Summer transforms the Shenandoah Valley into a living landscape and there is no easier way to enjoy it than from a front row seat on a train ride, with friends, enjoying a meal together as you watch the scenery roll by.
The Virginia Scenic Railway offers one of the most immersive ways to experience the season with excursions departing directly from Staunton and winding through landscapes that feel almost untouched by time. From the moment the vintage railcars begin to move, the pace slows, inviting passengers to settle into the rhythm of the rails and the unfolding scenery beyond the windows.
5 Perks of VSR Excursions:
1. Authentic railcars date to the 1940s
2. There are no bad seats
3. It’s a slow ride on purpose; enjoy the view
4. Every ride is narrated
5. Small capacity = intimate experience
Each excursion is a three-hour round trip, offering two distinct routes. In the Shenandoah Valley, look for the eastbound Blue Ridge Flyer and the westbound Alleghany Special. Both journeys showcase different aspects of the region’s geography, from pastoral farmland to dense forest. Trains operate Thursday through Sunday, with departures typically scheduled at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., giving travelers the flexibility to choose between a morning ride filled with crisp spring light or an afternoon journey that teases golden-hour views. Reservations are required, and seats tend to fill quickly during peak spring weekends.
For just four weeks, the Norfolk and Western Class J No. 611, one of the most celebrated steam locomotives ever built, returns to active service for the “Summer of Steam” aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. Few sights in American transportation are as dramatic — or as unforgettable. Hear the whistle. Feel the rumble of the locomotive. Watch clouds of steam billow skyward as the beautifully restored 611 powers down historic mainline tracks once traveled during the golden age of railroading. Don’t miss your chance to climb aboard, relive the glory of steam railroading, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Excursions begin June 12th and end July 5th. Book your tickets now before these historic excursions sell out.
What sets the Virginia Scenic Railway apart is its emphasis on a full-service onboard experience. A variety of ticket prices and seating class options are available to choose from, including a complete meal with dessert and beverage, creating a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that complements the scenery outside. In addition to regular excursions, there are periodic themed experiences such as “Murder on the Menu” and the “Sip & Savor Express,” which add interactive or culinary-focused elements to the journey. Specialty rides vary by season.
Whether you’re drawn by the dining experience, the leisurely pace, or the nostalgia of rail travel, the Virginia Scenic Railway offers a distinctive way to see the region – one that lingers long after the train returns to the station.
Header Image Courtesy of Virginia Scenic Railway
