Enjoy a scenic 134-mile vintage train journey from Springdale to Van Buren through Arkansas’s Ozark Mountains. Take in stunning landscapes, historic tunnels, and a charming town layover on this unique outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours round trip including layover
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for most travelers seeking a relaxed experience.
Wildlife
History
The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad follows historic routes originally built in the late 19th century, reflecting important developments in the region's rail transport.
Conservation
The railroad works with local conservation groups to promote sustainable tourism and protect the surrounding natural habitats of the Boston Mountains.
Arkansas & Missouri Railroad
Enjoy a scenic 134-mile vintage train journey from Springdale to Van Buren through Arkansas’s Ozark Mountains. Take in stunning landscapes, historic tunnels, and a charming town layover on this unique outdoor experience.
Arkansas & Missouri Railroad operates seasonal and themed excursion trains out of Springdale, Arkansas. The railroad offers a variety of public events and scenic trips that highlight the Ozark Mountains and local rail heritage. Popular offerings include Holiday Express runs from Springdale, Monett, and Van Buren featuring vintage railcars decorated for the season, hot cocoa, classic Christmas stories, and visits from Santa. Seasonal specials include Mardi Gras and Halloween-themed rides, Christmas in July, and family-focused events like Ice Cream Socials that support the J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum and the restoration of Frisco Caboose #1288.
Dining and celebration experiences include Father’s Day BBQ & Banjo and Mother’s Day High Tea, both held aboard vintage cars with live music and curated food service. The Springdale to Winslow trip is a three-hour scenic route through the Boston Mountain range, traversing valley trestles and the 1,700-foot Winslow tunnel to showcase the natural landscape of the Ozarks.
Ticketed excursions combine historic rail equipment, seasonal décor, and themed programming suitable for families, holiday groups, and rail enthusiasts. Events are presented as curated train experiences with depot activities, onboard entertainment, and community-focused fundraising elements. Schedules, ticketing details, and accessibility information are published by the railroad for each event. For visitors seeking scenic rail travel, seasonal celebrations, or museum-supporting outings, Arkansas & Missouri Railroad provides a range of documented, themed train experiences from its Springdale location. Advance reservations are recommended for holiday and themed trains; limited seating and scheduled departure times affect availability; book early online today.
Location
Springdale, AR
Departure hub for multiple excursions
Scenic Route
Boston Mountains & Ozarks
Three-hour Winslow scenic journey
Tours Offered
11 trips
Holiday, seasonal and special events
Family Events
Holiday & seasonal
Santa visits, treats, and activities
Secure seats for Holiday Express, Springdale to Winslow scenic runs, and seasonal family events — plan ahead for limited seating.
Book Tickets Early
This scenic train ride is popular, so secure your seats in advance to ensure availability.
Bring a Camera
The journey offers fantastic photo opportunities—especially through the Boston Mountains and Winslow Tunnel.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in layers as temperatures can vary between Springdale and Van Buren, especially in early mornings or evenings.
Plan to Explore Van Buren
Use the three-hour layover to walk around downtown, visit shops, or enjoy a meal at local cafés.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning landscapes and historic sights along the train route.
Layered Clothing
Adapt to varying temperatures on the train and outdoors, especially during mornings and evenings.
all
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for strolling around Van Buren during the layover.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.
summer