For more information, click here.
5. McComb Railroad Museum (McComb)
McComb Railroad Museum has been dubbed the "best rail museum south of Chicago," and it’s definitely deserving of the recognition. Fun right from the start, visitors enter the museum through an original Illinois Central passenger terminal. Other highlights include an extensive collection of incredibly well-preserved memorabilia as well as a restored steam locomotive and other rolling stock. For more information, click here.
6. Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum (Gulfport)
There’s so much to see and do at this museum, which boasts over 200 years of railroad history. In addition to 85 running model trains, the museum is home to the largest LEGO railroad display in the state and four outdoor riding trains. For more information, click here.
7. Caboose Cones (Ocean Springs)
There’s no sweeter way to end your railroad-inspired adventure than with a visit to Caboose Cones! Housed in an old L&N caboose, the sweet shop serves up a variety of treats, including sno-balls, ice cream, and more. For more information, click here.
So, did you know about all of these train-themed attractions? Did we miss your favorite? Tell us!
Looking for another fun route? Click here.
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