Ride the Train – Van Buren Excursion

When the air cools and the leaves turn, there’s no better way to see Arkansas than by rail.

 

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad has reopened its beloved Van Buren-to-Winslow excursion, a trip that winds through the Boston Mountains, crosses high trestles, and passes through the famous Winslow Tunnel.

 

A Journey Through Time

 

Departing from downtown Van Buren, this nostalgic trip feels like stepping back in time.

 

Passengers ride in restored vintage cars, complete with panoramic windows that show off sweeping valleys and forested hillsides painted in autumn color.

 

Local residents say the best views come mid-October when the Ozark trees are at their peak. “It’s like riding through a postcard,” one traveler shared.

 

Local Flavor on the Rails

 

The three-hour round trip offers refreshments, photo ops, and plenty of stories from conductors who know the line’s history.

 

Families, couples, and photographers flock here each year to rediscover the River Valley’s beauty from a new perspective.

 

Economic Boost for Van Buren

 

The train brings more than tourists—it boosts downtown’s restaurants, antique shops, and local businesses. Each weekend, riders step off the platform and wander historic Main Street, turning a simple ride into a full-day experience.

 

The Takeaway

 

Whether you’re chasing fall colors, creating memories, or just want a peaceful escape, Van Buren’s historic train ride is the perfect trip this season.