All Aboard! Discover History on the Nickel Plate Express

Railroads built our great nation. They brought profound economic, social, and political changes that drove the United States towards modernity. Although the golden age of railroading is long gone, trains still carry passengers and freight all over the country. If you are someone who’s fascinated by trains, check out the  Nickel Plate Express in Hamilton County, Indiana. 

The owners of the train are actually a nonprofit organization established in northern Hamilton County in 2017 to preserve the railroad history of Indiana. It also strives to increase tourism in the area – especially in Cicero, Arcadia, and Atlanta. The program includes themed excursions aboard the 1956 Santa Fe El Capitan luxury train from April to December.

The train travels 12 miles through Atlanta, Arcadia, Cicero, and Noblesville on the historic 1881-built Nickel Plate Road railroad that once ran through New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. A nickel-plated 1956 F9 diesel locomotive engine hauls Santa Fe Railway Hi-Level passenger cars. Passengers aboard the El Capitan luxury train that used to run between Chicago and Los Angeles from 1938 to 1971. Passenger cars are two-stories tall with a sitting area on the upper level.

Uncorked Express 

This excursion is perfect if you are looking to spend some quality time with your friends. Enjoy the scenic view and taste three wine samples along with a cheese platter and snacks. You can choose a 4-top booth seating or reserved seating that’s ideal for couples. The duration of the excursion is 90 minutes.

Family Rides 

Family-friendly themed excursions are the highlights of Nickel Express. Some of the popular themes are Wizard Express for Harry Potter fans, Pumpkin Express for Halloween, and Reindeer Ride to celebrate the Christmas spirit. These rides are usually an hour long and have snacks and beverages available for purchase.

Arcadia Train Depot 

Another great place to visit to relive railroad history is the Arcadia Depot. It was constructed in 1869 and was one of the busiest places in Arcadia. During the Indiana gas boom in the 1880s, both passenger and freight trains used to arrive regularly at the depot.

At present, the depot serves as a museum and a window to the glorious past of the Arcadia community. It is open to the public, free of charge, Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. from May to September. It is situated at 107 W South Street, Arcadia, Indiana.

If you are in Hamilton County, don’t forget to ride the Nickel Plate Express, and then get in touch with Ed Martin Toyota in Noblesville, Indiana, and test drive your new Toyota today!  

Image courtesy of pexels.com

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