This excursion takes passengers on a journey through the impressive Piney Woods of East Texas and 135 years of history. Unplug for an experience where history, nature and adventure meet.
The Piney Woods Express Diesel Excursion is powered by restored FP9 passenger units, TSR 125 and/or TSR 126. These remarkably restored engines aren’t just for show! General Motors built 481 of the FP9 and FP7 locomotives to haul passengers during the “Golden Age” of streamliners. From the moment one steps aboard a vintage 1920s car, history comes alive. Relaxed seating, thoughtful décor and friendly, responsive car attendants add to the ambiance of the scenic journey afforded by travelers a century ago.
This 4-hour round-trip train excursion departs from the historic Palestine Rail Depot and travels to our Rusk Rail Depot, where guests will deboard the train for an approximate 1 hour and 20-minute layover. During the layover, guests will be able to have lunch, explore the grounds or take in some history visiting the interior of the depot as well as our gift shop. We have multiple seating and pricing options for this excursion.
Most cars are climate-controlled and have restrooms, along with access to our concession car stocked with snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. All seats have views along the Piney Woods route, with music to highlight the trip. Seven different accommodations are offered on the Piney Woods Express Excursion: Private Caboose, Presidential 1511, Presidential 42 Couches, Presidential 42 Table and Chairs (for two), Dome, First Class, and Open-Air Coach. We also offer an ADA-compliant coach Car. Locomotive Cab Rides are also available on these excursions. Please call our reservations desk at 855-632-7729 for details on a locomotive cab ride or to book in our ADA-compliant coach.
ADA-Compliant Car Available– Please contact our Reservations Desk directly at 855-632-7729.
A $3.00 Historical Preservation Fee will be added to the individual ticket rate at checkout. This fee goes directly towards, our depots and the railroad and is used to protect, enhance buildings, places and objects of historical and cultural significance.
Please see further details in our FAQ section. This car must be booked by calling our reservations desk directly at 855-632-7729.
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Because of special, incidental or consequential situations that may be out of our control, Texas State Railroad reserves the right to adjust our operation between the date of your booking and the day of departure. These changes could include (but not be limited to): locomotive power for the day, passenger car assignments, layover and/or meal time during the four-hour ride and departure and/or arrival times. Thanking you in advance for your consideration.
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