The Train Depot in Mineola, Texas

The Mineola Amtrak train station was originally built in 1906. At that time it was used by the Missouri Pacific Railroad. For many years the train depot was not in service, and was basically a run down old building. A building that held a lot of memories and stories, no doubt. Trains passed through Mineola without a second glance. It was just recently, in the 1990's, when some very determined Mineola community leaders convinced Amtrak to make Mineola one of their stops. One of the promises made by the community leaders to Amtrak was to renovate the train depot to recapture the look and feel it had back in 1906. Mineola came through with their promise. The train depot was completely renovated and restored and resembles the depot of the early 1900's. Source: East Texas Community Newspaper

Mineola is a tourist town with many great restaurants and antique shops Mineola is also home to the oldest select theatre in Texas as well as an 18 hole golf course. Amtrak definitely made a wise decision to include Mineola in their list of destinations and departures.

Amtrak arrives each morning in Mineola from the East and again in the evening from the West. Several locals take the train for a weekend getaway to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The same goes for residents of the metroplex. A trip to Mineola on the train offers up many fun things to do for the whole family. A nice getaway that is only 2 hours away. Many folks use the train to catch a ride to Canton, Texas to attend the First Monday Trade Days.

Riding the Amtrak train is very affordable. Considering the gas prices and the upkeep of your vehicle riding the train is a very frugal option to consider. You can check out the Amtrak website to find out the schedule of the trains and the prices of the different destinations.

The train depot does not staff employees, but it does offer a waiting area for all passengers who are arriving and departing. In addition to the renovating efforts there has also been extensive on site improvements such as beautiful landscaping, which I have personally seen, a brand new parking lot, and a bicycle rack. Also nearby are horseshoe throwing pits, a basketball goal, and a beautiful gazebo. Inside the renovated depot is also a railroad artifacts museum.

Planning a a fun weekend getaway, a vacation or even just a day trip has never been more affordable and fun. Make Mineola, Texas your next stop on the Amtrak!

Sources:
ETCN
Texaseagle.com