New York Tourist Railways and Museums Band Together

People who love the sound of a train whistle, or those who find comfort in the rhythm of the rails and the unique beauty of New York State are discovering that a new railroad promotion project in New York State is a rail fan’s dream come true. Tourist Railroads and Museums of New York is a cooperative marketing venture between many of New York State’s scenic railway operations and railroad museums. Stretching from the Hudson Valley to the Niagara Frontier and from the Adirondack Mountains to the Southern Tier, they are inviting you to come, Explore New York State by railroad.

Together the partner organizations will create a cooperative marketing campaign that includes a comprehensive brochure of New York State Tourist Railroads and Museums, as well as a website ( www.nytrains.org ) that will showcase an array of excursions and museum visits for rail fans and general tourists alike. These scenic railways carry thousands of passengers a year, on vintage cars, over hundreds of miles of track.  The routes take sightseers through some of New York’s most breathtaking scenery and often feature special themes, such as the “Leaf Peeper Special,” the “Teddy Bear Trains,” the “Blues-n-Brews Train,” the “Polar Express,” or “Thomas the Tank Engine.” In addition, the railway museums and historical societies across the state are often housed in historic railway stations, several of which feature extensive model railroad layouts, maintain and promote the romance of the “iron horse” inside their walls with all kinds of railroad memorabilia.

“We believe that the rail enthusiasts of today, those who organize and run scenic railroads and museums, are a vital part of the growth of the industry,” said Deb Najarro of Finger Lakes Railway, current coordinator of the Explore NY group project.  “This cooperative venture among these organizations is designed to drive awareness of railway-related tourism opportunities across New York State, which, in turn, will have a positive effect on the economy.”

“Plus, the focus on railways,” Najarro said.  ”Continues to play an important role in freight development and passenger travel options, and, as gasoline prices continue to rise, we are seeing more cities and towns look at the railroads to provide transportation solutions.”

For more information on Tourist Railroads and Museums of NY log onto www.NYtrains.org or call 315-374-4994.