Photo of Branson Scenic Railway in New York1 / 3
Trains & Railways

Branson Scenic Railway

πŸ“ Branson, NY

β˜…3.8(4,035 Google reviews)πŸ‘ΆAll ages

A vintage train excursion through the Ozark Mountains featuring tunnels, trestles, and wilderness views. The railway offers regular scenic rides, dinner trains, and seasonal Polar Express experiences.

βœ“ Beautiful Ozark viewsβœ“ Wheelchair accessibleβœ“ Live entertainment
β€œ
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Jessie

The Branson Scenic Railway is one of the best things to do in Branson, Missouri if you want a relaxing, authentic sightseeing experience. We took the scenic train ride through the Branson area and into Arkansas, and the views of the Ozarks were absolutely beautiful the entire trip. We booked first class tickets, which included a charcuterie board, drinks, souvenir travel cups, and a reusable bag. The upgrade was completely worth it for the comfort and service. They also had live music on board, which made it feel like the golden age of rail travel. There was a knowledgeable tour guide sharing local history, the staff took our photos, and everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful. The restrooms were clean, and everything felt well-run and professional. Tickets were about $100 per person for first class, and for the scenery, entertainment, service, and overall experience, it was a great value. If you’re searching for Branson attractions, scenic train rides in Missouri, or unique things to do in the Ozarks, this is a must. Highly recommend the Branson Scenic Railway for a beautiful, authentic, and memorable experience.

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for families seeking a relaxing scenic experience through the Ozarks with live entertainment and knowledgeable guides. Particularly good for families with accessibility needs as they accommodate medical strollers well. However, families with odd numbers should expect seating complications and budget around $100+ per person for the full experience.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘First class tickets ($100/person) include food, drinks and better seating arrangements
⏰Families with odd numbers may need to purchase extra seats or accept separated seating
🎟️Medical strollers and wheelchairs are accommodated with advance notice
πŸš—Upper deck seats may be relocated due to weather/maintenance issues

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
3.8
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

4,035 Google reviews

Scenic mountain views100%
Professional friendly staff80%
High ticket costs80%
Live entertainment onboard80%
Seating and booking issues60%
J

Jessie

2 months ago

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

β€œThe Branson Scenic Railway is one of the best things to do in Branson, Missouri if you want a relaxing, authentic sightseeing experience. We took the scenic train ride through the Branson area and into Arkansas, and the views of the Ozarks were absolutely beautiful the entire trip. We booked first class tickets, which included a charcuterie board, drinks, souvenir travel cups, and a reusable bag. The upgrade was completely worth it for the comfort and service. They also had live music on board, which made it feel like the golden age of rail travel. There was a knowledgeable tour guide sharing local history, the staff took our photos, and everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful. The restrooms were clean, and everything felt well-run and professional. Tickets were about $100 per person for first class, and for the scenery, entertainment, service, and overall experience, it was a great value. If you’re searching for Branson attractions, scenic train rides in Missouri, or unique things to do in the Ozarks, this is a must. Highly recommend the Branson Scenic Railway for a beautiful, authentic, and memorable experience.”

B

Bill Doering

4 months ago

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

β€œWe had a free day so decided to take the Branson Railway Train trip, it was interesting and the trip was pleasant. We went through two tunnels and could feel the train climbing to the highest position. There was a lady that came and sang a song in our railcar too. We just went on the regular train trip not the Polar Express. It was busy, but would like to do the scenic railcar sometime for the views.”

A

Ashley Sullivan

a month ago

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

β€œWe really enjoyed our experience at Branson scenic railway! It was medical stroller friendly, allowing us to take up 2 tables and park our handicap daughter in her medical stroller. They were so accommodating, friendly, and generous! We loved being able to explore the train car to car and see the different types of cars.”

T

Teresa Rene

3 months ago

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

β€œWe took our youngest 3 grandchildren for the Polar Express train ride. I must say that this was a fun adventure for the children; however, booking it wasn’t the best experience. They offer multiple train cars and options to choose from but, if your group/family has an odd number of people it becomes complicated. They only offer seats purchased in even numbers if you choose to ride in any of the cars besides the lowest class car. The lowest class car doesn’t offer the same treatment or treats and no tables. Meaning, that I was forced to purchase an extra seat in order for 5 of us to ride in a car other than the absolute lowest class car and we didn’t get to sit together because the tables are for 2 or 4 people. Not all families have an even number of people! Do better Branson Scenic Railway!!The pre-show happens outside the train depot but it was crowded and the children couldn’t see or hear what was even going on. Lastly, during the train ride at night, you can’t even see anything outside the train windows for at least half of the ride! Final cost over $300”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Branson Scenic Railway offers vintage train excursions through the Ozark Mountains on routes inaccessible by car. The journey features tunnels, spectacular trestles, rolling hills, and wilderness views from passenger coaches and dome cars. Options include regular scenic rides, dinner trains with three-course meals, and seasonal Polar Express experiences.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday08:30 – 16:00
Tuesday08:30 – 16:00
Wednesday08:30 – 16:00
Thursday08:30 – 16:00
Friday08:30 – 16:00
Saturday08:30 – 16:00
Sunday08:30 – 16:00