Trip at a Glance

Source checked 2026-08-12
  • TypeHeritage railroad & tourist attraction
  • LocationArcade, NY
  • UpcomingSat, Sep 26
  • Typical rideAbout 2 hours 20 minutes for the regular steam experience, including a Curriers stop; some special events run three hours or longer

About Arcade & Attica Railroad

Arcade & Attica Railroad is an operating Western New York short line that carries both freight and passengers. Its regular visitor experience is a 2-hour-20-minute round trip from the historic Arcade Station to Curriers and back, including a rural layover for photos and crew work. The operator advertises regular steam excursions behind 1920-built 2-8-0 No. 18 and reserves the right to substitute motive power; special trains may use steam or diesel. Current 2026 FareHarbor inventory has been reconciled through December 20, including regular steam dates, adult tasting trains, family specials, fall foliage, Halloween and Santa departures. This free profile was source-checked August 12, 2026 and has not been claimed or confirmed by the operator.

📍 278 Main Street, Arcade, NY 14009📞 585-492-3100

Ways to Ride

Choose the visit that fits your group

Plan Your Visit

  • ArriveArrive at least 30 minutes before departure and be at the boarding area 15 minutes early. Trains leave on time and do not wait
  • ParkingFree municipal parking is across Main Street behind M&T Bank, entered from Church Street. Use the exact Arcade Station address rather than searching the railroad name
  • AccessibilityThe train is not broadly step-free. A designated historic coach can take a limited number of wheelchairs using a lift; powered wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Book by phone at 585-492-3100
  • RestroomsRestrooms and changing stations are available at Arcade and Curriers. There are no restrooms aboard the historic coaches
  • DepartureMost public trains depart Arcade Station at 278 Main Street, Arcade, NY 14009. Use the meeting point on the booked product
  • Regular DurationAbout 2 hours 20 minutes for the regular steam experience, including a Curriers stop; some special events run three hours or longer
  • Regular ItineraryAbout 40 minutes from Arcade to Curriers, a roughly 30–60 minute midpoint stop that varies by product, then the return to Arcade
  • Regular Fares 2026Current regular steam fares: adults 13–61 $29; children 2–12 $22; under 2 free on an adult lap; seniors 62+ $27; military $27 with valid ID
  • Calendar StatusLive FareHarbor inventory reconciled August 12 through December 20, 2026; the first empty 2027 months were checked. Availability and sellouts can change
  • Weather And CindersTrains normally run regardless of weather. Steam can release cinders or sooty water, so protect eyes and clothing and do not wear anything that cannot tolerate a spot
  • Food And BagsOutside food, beverages and alcohol are not permitted unless the specific product says otherwise. Luggage, strollers, coolers and backpacks are not allowed aboard passenger coaches
  • Ticket ChangesThe published policy combines case-by-case handling with product-specific deadlines and a $10 processing fee; the live product terms control. Railroad-cancelled trips are refunded
  • Station AmenitiesArcade Station includes railroad exhibits, a gift shop and snack bar. Availability can vary by departure and season
  • GroupsGroups of 20 or more can receive $2 off regular tickets by calling the office; special events are excluded. Coaches and complete trains may be chartered
  • OfficeCall 585-492-3100 or email arcadeandatticarr@yahoo.com. Published office hours are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Find the Depot

Address

278 Main Street, Arcade, NY 14009

Get directions →

The Trains

The regular passenger product is built around steam locomotive No. 18, a 1920 American Locomotive Company 2-8-0 acquired from Michigan’s Boyne City Railroad in 1962. No. 18 returned to public excursion service in September 2024 after an extended rebuild, and current 2026 inventory advertises it on regular and fall trains. The railroad nevertheless reserves substitution rights. The operator’s current about page also identifies two General Electric diesel-electric locomotives used in freight and some special-event service: 44-ton center-cab No. 111, built in 1947 and delivered new to the A&A, and No. 112, built in 1945 for the U.S. Navy and acquired in 1988. Other locomotives and cars visible in photographs or around the shop should not be treated as guaranteed passenger equipment without a current product statement.

History

1880

The narrow-gauge line officially opened between Attica and Curriers.

1881

Rails on the route used today were first spiked down.

1895

The route was converted to standard gauge.

1917

365 local investors raised $79,000 to form the present Arcade and Attica Railroad Corporation.

1941

New General Electric diesel No. 110 sharply reduced costs and helped preserve the short line.

1957

Flood damage led to abandonment of the route north of North Java.

1962

No. 18 made its inaugural press run July 27; regular summer steam excursions began in August.

2024

No. 18 returned to public excursion service after its extended rebuild.

See full history

The present ride follows a line whose narrow-gauge predecessor opened between Attica and Curriers in 1880. Rails on today’s route were first spiked in 1881 and standardized in 1895. When the Buffalo & Susquehanna considered abandoning the line, 365 local farmers, merchants and businesses raised $79,000 in 1917 to create the Arcade and Attica Railroad Corporation, which the operator says still owns the railroad. General Electric diesel No. 110 arrived in 1941 and dramatically reduced operating expense. A January 1957 flood led to abandonment north of North Java. To rebuild traffic and public interest, the railroad acquired No. 18 and two coaches in 1962; a press run left July 27 and regular summer excursions began that August. Freight and passenger service continue side by side today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Arcade & Attica Railroad depart?

Most public trips depart from Arcade Station at 278 Main Street, Arcade, NY 14009. Verify the meeting point on the live ticket.

How long is the regular train ride?

The current regular experience is about 2 hours 20 minutes, including the midpoint stop at Curriers. Special events can be longer.

Is steam locomotive No. 18 guaranteed?

The regular and foliage products advertise No. 18, but the operator reserves the right to substitute motive power when operations require it.

What 2026 dates are currently available?

The official FareHarbor inventory was reconciled August 12 through December 20, including regular steam, specialty, foliage, Halloween and Santa dates. Use the live calendar for remaining capacity.

How early should I arrive?

At least 30 minutes before departure, with your party at the boarding area 15 minutes early.

Where do I park?

Use the free municipal lot across Main Street behind M&T Bank, entered from Church Street. Navigate to 278 Main Street rather than searching only the railroad name.

Are there restrooms aboard the train?

No. Restrooms and changing stations are available at Arcade and Curriers.

Can the train accommodate a wheelchair?

A designated historic coach has limited wheelchair space and a lift, but the train is not broadly step-free and powered wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Call 585-492-3100 to book.

Can I bring food, drinks, a stroller or backpack?

Outside food, beverages and alcohol are not allowed unless the product says otherwise. Strollers, backpacks, coolers and luggage are not permitted aboard the passenger coaches.

What is the refund policy?

Policies vary by product. The operator publishes case-by-case handling, advance deadlines for limited events and a processing fee, while live products state that trains run in most weather. Read the exact ticket terms before purchase.

What is at Curriers Station?

It is the rural midpoint of the excursion, with restrooms, photo time and crew operations. It is not marketed as a separate museum or independent attraction.

What is the best nearby add-on?

Choose Trillium Nature Center for the closest flexible family stop, or reserve a separate half-day for Letchworth or Griffis Sculpture Park.

Sources & Verification

Share Your Experience

✍ Write a Review
Rating *

0/50 characters

When did you visit? (Optional)