Celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad by Sleeping in a Train Car
A Historical Journey
The transcontinental railroad, completed in 1869, played a pivotal role in the expansion and development of the United States. To commemorate its 150th anniversary, travelers can experience a unique way to connect with this historic event by sleeping in a restored train car.
Historic Train Car Hotels
Across the country, several hotels offer overnight accommodations in authentic train cars, including cabooses, mail cars, and luxury railcars. These accommodations provide a glimpse into the past while offering modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
Two Rivers State Recreation Area
Nestled along the Platte River in Nebraska, Two Rivers State Recreation Area features 10 restored Union Pacific cabooses parked on original rail lines. Each caboose boasts air conditioning, a dining space, a fully equipped kitchen, modern bathrooms, and a deck with a picnic table, grill, and fire pit.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
In the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Chattanooga Choo Choo offers a variety of accommodations, including restored Pullman train cars dating back to the 1930s. Immerse yourself in the history of the railroad while enjoying the amenities of a modern hotel.
Northern Rail Traincar Inn
On the shores of Lake Superior in Two Harbors, Minnesota, the Northern Rail Traincar Inn provides a unique lodging experience in 10 fully outfitted boxcars. Originally used to transport perishable goods, these cars have been transformed into cozy hotel rooms.
Izaak Walton Inn
Located adjacent to an active rail yard in Essex, Montana, the Izaak Walton Inn offers a mix of cabooses and luxury railcars converted into hotel rooms. Guests can enjoy the proximity to working railroad lines and the opportunity to witness Amtrak trains arriving directly at the property.
Red Caboose Motel and Restaurant
In the heart of Amish country in Ronks, Pennsylvania, the Red Caboose Motel features 30 restored Pennsylvania Railroad cabooses, a mail car, and a baggage car. Each caboose has been repainted in vibrant colors and boasts unique amenities like a viewing tower, a miniature riding train, and a petting zoo.
Livingston Junction Cabooses
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Livingston Junction Cabooses offers three themed caboose hotel rooms with private driveways, outdoor hot tubs, and furnished decks. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of the Eureka Springs and Northwest Arkansas Railway excursion train passing by.
Featherbed Railroad Resort
In the wine country of Nice, California, the Featherbed Railroad Resort has transformed nine cabooses from historic railroads into charming hotel rooms. Each caboose is individually themed and features a goose-down featherbed. Guests can also enjoy the private boat launch, beach, and pier on the property.
Celebrating the Transcontinental Railroad
To further commemorate the sesquicentennial of the transcontinental railroad, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is showcasing artifacts in an exhibit titled “Forgotten Workers: Chinese Migrants and the Building of the Transcontinental Railroad,” on view until spring 2020.
Experience the Past, Sleep in a Train Car
Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, spending a night in a historic train car is a fantastic way to connect with the legacy of the transcontinental railroad. From restored cabooses to luxurious railcars, there’s a train car hotel to suit every taste and budget. Embark on this historical journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
