Each tour takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes to complete. The route takes passengers over trestle bridges and through tunnels, passing through abandoned towns along the way. Since the train operates on a commercial line, the direction of travel depends on the freight train schedules. The northern route extends to Galena, Missouri, while the southern route reaches into Arkansas. Passengers are encouraged to explore every car on the train, since it operates without assigned seating. The refurbished cars offer passengers a glimpse of the service enjoyed by passengers in decades past. A concession stand sells refreshments during the tour.
From April through December, the line offers a weekly dinner train tour. Guests enjoy their choice of a fish, beef or chicken entrée as well as an appetizer, salad and dessert. A vegetable and beverage are also included. The candlelight dinner allows passengers to experience the railroad-dining ambiance of yesteryear. Reservations for the dining train are required.
The Polar Express tour operates during November and December. Young passengers receive a gift and the opportunity to greet Santa. Hot chocolate and caroling add to the holiday atmosphere.
Schedules are subject to change without notice. As of 2010, the Polar Express schedule is Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 11 through Dec. 19, except for Thanksgiving Day. On Thursdays and Sundays, the train departs at 4:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., while a third departure at 8:15 p.m. is added on Fridays and Saturdays. The Dinner Train departs each Saturday at 5 p.m.
The schedule for the regular tours varies by month. During the peak season, tours are offered Monday through Friday at 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The same schedule applies to Saturdays except the 4:30 p.m. tour is replaced by a 5 p.m. departure to accommodate the dinner train. During the slowest tourist seasons, the train operates at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., while there is also a 9 a.m. train during intermediate periods.
As of 2010, the cost of the regular tour is $24.50 for adults ages 13 or older and $14 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 who do not need a seat ride for free.
Dinner Train tickets cost $54.25 for all ages. The railway recommends that Dinner Train passengers be at least 13 years of age.
Tickets for the Polar Express are $34 for adults ($49 for first class) and $24 for children 2 to 12 ($39 for first class). First-class passengers receive seating in the dining car, a keepsake mug and cookies.
Group discounts can be arranged in advance by calling the railway. Members of AAA receive a 10 percent discount on the purchase of adult tickets for the regular tour when they present their AAA membership card.
Tax will be added to all ticket prices.
Branson Scenic Railway
206 E. Main St.
Branson, MO 65616
417-336-3909 or 800-287-2462
bransontrain.com
