History comes alive in the hands of a local painter

Palestine to Rusk

on the Texas State Railroad

One day excursion

See the glorious East Texas woods come alive as your group rides on one of Texas’ treasures, the TEXAS STATE RAILROAD from Palestine to Rusk.

This railroad excursion is on the 1896 steam train of the Texas State Railroad, which winds through some of the thickest woods and prettiest scenery of East Texas. The Texas State Railroad is one of the nation’s largest steam train operations, and one of very few that operates two steam trains on the same route. The eastbound and westbound trains meet twice daily at the mid-point of the run. This gives passengers the rare chance to see two historic steam trains switch and pass. The depots in both Rusk and Palestine offer historical displays, nostalgic keepsakes and railroad souvenirs.

Tour Highlights

The towns of Palestine and Rusk are chock full of pleasant neighborhoods of Victorian homes with their wide porches, turrets, towers and gingerbread architecture. You will enjoy seeing these restful, historic and wooded East Texas places. We will throw in seeing a few of the ever present Texas surprises along the way, too!


The area includes many home cookin' cafés

Tour Includes

Tour price includes:

  • Private tours of the historical and architectural highlights of Palestine and Rusk.
  • Tickets for the 25-mile Palestine-to-Rusk run on the Texas State Railroad.
  • Visit to the famous Eilenberger Bakery, home of delectable pastries since 1898.
  • Lunch at the Ranch House Restaurant in Palestine.