Georgia’s scenic train rides are some of the best ways to experience the state’s natural beauty while also enjoying a nostalgic form of travel. From the mountains to the coast, Georgia’s train tours showcase intriguing landscapes, historic small towns, and iconic attractions while also sharing stories about local history and how the state was shaped by the railroads.

No visit to the northwest Georgia town of Blue Ridge is complete without a ride along the Toccoa River to the state line on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. And, one of the best ways to explore southwest Georgia is on the Historic SAM Shortline Railway, which stops in several small towns, including Plains, home of 39th President Jimmy Carter. Several Georgia attractions feature shorter train rides, such as the 5-mile Scenic Railroad ride around Stone Mountain Park near Atlanta, and the 45-minute railroad tour at Okefenokee Swamp Park in Waycross. Create special memories during the holidays on seasonal train rides throughout the state, featuring live entertainment, storytelling, caroling, beloved holiday characters and sweet treats.

Complement your train rides by learning more about Georgia’s railroad history at train museums, including the Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah and the Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel & Museum in Tunnel Hill. And see historic locomotives up close at attractions like Atlanta History Center and Thronateeska Heritage Center in Albany. For true rail fans, several Georgia towns have train viewing platforms where you can wave to real-life working conductors on trains carrying freight as part of the country's modern-day transportation network.

Plan your next train adventure in Georgia with the ideas below!