THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover breathtaking views and rich regional history aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s two-hour Meredith excursion. This scenic train ride offers comfortable seating, large windows, and flexible boarding for an unforgettable Lakes Region adventure.
Discover breathtaking views and rich regional history aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s two-hour Meredith excursion. This scenic train ride offers comfortable seating, large windows, and flexible boarding for an unforgettable Lakes Region adventure.
Book with Granite State Railway
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Granite State Railway · Meredith, New Hampshire
The Two-Hour Meredith Excursion Train invites travelers to experience the scenic charm and rich heritage of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. Departing from the heart of Meredith at 154 Main Street, this two-hour journey delivers sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee’s sparkling waters, forested shorelines, and rolling hills—a landscape shaped by glacial forces and vibrant with all-season appeal. This carefully curated ride perfectly balances leisure with exploration, making it an ideal outing for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.
Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, is a hub of natural beauty and recreation, surrounded by small towns and natural features that define New England’s rugged charm. The excursion train threads through this region’s stunning backdrops, offering passengers panoramic views through large open windows in comfortable coach seating. The coaches feature padded seats and, in some cars, tables—ideal for relaxed sightseeing or enjoying a snack along the way. Boarding options at Meredith, Weirs Beach, and Laconia offer flexibility for visitors based in nearby towns.
Beyond the scenery, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is a cornerstone of local history, retracing routes significant to New England’s development and preserving railroad heritage in a region where tourism and outdoor recreation are vital to the economy. It provides a unique vantage point on the Lakes Region that few other experiences can match, combining a mellow pace with the thrill of travel through a varied landscape marked by glacial lakes, rugged rock outcroppings, and thick northern forests.
The railroad also offers “The Leo,” a private caboose that can accommodate up to 10 guests, perfect for celebrations or intimate gatherings with lake views and an exclusive restroom onboard. Accessibility is thoughtfully addressed; the train is equipped with a wheelchair lift and can accommodate guests with mobility needs who notify staff in advance.
Visitors should prepare for a relaxed but weather-aware outing—windows open wide for fresh air, but dress in layers to stay comfortable. Advance reservations are recommended as seats fill quickly during peak travel seasons. This ride is smoke and pet-free (aside from service dogs), maintaining a clean environment for all. Whether you’re visiting to soak in fall foliage, summer lake vistas, or the tranquil winter light, the Meredith Excursion Train offers a distinctive way to savor New Hampshire’s outdoors without leaving comfort behind.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Some passenger coaches have restrooms available, but guests are encouraged to use station facilities before boarding.
You may bring small coolers with food and non-alcoholic drinks, but please remove all trash at the end of your ride.
Service and seeing-eye dogs are permitted, but personal pets are not allowed onboard.
Yes, a wheelchair lift is available; please call ahead to arrange assistance and accommodations.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow time for ticket processing and boarding.
Wi-Fi service is not provided on the train, and cell service can be spotty due to the rural surroundings.
The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad operates on historical routes dating back to the late 19th century, preserving a key part of the region's transportation history.
The railroad is committed to sustainable tourism practices, encouraging passengers to respect the natural environment and reduce waste during their excursions.
Granite State Railway, based in Lincoln, New Hampshire, operates scenic and themed rail experiences throughout New Hampshire's Lakes Region. The company offers a diverse roster of excursions that highlight the shorelines and vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee with convenient boarding at Meredith, Weirs Beach, and Laconia. Trips include short 45-minute leaf-peeper rides and longer coach and first-class excursions such as the Two-Hour Meredith Excursion and the One-Hour Weirs Beach Excursion. Seasonal specials include the Fall Foliage Special Train — a 4-hour coach journey that travels past Ashland Summit and local farms and includes a hot buffet lunch stop at the Common Man Inn & Spa. Family-focused offerings include the Pumpkin Express and Wicked Witch Express, while holiday programming features multiple Santa Express seating classes (Coach, First Class, Premier). Dining experiences are a hallmark of the lineup: the Pumpkin Express Turkey Dinner and the Meredith Turkey Dinner Train serve full carved turkey dinners on board, with the Pumpkin Express Turkey Dinner scheduled for October 24th. Adventure options extend beyond traditional railcars with a Scenic Rail Bike Excursion — a custom four-person rail bike five-mile round-trip departing from the historic Laconia Station along Lake Winnisquam. Granite State Railway emphasizes clear schedules, varied seating classes, seasonal programming, and family-friendly events. The combination of lakeside scenery, themed trains, and distinct ride options appeals to sightseers, families, and visitors seeking holiday and culinary train experiences in New Hampshire.
Book with Granite State Railway