Texas State Railroad, Palestine

About Texas State Railroad

Texas State Railroad operates vintage steam and diesel locomotives on a 50-mile roundtrip journey through the Piney Woods of East Texas between Palestine and Rusk. Visitors board refurbished passenger cars at the Palestine Depot for a four-hour excursion featuring comfortable seating, food and beverage service, and historic narration that transports passengers through 135 years of regional history. The Piney Woods Express Diesel excursion uses restored FP9 passenger units, while specialty trains include THE POLAR EXPRESS, where families in pajamas experience the classic story brought to life with hot chocolate and cookies served aboard as chefs recite the tale, culminating in a visit from Santa at the North Pole. Seasonal events feature themed excursions such as the Oktoberfest Beer Train and Fall Harvest Lunch Train. Passengers disembark at the Rusk Depot for a layover to explore historic grounds, visit the gift shop, or enjoy lunch before returning to Palestine. The depot offers historic surroundings, dining options, and shopping. Texas State Railroad is located in Palestine, Texas.