The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway travels 26 miles across the landscape of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The train departs from the mountain town of Blue Ridge, Ga., and the ride lasts for approximately four hours. Fares vary according to the season. The cheapest prices typically are in the spring, with 2010 rates costing $26 for adults ages 13-64. The line offers discounts for both active and retired military personnel as well. Themed holiday rides run throughout the year, including an Easter Egg-Spress and a Night Excursion through Santa's Village.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
241 Depot St.
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
877-413-8724
brscenic.com
Originating in the southern part of Georgia, the SAM Shortline Excursion Train runs for more than 30 miles from the city of Cordele to Archery, with four other scheduled stops along the route. Passengers can disembark at each stop, choosing to catch a returning train either that same day or the following day. As of April 2010, adult general admission coach fares cost $25.50, premium-Americus (featuring assigned tables) run $33.50 per person, and premium-Hawkins (equipped with private sofas or lounges) start at $125. Groups can also reserve the train for private parties and events.
SAM Shortline Excursion Train 105 East 9th Ave.
Cordele, GA 31015
877-427-2457
samshortline.com
Situated approximately 15 miles northeast of Atlanta, the 3,200-acre Stone Mountain Park offers a host of activities including hiking trails, two golf courses, outdoor pavilions, shops, and restaurants. The park also features an authentic 1940s locomotive which travels five miles through the grounds. The conductor provides a narrated tour of Stone Mountain Park and entertains kids with sing-a-longs. The open-air ride lasts approximately 25-30 minutes. As of April 2010, adult fares were $9, while children cost $7 plus tax.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain, Georgia 30087
770-498-5600
stonemountainpark.com/attractions-shows/attraction-detail.aspx?AttractionID=54
Although situated in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers an excursion to Chickamauga, Ga., a town in the northwestern part of the state. The line, known as the Chattanooga & Chickamauga Railway, originates in Chattanooga and runs for approximately six and a half hours. Guests can enjoy a nearly two-hour layover in the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park. As of April of 2010, fares cost $33 for adults and $25 for children (ages 3-12). For an added fee, guests can receive lunch onboard the train.
Chattanooga & Chickamauga Railway
4119 Cromwell Rd.
Chattanooga, TN 37421
423-894-8028
tvrail.com/index.php
