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Tickets On Sale Now for Historic Steam Engine Ride in Virginia
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
STAUNTON, VA – Rail enthusiasts, history buffs, and fall foliage lovers have a thrilling opportunity to ride behind a legend this fall. Tickets for the highly anticipated Shenandoah Valley Limited featuring the iconic go on sale today.
This is a chance to not just observe history, but to actually take part in an extraordinary railroading experience. This 3.5-hour train ride, which begins and ends in Goshen, spans approximately 60 miles.
“Together with our partners, we are incredibly excited to bring back the Shenandoah Valley Limited,” said Steve Powell, President of the Virginia Scenic Railway. “This collaboration allows us to offer a truly unique and memorable experience, combining the majesty of the N&W 611 with the stunning beauty of the Shenandoah Valley in autumn. It’s a cool chance to step back in time and witness the power and grace of a living legend.”
- Dates: Weekends only from September 26 – October 26, 2025. The Shenandoah Valley Limited will have two departures on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The first at 9:00 am and the second at 2:30 pm.
- Location: Excursions will depart from the custom-built Victoria Station in Goshen, Virginia. Free parking is available onsite.
- Tickets: Tickets go on sale on August 13, 2025 and are exclusively available through the Virginia Scenic Railway website.
- Seating Types: A combination of coach, table, lounge & dome seating classes are offered.
The N&W 611 was built in 1950 by the Roanoke shop for Norfolk & Western Railway. Renowned for its streamlined design, incredible power, and speed, the 611 is the sole surviving Class J locomotive and holds designations as the Commonwealth’s Official Steam Engine, a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“Bringing the 611 back to the mainline for these excursions is a monumental undertaking from a committed team of partners,” said Mendy Flynn, Executive Director of the Virginia Museum of Transportation. “The 611 is more than just a locomotive; it’s a piece of American ingenuity and a symbol of our rich railroading heritage.”
“For a short time, the 611 will be a living, operating piece of history. Opportunities to ride a steam locomotive of this caliber on the mainline are exceedingly rare, making this a must-do for any rail enthusiast,” said Dean Pyers, Executive Director of the Steam Railroading Institute.
“Hosting 611 at Victoria Station is an honor; we are helping to keep Virginia’s railroading legacy alive for future generations,” adds Will Harris, Founder, Virginia Mechanical Preservation Society.
Operation of the Shenandoah Valley Limited is made possible by a joint venture between the Virginia Scenic Railway, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Steam Railroading Institute, the Virginia Mechanical Preservation Society, and the combined efforts of hundreds of volunteers. Learn more about the experience, the schedule, and the seating options at Virginia Scenic Railway.
“The Virginia Scenic Railway has quickly become one of the Commonwealth’s most treasured travel experiences, enchanting visitors and residents alike,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “From the moment you step aboard, you’re transported to a world of timeless charm, breathtaking mountain views, and warm Virginia hospitality. This season’s excursions promise even more opportunities to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey while discovering, mile by mile, why Virginia is for Lovers.”
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