Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, this train ride is no longer in business.
There’s a reason so many kids (and adults) love trains. There’s something magical about the chug of the powerful engine, the unmistakable whistle and the experience of watching the scenery roll by. We love train rides because they’re fast enough to be exciting but slow enough that you can really take everything in.
Did you know that Florida is home to a very special train, and you can still take an unforgettable ride? She’s called the Orange Blossom Cannonball, and she’s a movie star.
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
Since starring alongside Robert Redford, Natalie Wood, and Charles Bronson in the 1964 film “This Property is Condemned,” this authentic 1907 wood-fired steam engine has been in more than 20 films and TV shows, alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
The train travels between Tavares and Mount Dora, which is one of our favorite small towns, with lots of restaurants and antique shops. Make sure to either depart from Mount Dora, so you can spend the rest of your day there, or schedule a long enough break to enjoy this charming town before your return trip.
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
There’s also a special excursion called Trains of the Wild West, which is a 40-minute roundtrip Wild West show that departs from Tavares. There’s even an excursion departing from Mount Dora that includes a train ride and a seaplane flight!
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
The Orange Blossom Cannonball made a memorable appearance alongside George Clooney in the 2000 film “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”:
Facebook/Orange Blossom Cannonball (TE&G)
Here’s a video of what you can expect if you take a ride on the Orange Blossom Cannonball:
Please note that the steam engine runs only on Saturdays, and on most other days the train is pulled by an old diesel engine. For more information and to view the train’s schedule, check out orangeblossomcannonball.com.
Have you ever ridden the Orange Blossom Cannonball? Do you know of any other awesome train rides in Florida?
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