If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing in the High Country of North Carolina, Tweetsie Railroad is a must-do while you’re in town.
Take a ride on the coal-fired steam locomotive, ride the chair lift up to Miner’s Mountain to visit the petting zoo, or go to the Country Fair for more rides and arcade games.
5 Reasons to Visit Tweetsie
Here is a list of 5 reasons why you should visit Tweetsie Railroad.
#1: It’s North Carolina’s First Theme Park
Tweetsie Railroad first opened in the summer of 1957 as an excursion train ride that was pulled by No.12, the last narrow-gauge engine of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad.
In 1960, Tweetsie added another train, the Yukon Queen, No. 190, all the way from Alaska.
The popularity of the park in 1961 led to the addition of the western town and saloon, the train robbery show, and other attractions ever since.
#2: You Can Ride The Historic Steam Locomotive
Even if you choose not to enjoy the rest of the park, you definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to ride the historic steam locomotive.
Visiting during the Railroad Heritage Weekend also gives you the chance to ride in the 1870’s vintage No. 5 Coach Car.
Look out the window! Riding the train at Tweetsie Railroad is a great place to watch the leaves change color during the fall.
#3: They Have Holiday Themed Events
At Tweetsie Christmas, you can visit Santa and Mrs.Claus in their Gingerbread House, see the Christmas show in the Tweetsie Palace and ride the train to see their light display, all while listening to classic Christmas music.
If you’re here during October, check out the Halloween haunted park. Some attractions are for all ages, but they recommend ages 8+ for the Ghost Train, Haunted House, and Freaky Forest.
You won’t want to miss their awesome fireworks display on the 4th of July.
For other events, they have throughout the year click here.
#4: The Live Performances You Don’t Want to Miss
Some shows change during the holiday events, so make sure you grab a park map to see what live performances are happening.
The Tweetsie Palace features performances from:
- The Diamond Lil’s Can-Can Revue
- The Tweetsie Magic Show
Miner’s Mountain features:
- Hopper and Porter’s Musical Celebration
- Country Clogging Jamboree.
#5: It’s in Blowing Rock
Tweetsie Railroad is conveniently located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Once you’ve finished at the park you can explore downtown for some good food, shopping, or a hike.
My son Owen is Tweetsie’s biggest fan, and since we live in the High Country, we get to drive by the park often and usually purchase season tickets. It is worth every penny to see him fill to the brim with excitement every year for opening day.
Now, Owen gets to show his younger siblings the adventures and magic this theme park holds.
Everyone should experience Tweetsie Railroad at least once while in the High Country.
Whether you’re a train enthusiast, have young kids, or are in town during one of their special events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
