
Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad
Ride a historic train along the stunning Oregon Coast, offering breathtaking views and a nostalgic journey through scenic landscapes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic train along the stunning Oregon Coast, offering breathtaking views and a nostalgic journey through scenic landscapes.
"This train ride was fantastic! I really missed the gentle relaxing feeling of riding a train, it was so soothing."

🎯 Book enclosed cars early
Enclosed seating fills up fast, especially for popular routes. Book online in advance! :ticket:
☀️ Open car for best views
Highly recommend the open-top car for 360° views and wildlife spotting. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Candy Cane Express Holiday Train
Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach
Experience festive holiday cheer with lights, treats, and Santa on this magical Christmas train ride.

Scenic Coastal Views
Various routes
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, wooded coastline, and local wildlife from a historic locomotive.

Open-Top Car Experience
All routes
Get unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views and a closer connection to nature and wildlife.

Moonlight Train Excursions
Garibaldi
Ride a steam-powered train along the coast and bays for stunning sunset and twilight views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Choose Your Adventure: Open vs. Enclosed Cars
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book enclosed cars early
Enclosed seating fills up fast, especially for popular routes. Book online in advance! :ticket:
☀️ Open car for best views
Highly recommend the open-top car for 360° views and wildlife spotting. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow ample time in Garibaldi
Don't rush your stop in Garibaldi; give yourself at least an hour to explore. :stopwatch:
🐦 Wildlife spotting is common
Keep an eye out for seagulls, eagles, and even whales along the coast. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book enclosed cars early
Enclosed seating fills up fast, especially for popular routes. Book online in advance! :ticket:
☀️ Open car for best views
Highly recommend the open-top car for 360° views and wildlife spotting. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow ample time in Garibaldi
Don't rush your stop in Garibaldi; give yourself at least an hour to explore. :stopwatch:
🐦 Wildlife spotting is common
Keep an eye out for seagulls, eagles, and even whales along the coast. :bird:
🎶 Relaxing train sounds
Enjoy the soothing clack of the rails and the peaceful pace of the journey. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad for its stunning coastal scenery, friendly staff, and the unique experience of riding a historic train. Many highlight the joy of spotting wildlife and the relaxing, nostalgic atmosphere. Some suggest booking enclosed cars in advance and allowing sufficient time for layovers.
"A group of us stayed in a Rockaway Beach vacation home over the weekend and were looking for something fun to do together. We checked online and found the Fall Splendor Excursion train ride. It cost $32 per adult. We boarded in Rockaway Beach, stopped in Wheeler for 45 minutes, then rode it back to Rockaway Beach. The full ride was 2 hours 15 minutes long. We found out online that they were running their steam locomotive the weekend we were there and that was super cool.
The scenery was nice. We rode along the coastline, seeing beaches, towns and forests. Since it was a nice day, we rode in the open-air train car. We saw many birds including seagulls, great blue herons, egrets, cormorants, bald eagles and ducks.
The staff was super friendly, helpful and accommodating. They narrate part of the trip with local history and alerting riders when wildlife is present for viewing.
We bought our tickets once we boarded the train. Many riders bought them online beforehand. If you want an enclosed train car, I would recommend buying them online as those cars fill up fast.
We had a great time and are looking forward to riding to Garibaldi next time!"
Lori H
"This train ride was fantastic! I really missed the gentle relaxing feeling of riding a train, it was so soothing. I reserved the indoor seats because our tickets were for November and I didn’t want to be stuck in the rain but it was a beautiful day and half way through the ride we went outside to the open car close to the engine and with the sunshine, cool air and scenery it was beautiful. The bay front was gorgeous with seals, whales, bald eagles and more. This was a wonderful day!"
Runningwater Rollin
"Such a fun experience! My first true time on a train and it was gorgeous!! We took the 2 hr ride to Wheeler and back and loved every second! We enjoyed sitting in the open car and being surrounded by the gorgeous views!! We didn’t book online and went to the first departure on a Saturday morning and were able to buy tickets while boarding the train!"
Mj Borrego
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad operates from multiple stations, primarily Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach. Garibaldi is accessible via US-101, and Rockaway Beach is also along the coast. Parking is available at both stations.
Yes, both the Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach stations typically offer parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot.
Public transportation options to the specific stations might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange private transport to reach the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. Check local transit schedules for potential bus routes.
Both Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach offer scenic routes. Garibaldi often serves as a hub for longer excursions, while Rockaway Beach provides convenient access for shorter trips. Consider your desired route and layover time when choosing.
From Portland, take US-26 West towards the coast, then head north on US-101. Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach are well-marked along this highway. Use GPS for precise directions to your chosen station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the excursion, duration, and seating class. Expect prices around $32 per adult for a 2-hour excursion, with special event trains like the Candy Cane Express potentially having different pricing.
Yes, you can often buy tickets when boarding the train, especially for less crowded departures. However, for popular enclosed cars or special events, booking online in advance is strongly recommended.
Tickets can be purchased online through the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad's official website, or in person at the station on the day of your ride. Booking online is advised for guaranteed seating.
While specific coupons aren't always advertised, keep an eye on their website or local tourism sites for potential seasonal promotions or package deals. Group rates might also be available.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions when booking your tickets online or contact the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad directly for information on refunds or rescheduling.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
For unparalleled views, the open-top car is highly recommended. If you prefer comfort or are traveling in cooler weather, enclosed cars offer a pleasant experience, but book these early.
Excursion lengths vary. Popular rides like the trip to Wheeler and back are around 2 hours, while others can be longer, such as the Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach round trip.
You'll see stunning coastal landscapes, beaches, forests, bays, and potentially abundant wildlife like seabirds, eagles, and seals.
Accessibility can vary by car. It's best to contact the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for their trains and stations to ensure a comfortable experience.
Layovers, such as in Wheeler or Garibaldi, offer opportunities to explore local shops, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy the town. Ensure you know the return departure time to avoid missing the train.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography. The open-top cars provide unobstructed views, ideal for capturing the scenery and wildlife.
Absolutely! The open-air cars are perfect for photography, allowing you to capture panoramic shots without window glare or obstructions.
You might spot seagulls, great blue herons, egrets, cormorants, bald eagles, ducks, and even seals or whales from the train.
The routes offer diverse photographic subjects, from rugged coastline and sandy beaches to lush forests and tranquil bays. Keep your camera ready for spontaneous wildlife sightings.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and distant wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive coastal views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Allow ample time for layovers in towns like Garibaldi or Wheeler, giving children a chance to stretch their legs and explore. The narration about local history and wildlife can also keep younger passengers entertained and educated. Booking tickets in advance, especially for enclosed cars, is recommended to ensure comfortable seating for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared to capture wildlife sightings, from seabirds and eagles to seals. The routes offer diverse compositions, from sweeping ocean vistas to intimate forest scenes. Consider a versatile zoom lens to capture both wide landscapes and distant subjects. Special excursions like the Moonlight Trains offer unique opportunities for twilight and sunset photography.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a ride that includes a layover in a charming coastal town like Rockaway Beach or Wheeler, allowing for a leisurely stroll and a meal together. The gentle rhythm of the train and the stunning natural beauty provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing and memorable getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Candy Cane Express
Booking tickets for the Candy Cane Express well in advance is crucial, as it's one of the most sought-after events. The festive atmosphere, combined with the unique experience of a holiday train ride along the coast, makes it a must-do for many visitors. The cheerful decorations and the joy of the season create an unforgettable experience for all ages.
This special train ride typically runs between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach, offering a delightful way to experience the Oregon coast during winter. The combination of holiday spirit and scenic beauty makes the Candy Cane Express a highlight of the year for the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad.
Choosing Your Perfect Seat: Open vs. Enclosed Cars
On the other hand, enclosed cars provide comfort and protection from the elements, making them a practical choice for those traveling during cooler months or if there's a chance of rain. While you won't have the same open-air immersion, the large windows still offer excellent views of the picturesque landscapes. It's important to note that enclosed cars tend to fill up faster, especially for popular routes and during peak seasons, so booking these in advance is highly recommended.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and the weather conditions. For a truly memorable and scenic adventure, especially on a pleasant day, the open-top car is often the preferred option for its breathtaking vistas and connection to the environment.
Wildlife and Scenery Along the Route
This scenic route is also a haven for local wildlife, making it a fantastic opportunity for nature observation. Keep your eyes peeled for various seabirds, including seagulls and cormorants, as well as majestic bald eagles soaring overhead. Along the waterways and bays, you might spot great blue herons, egrets, and even seals basking in the sun. The narration provided by the train staff often highlights these sightings, enhancing the educational and enjoyable aspect of the journey.
Whether you're in an open-top car for a closer encounter or an enclosed car enjoying the views through the windows, the combination of stunning scenery and abundant wildlife makes every trip on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad a memorable experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit