Is there any sweeter sound for a traveler than a train whistle in the distance? As it gets closer and closer, we can feel the excitement grow. Our adventure is just moments away. While we might not always have time to hop aboard a train for a multiday adventure, we can still satisfy our wanderlust with a scenic ride in Missouri. Here are the best fall train rides in Missouri.

1. Branson Scenic Railway

Settle in for a relaxing journey through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains aboard the Branson Scenic Railway. The train leaves the station throughout October and November, so you'll have plenty of time to do a little leaf peeping. Saturdays in October feature a dinner train that leaves the station at 5 p.m. and includes a three-course meal, served by candlelight. (Dinner trains run seasonally from April through October.) Check out the train schedule on the official website of Branson Scenic Railway.

2. Amtrak Missouri River Runner

The Missouri River Runner travels from St. Louis to Kansas City, with multiple stops along the way, each day. Create your own itinerary by hopping off at one of the towns, such as Jefferson City, along the way, or just sit back and enjoy the colorful landscape as the train chugs from one side of Missouri to the other. The Missouri River Runner features both cafe service and wifi. Learn more about the Missouri River Runner on the official website of Amtrak.

3. Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad Co.

Enjoy a scenic train ride aboard the Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad, which runs seasonally. However, during October, it hosts a Harvest Train. The fall train departs at select times on Saturday and Sunday on the second, third, and fourth weekends of the month. Find more information on the official website of Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad.

4. Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train

Plan a visit to Silver Dollar City's annual Harvest Festival for a day of fall fun, including a ride aboard the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train. (The train runs through Oct. 29, 2023.) Snap photos of the fall foliage as the train meanders through the Ozarks on a 20-minute autumn journey. Learn more on the official website of Silver Dollar City.

Have you been on any of these fall train rides in Missouri? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Up for some more leaf-peeping fun? Check out some of the best places to view the fall foliage in Missouri.

After a scenic train ride, how about hitting one of the many hiking trails in Missouri? A hike is an idyllic way to admire the fall colors. Find the best hiking trails in Missouri on AllTrails.