The Springdale to Van Buren excursion is an eight-hour, 134-mile round trip, and a little planning makes the day better. We are an independent guide; the railroad runs and sells the ride.
Before you go
Book on the railroad's calendar and choose a car. If you want Premium or Silver Feather, reserve at least 48 hours ahead. Plan to arrive well before the 8:00 a.m. departure; the railroad asks for at least 30 minutes. If you are staying overnight, a Springdale hotel saves a morning drive.
On the way down
The train follows a freight line through river valleys into the Boston Mountains, crossing high trestles and passing through the 1,700-foot Winslow tunnel. Conductors share local history. Snack trays are served in Premium and Silver Feather.
The layover
You have three hours in Van Buren. The Old Frisco Depot, at 813 Main Street, houses the visitors center, and Main Street's historic district is right there. A sensible plan: coffee or an early lunch, a walk along the six blocks, the riverfront at the foot of Main, and, on Wednesdays, Fridays or Saturdays when it is open, the free Drennen-Scott house a short walk away. Eat in the first hour, since a whole trainload arrives together.
The return
The train returns to Springdale between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Dome seating is one-way only on this route, so decide which direction you want it.
Who it suits
Seniors, families with school-age children, and anyone who likes trains. It is long for toddlers; consider the shorter Winslow ride instead.