The Virginia Scenic Railway invites you to step back into the golden age of railroading with a truly unforgettable, limited-time series of excursions through the heart of Virginia.

Headlining this landmark event is the return of the legendary Norfolk & Western 611. Built in 1950, the 611 locomotive is the sole survivor of the “J-Class” fleet — widely considered the pinnacle of steam technology. With its iconic bullet-shaped nose and elegant Tuscan Red stripe, the 611 was designed to be both a workhorse and a beauty, capable of pulling passenger trains over the Blue Ridge Mountains at sustained high speeds. As a super-power locomotive, she is not just a machine, she is a living, breathing icon of American engineering.

Virginia’s 2026 Summer of Steam kicks off in June with a two-week residency in historic Staunton, before a final two-week run from the charming town of Louisa. The experience from each location is entirely unique.

These special excursions will operate on Virginia’s historic mainline tracks. Each journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering an up-close encounter with the sights, sounds, and sensations of steam railroading at its absolute peak. Feel the rhythmic cadence of the pistons, listen to the distinctive call of 611’s whistle, and witness billowing plumes of steam against Virginia’s summer skies. Truly, there is nothing like it.