Texas State Railroad, Palestine

The tracks that make up the Texas State Railroad have seen a lot of history. Originally used to transport iron and other goods around the flourishing state, the rails were eventually widened to accommodate passenger traffic. On July 4, 1976, in honor of America' bicentennial, the railroad was officially preserved as a state historical park. Today, it remains a vital piece of the state story, with rail tours and excursions that introduce each new generation of Texans to the story of their state's rail heritage. Read on to learn more about the railroad's current tours and travelers:

• Piney Woods Train Excursions: Running between the railroad's two Victorian depots in Palestine and Rusk, these tours offer visitors the chance to discover the charms of vintage rail travel; depending on their seating class, guests can take advantage of snack car service, a domed sightseer car, and plush upholstered seating while passing through the idyllic Texas countryside. Each train is pulled by a vintage steam or diesel engine.
• Seasonal Excursions: Each page of the calendar brings new tours to the railroad; popular autumn excursions include moonlight dinner trips, fall foliage tours, and trips to a nearby pumpkin patch.
• Rolling Stock: The railroad's tours are all powered by vintage steam and diesel engines from the golden age of railroads; the oldest dates back all the way to 1901.