When visitors think of the must-have characteristics of a classic theme park, there are a few attractions Guests look for immediately. Theme Park railroads or scaled-down trains slowing touring around or within their berm is certainly at the top of the list.
We can most likely give thanks to the two Walts’ – Walter Knott and Walt Disney -for modern theme parks, many zoos, and amusement parks incorporating new or vintage refurbished narrow-gauge railways around their parks. Walt Disney’s passion for model trains and railroads is well documented,
“I suppose I’ve always been in love with trains. As a small boy living on a farm near Marceline, Mo., I had a unique claim to fame: my Uncle Mike was engineer on the Santa Fe’s accommodation train that ran between Marceline and Fort Madison. That was something to brag about to my schoolmates at a time when railroads loomed large in the scheme of things and steam engines were formidable and exciting.” – Walt Disney
In 2011, The Walt Disney Family Museum has documented Walt’s passion and love for trains, something – per Walt – he was fascinated with starting at an early age and continued well into his late adult years at scale with the formation of the Disneyland Railroad in 1955.
Theme Parks and Amusement Parks With Railroads or Trains
Table of Contents
- Disneyland Railroad
- Hogwarts Express
- Walt Disney World Railroad
- Calico Railroad
- Busch Gardens Railroad
- Serengeti Express
- Frisco Silver Dollar Line
- Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad
- Dollywood Express
- Dry Gulch Railroad
- Silverwood Central Railroad
- Legoland Express
- Six Flags Railroad
- Kings Island and Miami Valley Railroad
- Tweetsie Railroad
- Wildlife Express Train
- Six Flags and Texas Railroad
From the early days of theme parks in the mid-20th Century to modern day parks, theme park Guests can enjoy slow, iconic rides on railroads within the following parks here in the U.S.:
Disneyland Railroad
Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, California): The Disneyland Railroad is a popular attraction that encircles Disneyland Park, taking visitors on a scenic journey through various themed lands.
- Ride duration: 18 – 20 minutes
- Track Gauge: 3 feet
- Track Length: 1.2 miles
- No. of Locomotives: 5
- Locomotive Power: Steam via fuel oil
✳️ Read More about the Disneyland Railroad’s History!
Hogwarts Express
Universal Orlando Resort (Orlando, Florida): The Hogwarts Express takes guests on a magical journey between two theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Here’s some information about the Hogwarts Express: The Hogwarts Express is based on the famous train from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
It provides an immersive experience that transports guests from the London-inspired King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade Village in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, or vice versa. As guests board the Hogwarts Express, they step into a themed train station that recreates the ambiance of the wizarding world.
Inside the train carriages, each compartment offers a unique window view featuring scenes inspired by the Harry Potter stories. Guests can enjoy the views while being entertained by characters from the films. As guests board the Hogwarts Express, they step into a themed train station that recreates the ambiance of the wizarding world. Inside the train carriages, each compartment offers a unique window view featuring scenes inspired by the Harry Potter stories.
Walt Disney World Railroad
Walt Disney World Resort – Magic Kingdom (Lake Buena Vista, Florida): Inspired by the historic steam trains of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Walt Disney World Railroad is a fully operational steam-powered locomotive transports visitors on a nostalgic adventure through the heart of the Magic Kingdom. The railroad features a picturesque route with stops at three uniquely themed stations: Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland.
As guests board the train, they are whisked away on a leisurely ride that offers breathtaking views of the park’s landscapes, including lush greenery, shimmering waterways, and charming vignettes. The Walt Disney World Railroad provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the park, allowing visitors to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Disney magic at a slower pace.
- Ride duration: 18 – 20 minutes
- Track Gauge: 3 feet
- Track Length: 1.5 miles
- No. of Locomotives: 5
- Locomotive Power: Steam via fuel oil
Calico Railroad
Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park, California): Knott’s Berry Farm has the Calico Railroad, formally opened in 1952, a steam-powered train that takes passengers on a 20-minute ride around the park’s perimeter and through the Ghost Town.
- Ride duration: 18 – 20 minutes
- Track Gauge: 3 feet
- Track Length: 0.625 miles
- No. of Locomotives: 2
- Locomotive Power: Steam
Busch Gardens Railroad
Busch Gardens (Williamsburg, Virginia): The Busch Gardens Railroad is nestled within the enchanting Busch Gardens Williamsburg theme park in Virginia. It offers visitors a delightful journey through the park’s picturesque landscapes, providing a unique perspective on the park’s attractions and natural beauty. The railroad features beautifully restored steam locomotives that chug along a scenic track, transporting guests to different sections of the park with charming stations strategically placed throughout.
Passengers can board the train at England Station and embark on a memorable adventure. As the train sets off, it traverses lush gardens, serene waterways, and vibrant themed areas, providing a leisurely and immersive experience for guests of all ages. The narrated journey offers fascinating insights into the park’s rich history and highlights various landmarks and attractions along the way.
Serengeti Express
Busch Gardens (Tampa, Florida): The Serengeti Express is a captivating safari-themed train ride that takes visitors on an immersive journey through the wild landscapes of Busch Gardens’ Serengeti Plain. Located in the heart of the park, this popular attraction offers an exciting and educational experience for guests of all ages. As you board the vintage-style steam train, you’ll feel a sense of adventure and anticipation. As the train sets off, you’ll be transported through a picturesque landscape, passing by lush vegetation, expansive savannahs, and rocky outcrops that mimic the stunning beauty of Africa’s Serengeti region.
Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides provide fascinating commentary about the wildlife and conservation efforts at the park. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of magnificent animals like giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and rhinos roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Frisco Silver Dollar Line
Silver Dollar City (Branson, Missouri): Silver Dollar City features the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train, a vintage locomotive that provides guests with a scenic trip through the Ozark Mountains.
Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad
Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio): Cedar Point has the Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad, offering a relaxing ride around the park’s perimeter and providing views of Lake Erie.
Dollywood Express
Dollywood Express, a coal-fired steam engine that takes visitors on a five-mile journey through the Smoky Mountains. Image courtesy Dollywood.
Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee): The Dollywood Express at Dollywood Theme Park, located in the heart of the picturesque Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. This historic steam-powered train takes visitors on a nostalgic journey through the park’s scenic surroundings, offering a delightful blend of natural beauty and old-fashioned charm. The Dollywood Express boasts an authentic 110-ton coal-fired steam engine, meticulously restored to its original glory, and a series of vintage passenger cars that transport guests of all ages back in time.
As the train chugs along its one-and-a-half-mile track, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, dense forests, and tranquil streams. The gentle rhythmic chugging of the engine and the soothing clickety-clack of the wheels create a relaxing ambiance, making the Dollywood Express a perfect opportunity to unwind and take in the sights.
Dry Gulch Railroad
Hersheypark (Hershey, Pennsylvania): Dry Gulch Railroad in Hersheypark features the Miniature Railroad, a scaled-down replica of an actual train that provides a delightful journey through a miniaturized version of the park.
Silverwood Central Railroad
Silverwood Theme Park (Athol, Idaho): Silverwood Theme Park features the Silverwood Central Railroad, a narrow-gauge train that takes passengers on a scenic journey through the park’s picturesque surroundings.
Legoland Express
Legoland California Resort (Carlsbad, California): Legoland California Resort has the Legoland Express, a train ride that travels around the park, allowing visitors to see impressive Lego sculptures and attractions.
Six Flags Railroad
Six Flags Over Georgia (Austell, Georgia): Six Flags Over Georgia features the Six Flags Railroad, a steam-powered train that takes guests on a leisurely, 10 mph trip – over 1 mile in length through the park with stops at the Rabun Gap Railroad Station.
Kings Island and Miami Valley Railroad
Kings Island (Mason, Ohio): The Kings Island and Miami Valley Railroad is a beloved attraction nestled within the exciting world of Kings Island amusement park in Ohio. This nostalgic railroad takes visitors on a scenic journey through the park, providing a charming and relaxing experience for guests of all ages. As guests step aboard the meticulously crafted steam-powered locomotive, they are transported back in time to an era when trains ruled the transportation landscape. The train chugs along a picturesque route, winding through lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, and themed sections of the park, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective of Kings Island.
As the train meanders along its tracks, passengers can take in the sights and immerse themselves in the rich history and atmosphere of the park. The attention to detail is evident in the meticulously designed trains and the carefully curated surroundings, which transport guests to a bygone era. The Kings Island and Miami Valley Railroad provides a delightful break from the thrill rides and offers a leisurely way to explore the park. It is a charming and nostalgic attraction that captures the hearts of visitors, offering a timeless experience that adds to the magic and allure of Kings Island amusement park.
Tweetsie Railroad
Tweetsie Railroad (Blowing Rock, North Carolina): The Tweetsie Railroad is a beloved attraction nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Founded in 1957, it holds the distinction of being the state’s first theme park and a cherished piece of its cultural heritage. The centerpiece of the park is a historic steam locomotive, affectionately known as “Tweetsie,” which takes visitors on an enchanting ride through the scenic mountain landscape.
Wildlife Express Train
Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Bay Lake, Florida): The Wildlife Express Train offers guests a unique opportunity to explore the park’s backstage areas and discover the inner workings of an authentic African wildlife reserve. As you board the train, you’ll be transported to the lush Harambe Wildlife Reserve, a sprawling sanctuary teeming with exotic animals and breathtaking landscapes. The journey begins as the train chugs along the picturesque savannah, providing guests with magnificent views of giraffes gracefully roaming, antelopes prancing, and zebras basking in the golden sunlight.
Six Flags and Texas Railroad
Six Flags and Texas Railroad (Arlington, Texas): The Texas Railroad at Six Flags is an iconic attraction that takes visitors on a nostalgic journey through the heart of Texas. As one of the park’s original and most beloved rides, the Texas Railroad offers a delightful experience for guests of all ages. The train ride features a charming steam locomotive that chugs along a scenic track, immersing passengers in the rich history and beauty of the Lone Star State. With its meticulously designed train cars and meticulously crafted landscapes, the Texas Railroad captures the spirit of adventure and discovery that defined the American frontier.
Related Articles
- C&O Steam Locomotive Greenbrier No. 614: 75-Year Legacy and History of Themed Train Excursions
- What Is New At Dollywood
- Best Guide to Harry Potter Wands at Universal Studios
About the Author
J. Daniel Jenkins, RA, NCARB, LEED AP is a licensed Architect, a published author, a former Walt Disney Imagineer, and former theme park and themed entertainment design consultant with over twenty four years of Commercial + Themed Entertainment design, design management, and A&E subject matter expertise. Jenkins’ themed entertainment experience includes projects in: the Magic Kingdom Fantasyland Expansion, the Disney’s Hollywood Studios Expansion, and Universal’s new Epic Unvierse theme park. Currently, Jenkins is President | Owner of Holihoon Media LLC, and is also the Founder | Chief Editor of themeparkarchitect.com who’s goal is to teach individuals about theme park architecture, engineering, and design, how to become theme park architects and designers, and discuss themed entertainment centric topics and travel from an insider’s persepctive.