A lot of the time when people think about New York’s railways, they picture the chaos of New York City’s crowded stations, when in reality there are much more charming rail adventures waiting for you upstate. Some may choose to head north to quite literally ride the rails with the popular rail bike company in North Creek, but if you’re looking to take a historic train while you still can – then there’s no better place to head than the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
In a time where it seems like more and more of our favorite historic train rides are being shut down, many of us are longing for a railroad adventure more than ever. If you’re looking to see the Adirondack Region in a whole new way, then keep reading to discover the variety of destinations and themed train rides that the Adirondack Scenic Railroad has planned for you.
A historic attraction that’s been offering rides along New York’s railroads since 1992, the Adirondack Scenic Railroad is a timeless adventure that residents of all ages can enjoy.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
The Adirondack Scenic Railroad offers train rides that depart from either Utica’s historic Union Station or the Thendara Station in Herkimer County.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
Both stations feature similar train rides, where you’ll be taken over the rivers and through the woods of the Adirondacks as you make your way along this railroad.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
The Adirondack Scenic Railroad’s vintage train cars also feature a Car Cafe, where you can purchase light fare and snacks for the ride.
Michele O/TripAdvisor
Throughout the year the railroad features family-favorite events like their Meet The Eastery Bunny train ride, The Polar Express, their Santa Train, Pumpkin Train, and Fall Foliage ride that will give you a day full of memories you’ll never forget.
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During the summer one of our favorite train rides departs from the Thendara Station - the River and Rail Ride!
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
Departing from the Thendara Station, you’ll ride all the way up to Old Forge where you’ll stop to get out on the Middle Branch of the Moose River in the Adirondacks.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook You and your vessel of choice will take a ride on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad for a day full of fun. Giving you the opportunity to explore the Adirondacks in two unique ways, you’ll spend four hours out on the water and then enjoy a train ride back to Thendara.
The variety in train rides continues, with both the Union Station and Thendara Station offering Beer & Wine Train Rides, with select dates twice a month during 2018 available.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
Passengers who are looking to enjoy a meal bigger than what they’ll find available at the Car Cafe can book the Utica Station’s Soda Fountain Lunch Train. Passengers will ride up to Remsen and stop for lunch at the 1950’s themed eatery - The Soda Fountain.
Andrey V/TripAdvisor
From quaint train rides that take you through New York’s beautiful scenery to themed rides that offer something extra special, there are no better rails to ride than the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook If you’re looking to dive into the themed adventures of the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, you’ll most likely want to look at what the Thendara Station has to offer. Throughout this year you’ll find Princess and Superhero Train Rides, Gang Train Robbery Rides during July and August, Railroad Hobo Days, and even Haunted History Evening Excursions!
New Yorkers who want something a bit more simple that lets them focus on the good old days of riding the rails can see what Utica’s Union Station has to offer. Here you’ll find rides that take you from Utica up to Big Moose, the longest scenic trip that the railroad has - talk about a gorgeous ride!
To learn more about the Adirondack Scenic Railroad and to book a reservation for one of their train rides, click here.
What’s your favorite train ride to take in the Empire State? For more train-themed attractions, read about how This Train Station In New York Is Actually A Restaurant And You Need To Visit!
Adirondack Scenic Railroad/Facebook
Michele O/TripAdvisor
KPMcClave/TripAdvisor
You and your vessel of choice will take a ride on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad for a day full of fun. Giving you the opportunity to explore the Adirondacks in two unique ways, you’ll spend four hours out on the water and then enjoy a train ride back to Thendara.
Andrey V/TripAdvisor
If you’re looking to dive into the themed adventures of the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, you’ll most likely want to look at what the Thendara Station has to offer. Throughout this year you’ll find Princess and Superhero Train Rides, Gang Train Robbery Rides during July and August, Railroad Hobo Days, and even Haunted History Evening Excursions!
New Yorkers who want something a bit more simple that lets them focus on the good old days of riding the rails can see what Utica’s Union Station has to offer. Here you’ll find rides that take you from Utica up to Big Moose, the longest scenic trip that the railroad has - talk about a gorgeous ride!
To learn more about the Adirondack Scenic Railroad and to book a reservation for one of their train rides, click here.
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