Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

3 Best Day Trips from Atlanta

"This historic train leaves from the 1905-built depot in downtown Blue Ridge. The bright blue engine pulls a line of open-air and climate-controlled rail cars through the Chattahoochee National Forest for a two-hour “layover” in Copperhill, Tennessee. The 26-mile round trip overlooks the Toccoa River for most of the way. Guests can typically walk up to the depot counter to purchase a ticket on the spot, but themed rides (like the popular Santa Express) sell out early, so advanced tickets are a good idea. The scenery along the Toccoa River is beautiful, so anywhere you look (no matter the season), you’re likely to have a great view." - Jennifer Bradley Franklin