Looking for something fun to do this summer with the family? How about an excursion train ride through the rolling hills of Arkansas? As far back as I can remember, I've always liked trains.

I remember when I was growing up my Dad would take my brother and me to Union Station downtown to watch all the trains come and go. What a great memory. And my first train ride was to California with my mother. There is just something special about riding the rails and being a part of this great American tradition. As an American, riding a train connects us with our past when trains were a normal way of travel.

I liked it because you got to see a different view of America rolling over trestles, through tunnels and some beautiful countryside that sometimes you just don't see in a car. With that all being said, there is an attraction in Van Buren Ark., that allows you to take a round-trip train ride from Arkansas to Missouri and it won't cost you too much either. Here are a couple of options to choose from.

Option 1: Van Buren to Winslow

This 70-mile round trip excursion begins in Van Buren aboard the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad train with Coach Class seating your ride takes you over trestles and through the Winslow tunnel for some breath-taking views of the "Natural State." I highly recommend you take this ride in the fall when all the leaves are changing color.

Option 2: Arkansas & Missouri Fall Foliage Train to Van Buren from Springdale

This is an incredible 134-mile round trip that takes you through the Boston Mountains of Northwest Arkansas. It will take approximately eight hours to complete this scenic trip that stops in historic Van Buren for two hours of shopping and dining at several fine restaurants. Note: This trip starts from Springdale, Ark.

For more excursions and attractions visit their website or their Facebook page.

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