Texas State Railroad State Historical Park

Pros: Beautiful scenery and a history lesson all in one.
Cons: It is a long day trip.

The historic Texas State Railroad Historical Park is like taking a trip back in time. My grandmother would take my children and myself to ride this train as many times as she could. I remember many trips aboard the wonderful steam engines and...

Pros: A close up view of steam engines
Cons: Its a 4-hour trip, so plan to stay in the area.

Our oldest son (who was six at the time) brought along his engineer's hat since he often told us he wanted to be a train engineer.

Taking him for a ride on the Texas State Railroad was about as close as we could get him to his dream. Visitors...

Pros: Historic railroad in a great, beautiful setting
Cons: None

East Texas almost lost a landmark recently. But thanks to, in large parts, the efforts of local people pushing their elected representatives, the Rusk-Palestine State Park, with its vintage steam train will continue to be a landmark for the area. Located ...

Pros: Nice Train Ride Through the East Texas Woods.
Cons: Long Time and not that much to look at.

Texas State Railroad State Historical Park at Rusk & Palestine State Parks, Nice Steam Train Ride through the East Texas Woods, Park at Rusk has small lake and Train Station, Camping spots had nice space and most had good shade. The Main Attraction is...

Pros: Great scenery, history and enjoyment - a great way to bring a family together
Cons: A little far for a one day turn around trip, but well worth it!

The steam engine train ride was an unforgettable experience - both my husband and I very much enjoyed the scenery, including the old fashion bridges and the beautiful dogwoods, as well as the history lesson both during the train ride and after the ride itself as well as the down time at the midway point where we had a picnic luncheon and sat under the trees listening to the instrumental music provided. What an experience! A great one to share with the ones you love!