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FEEDBACK & TESTIMONIALS
"A First-Class Journey Through Time"

WHAT OUR PASSENGERS ARE SAYING

Some come for the train. Others come for the scenery, the history, or a quiet afternoon spent with family and friends. But somewhere along the way, we hope that a simple trip becomes something more.

A first ride. A shared moment. A tradition that begins without you even realizing it. These are the stories our guests bring back with them.

Over the past several seasons, over 70,000 passengers have stepped aboard the Indiana Rail Experience, many traveling from well beyond Northeast Indiana. From recognition as one of Indiana’s Best New Experiences in 2023 to a 4.6 – 5 star rating on Google Reviews, the response from our guests has been extraordinary.

Nearly everything you’ll read below reflects the work of a dedicated group of volunteers — individuals who give their time, their knowledge, and their passion to create something meaningful for others. They are the reason this experience feels different. They are the reason people come back.

And while we’re proud of what’s been built, we’re also working to constantly improve, and we solicit feedback at the end of every trip! Every season brings new ideas, improvements, and refinements to make each trip better than the last.

We look forward to having you aboard! Please click here to reach out to our Ticket Agent if you have questions, comments, or feedback. For now, don’t just take our word for it. Read what our guests have been saying below.

PASSENGER & GUEST FEEDBACK

This feedback is compiled from email submissions, Google, and social media.

”Such a unique way to see the Indiana countryside. The sound of the whistle and the smell of the steam. You just can’t beat it. A first-class operation.

— Robert S.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. They took the time to answer every question my 6-year-old had, making him a rail fan for life.

— Michael R.Visitor

”The experience felt immersive and authentic from the moment we boarded

— Ralph S.Fall Color Steam Excursion

”We took the Fall Colors excursion and it was the highlight of our year. The scenery was beautiful, but the vintage train cars and the staff’s hospitality stole the show.

— Amanda G.Fall Color Steam Excursion

”An absolute hidden gem. Seeing these massive machines up close and hearing the history from people who clearly love what they do is an experience I won’t forget.

— Sarah W.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”It was exciting from beginning to end. The train ride, the history, and the immersive experience all came together perfectly.

— Alexandra C.Fall Color Steam Excursion

”We brought our grandchildren on the Christmas train for the second year, and we all had a great time. The kids loved seeing Santa, the elves, and everything about the experience.

— Paula H.Indianal Christmas Train

”A fantastic experience for the whole family. The staff was incredibly friendly and the scenery was beautiful. Seeing the steam engine up close is something we will never forget.

— Chris B.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”The Santa Train was pure magic. It felt like stepping directly into the Polar Express. Well-organized, nostalgic, and worth every penny for the family memories.

— Jennifer D.Indiana Christmas Train

”A first-class experience in every sense. They’ve managed to recreate the Golden Age of Railroading perfectly. We can’t wait for our next trip.

— Kevin K.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”I never thought I could enjoy whiskey or a cigar on a moving train, let alone a 1940s one. To be able to do this in my home state without traveling to Florida or somewhere else is very special.

— Sam D.Wine & Whiskey Train

”The car attendant was knowledgeable and eager to share information. That made the experience feel personal and meaningful. The volunteers made the entire trip. You can tell how much pride they take in what they do.

— Wayne G.Fall Color Steam Excursion

”We did the Christmas train and it was magical. The volunteers go above and beyond to make sure the kids have a great time. A new family tradition for us.

— Jessica K.Indiana Christmas Train

”Professional, fun, and incredibly well organized. The crew and car hosts made the day memorable in First Class.

— Rachel W.Fall Color Steam Excursion

”We’ve ridden multiple times, and each experience has been just as memorable as the last. It’s something we look forward to every year.

— Jane H.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”The volunteers love what they do. They are welcoming, kind, and make sure everyone enjoys the ride. It couldn’t have been better.

— Dustin F.Autumn Limited

”You guys proved yourselves a first-rate outfit. The train was the perfect trip for fans and those casually interested in railroads alike... perfect for fans and families alike.

— Dale CIce Cream Train

”Watching the 765 roll through the countryside is a bucket-list experience. It’s a masterpiece of restoration that everyone should see at least once.

— Robert A.Tri-State Steam Excursion

”“Everything about the trip, the scenery, the service, and the atmosphere, made it something truly special.”

— Powell T.Autumn Limited

”Everything was very well organized, and speaking with the volunteers was a highlight. It made for a very pleasant day, and we will most likely ride again. It was a very well organized event and the volunteers were all very friendly and helpful. Definitely a memory the kids will keep for a long time.

— Emily M.Indiana Christmas Train

”We enjoyed the food, drinks, and cigars as well. You all have put together a memorable event.

— Aaron F.Cigar Train

Dedicated to our dear friend Joe Millspaugh, of Spencerville, Indiana, by all accounts a decent railroader but who otherwise only occasionally resembles a reasonable human being. He loves the 765. He loves trains. Don’t let him fool you. He used to visit it in Lawton Park with his dad as a kid. May he never stop obsessing over us.