Best Kid-Friendly Train Trips Near Atlanta

Get out of town for the day or plan an overnight trip with these train experiences in Atlanta and beyond. Reservations are required, so make your plans now.

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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson City, N.C.
Admire breathtaking views of the countryside of Western North Carolina, and enjoy a boxed lunch or dining in the first class cars.

Tennessee Valley Railroad

Chattanooga, Tenn.
This railroad is celebrating its 60th anniversary with special events in October. Other rides include a short-line train, a loop around the Hiawassee River and a Dinner Train.

Blue Ridge, Ga.
Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, you will be sure to get some great views. Start by entering the historic depot built in 1905 to board your train, the train tours go around the Toccoa River and to the towns of McCaysville, Ga. and Copperhill, Tenn.

SAM Shoreline Excursion Train

Travel to Jimmy Carter’s childhood home by train, explore the museum and sample peanut butter treats. Even explore the Georgia Rural Telephone Museum. The variety of trips include stops in towns such as Americus, Leslie, Plains and Archery depending on schedule and time of the year.

Tweetsie Railroad

Blowing Rock, N.C.
This amusement park has rides of all kinds, live entertainment and a petting zoo. Several themed trips available. Check website for upcoming special events.

Close to Home:

Scenic Railway at Stone Mountain Park

Climb aboard the full-size locomotive from the 1940s with open-air cars that will take you on a five-mile excursion around the mountain. Marvel at beautiful views of Stone Mountain and the surrounding landscape. See website for schedule. Included with an All-Attractions Pass.

Southeastern Railway Museum

Explore many pieces of historic steam and diesel locomotives in Duluth. Kids can pretend to be an engineer for the day while they explore train cabooses, see giant wheels and more. There is an antique miniature train that runs on the museum grounds; check website for schedule.

The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

Head to Kennesaw to experience the history of railroads in the South through models and hands-on activities. Kids can use telegraph stations to send messages via Morse Code or drive a replica train in the Play Motion Train Simulator. Check website for schedule.

North Georgia Live Steamers

These miniature trains in Conyers are one-eighth the size of full-size railroads, and passengers can ride right on top! The live steam, electric or gas powered trains operate like real locomotives for a fun, realistic train adventure. Check website for next ride days.