The Definitive Guide to the Branson Scenic Railway 

Your journey begins at the historic Branson Depot in Downtown Branson. Built in 1905, this turn-of-the-century gem functions as Branson Scenic Railway’s headquarters, housing a ticket counter and a gift shop where you can find train memorabilia and souvenirs. 

As part of the one-hour and 45-minute excursion, train staff narrate the experience to point out wildlife, scenery, and historic landmarks along the way. Hear fun facts about famed ghost towns and gorgeous outlooks. Onboard musicians roam the train to entertain passengers with renditions of famous railroad songs and music from the local Ozark Mountains. 

Scenic highlights on the trip include deep railroad tunnels dug by pioneers at the turn of the century, tall trestles, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys from the train’s exclusive dome cars. 

While spring and summer bring blooming blossoms, autumn excursions (mid-September to November) are some of the best for foliage lovers. Shades of gold and red blanket the hills and boast outstanding photo opportunities. 

History of the Branson Scenic Railway 

The tracks that the Branson Scenic Railway travels on date back to 1901 when the White River Railway was chartered to connect portions of the late Jay Gould’s sprawling railroad empire. Laying tracks for the railroad was possibly the most difficult construction task ever undertaken in the region. In 1993, the Branson Scenic Railway was formed through a lease agreement with the Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad. American Heritage Railways acquired the Branson Scenic Railway in September 2024 and now operates this historic attraction alongside sister railroads in Durango, CO and Bryson City, NC. 

Two Distinct Routes 

Traveling on a working commercial railroad line, the train’s direction of travel depends on freight traffic and/or track work and is determined by the Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad just prior to departure. At that time, the train will go either North or South. 

The Northern Route goes as far as Galena, Missouri in the James River Valley; and the Southern Route extends into Arkansas to the Barren Fork Trestle. Each route takes passengers about 20 miles from Branson before reversing direction and returning on the same tracks. All excursions depart from and return to the Branson Depot. 

Special Excursions 

Dinner Train 

April through October, climb aboard the train for a first-class dining experience while enjoying a ride through the rolling hills of the Ozarks. When you arrive, the mood is set by tables adorned with tablecloths, full cutlery, glassware, and dimmed light ambiance. Enjoy a full three-course meal from the menu along with narration about the railroad, local history, and scenic views along the route. Live music will be provided by onboard entertainers who travel through the cars throughout the journey. Tickets range from $91 to $121 for adults depending on the class of service selected. 

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride 

Departing from Downtown Branson, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and a treat by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station. Tickets range from $34 to $91 per person depending on the date and class of service selected. 

Ticket Prices  

Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-800-287-2462. Pricing varies depending on the class of service selected. Regular excursion tickets start at $36 plus tax for adults (ages 13 and up) and $23 plus tax for children (ages 2 to 12). Dinner Trains and THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride pricing varies. Visit bransontrain.com for full pricing information. 

Directions 

All trips depart from the Branson Depot, located at 206 E. Main St. in Historic Downtown Branson. For those taking Highway 65, exit at MO-76/Main St. (76 Country Blvd.) and continue east for approximately half a mile. 

Helpful Tips 

Here are a few helpful tips to help you plan your adventure: 

Seating is assigned and guests who book online will select their seats as they would on an airline. Guests booking by phone or in-person can communicate with an agent to receive their preferred seating location. Passengers are welcome to walk through the train to access restrooms and the concession car. 

For passengers who require mobility accommodations, there is a wheelchair designated coach on every train. Doorways are only wide enough to fit a 24” wheelchair, so if your wheelchair is wider than this you will need to be able to transfer to one of the provided wheelchairs or walk onto the train while your wheelchair is broken down to fit through the doorways. If you use a wheelchair or mobility device, please contact the ticket office directly for assistance with your reservation at 1-800-287-2462. 

Once the train returns to the depot, take time to explore Historic Downtown Branson's novelty shops, tasty restaurants, fun sights, entertaining shows and thrilling attractions.