The Best Train Trips in Washington State

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Whether you’re chasing scenic routes, seeking family fun, or a little nostalgia, these train experiences promise something for everyone — from pedal-powered forest rides to elegant long-distance journeys that crisscross the Cascades. So grab your ticket, settle in, and let the rails guide you through some of the Evergreen State’s most beautiful terrain.

Northwest Railway Museum – Snoqualmie

If you’ve ever dreamed of hearing a train whistle echo through a mountain valley, this is your spot. The Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie runs heritage trains that take passengers on a round-trip adventure from the historic depot to the top of Snoqualmie Falls and back. It’s short, sweet, and scenic — a perfect first train experience for kids.

What to Expect: A 2-hour round trip through forested foothills and alongside the Snoqualmie River. You’ll step off for views of the falls before looping back to town.

They book up fast for the Holiday season so get those tickets in advance.
Cost: Adults $28, Seniors $24, Kids (2–12) $14
Location: Snoqualmie Depot, 38625 SE King St.
Tip: Arrive early for parking, and bring a jacket — many vintage cars aren’t heated. Holiday and themed rides are especially magical.

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad – Elbe

This beloved railway lets you ride through the rolling foothills near Mount Rainier, surrounded by forest, farmland, and glimpses of the mountain itself.

What to Expect: A 1-hour-and-15-minute scenic ride aboard a vintage steam or diesel engine. It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and offers a peek into Washington’s logging history. Another one that books up fast during the holidays.
Cost: Adults around $34, Youth $15, Kids under 6 ride free.
Location: Elbe Depot, near Ashford — perfect for pairing with a Rainier National Park visit.
Tip: Bring snacks and a camera. On clear days, Rainier looms large through the trees — it’s breathtaking.

Chehalis–Centralia Railroad – Chehalis

Down in the Chehalis Valley, the Chehalis–Centralia Railroad offers heritage rides that blend small-town charm with vintage rail nostalgia. Seasonal themes like the Pumpkin Train or Santa Steam Train make it a hit with families.

What to Expect: Scenic runs through farmland and forest on classic railcars. Trips range from 45 minutes to a few hours.
Cost: Typically $25–$35 per person, depending on the event.
Location: 1101 SW Sylvenus St., Chehalis, WA
Tip: Arrive early, and check the engine schedule — sometimes the historic steam locomotive is swapped for a diesel. Either way, the views are lovely.

Vance Creek Railriders – Shelton

Not your typical train — here, you do the pedaling! At Vance Creek Railriders, you sit on a four-seat pedal-powered car that rolls along old rail tracks through the forest.

What to Expect: A 13-mile round trip through towering evergreens and across wooden trestles. The pace is slow, the scenery stunning, and laughter guaranteed.
Cost: $36 for adults, $24 for kids (11 and under).
Location: 421 W H Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA
Tip: Bring layers and water. It’s gentle exercise — kids love taking turns pedaling while parents coast and enjoy the view.

Amtrak Cascades – Along the Puget Sound

If you’ve ever dreamed of watching the sun set over Puget Sound while sipping coffee in a train car, the Amtrak Cascades line is your ticket. Running between Vancouver B.C. and Eugene, Oregon, it’s one of the most scenic train routes in the Pacific Northwest.

What to Expect: Coastal cliffs, sparkling waters, and charming small towns as you glide from Seattle to Bellingham or Portland. The train hugs the shoreline so closely you can sometimes spot seals in the surf.
Cost: Around $30–$50 one way, depending on route and time.
Tip: Book a window seat on the west side for water views, and ride between Seattle and Bellingham for the most stunning scenery.

Amtrak Empire Builder – Cross-State Adventure

For the true explorers, the Empire Builder crosses Washington from Seattle to Spokane, continuing east toward Glacier National Park and Chicago.

What to Expect: An unforgettable journey through Cascades tunnels, river gorges, and open wheat country. The observation car offers 180° views — it’s like watching the entire state unfold in cinematic slow motion.
Cost: $60–$150 for standard seating; sleeper cabins cost more.
Tip: Bring snacks, books, and curiosity. This ride isn’t about speed — it’s about soaking up the landscapes and the stillness between destinations.

Seattle Center Monorail – Downtown Seattle

A short but iconic ride, the Seattle Center Monorail zips between downtown’s Westlake Center and the Space Needle in just two minutes. We love taking this!!! Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it’s a beloved piece of Seattle history — and a thrill for little ones.

What to Expect: Quick, elevated ride with city views. It’s not a tour, but it’s perfect for families exploring downtown.
Cost: Adults $4, Youth $2, Kids under 5 free.
Tip: Pair with the Space Needle, MoPOP, or Chihuly Garden and Glass — all steps from the terminal.

Yakima Valley Trolleys – Yakima

Step back to 1907 with a ride on the country’s last operational electric interurban streetcar. The Yakima Valley Trolleys operate along original tracks through historic downtown and out to the Selah Valley.

What to Expect: A short, charming ride that feels like time travel. The museum’s volunteers share stories about early 20th-century travel.
Cost: Adults $10, Kids $6.
Location: 418 S 3rd Ave, Yakima, WA
Tip: Great educational outing for kids — and perfect for a hot summer day when you want something shaded and relaxing.

Spokane River Train Excursion – Spokane

This occasional excursion is operated by local heritage groups and features event-style trips along sections of track near Spokane and the Spokane River.

What to Expect: Comfortable cars, scenic river views, and themed events like dinner or holiday trains.
Cost: Typically $20–$40 per ticket.
Tip: Check community listings or the Inland Empire Railway Museum for dates — they often add new rides throughout the year.

What to Expect on Washington’s Rails

• Book early: Especially for themed or holiday trains.
• Dress in layers: Many cars are vintage with limited heating.
• Pack snacks: Not all excursions have food service.
• Family friendly: Most rides welcome kids, with shorter options available.
• Bring a camera: Whether it’s mist over the Sound or snow on the Cascades, Washington’s train views are unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Train travel slows you down in the best possible way. It invites you to notice — the moss on trestles, the fog over the river, the laughter echoing down through the cars. Washington’s trains aren’t about getting somewhere fast. They’re about the journey, the joy, and the hum that lingers long after the ride is done.

So pack a sense of wonder, grab your ticket, and get outside and play — by rail.