Traveling to Texas from another state might feel like cultural immersion, and to make the most of the new experience, try a historic trolley ride. Streetcars are electric, which make them environmentally friendly, and they’re convenient, stopping at several popular tourist attractions and venues. Trolleys are usually more affordable than other modes of transportation would be, and they run through the heart of the city. So, if you want to learn more about a city’s history, experience local culture, and admire its finest architecture, put away the ride-sharing app and hop on board.
Dallas: The M-Line Trolley provides transportation through the Uptown neighborhood of Dallas. The wood-paneled streetcars are replicas of the original Birney safety streetcars that once operated in cities across the country. The route runs from the West Village shopping and dining district to historic McKinney Avenue, with several stops at popular attractions like Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the American Airlines Center. The M-Line is free to ride but also offers a name-your-fare option, encouraging riders to pay what they can upon boarding. Pull the bell and request a stop along the route. mata.org
El Paso: The El Paso Trolley is a refurbished design that resembles the city’s original electric streetcars and mixes modern and vintage elements for a fun, retro look. The route runs through downtown El Paso and makes stops at popular attractions such as the El Paso Museum of Art, the Judson F. Williams Convention Center, and the Plaza Theatre. Rides are free on the El Paso Trolley, and there’s free Wi-Fi. sunmetro.net
Fort Worth: Molly the Trolley is a historically accurate trolley with open-air seating and brass fixtures. Molly’s route runs through downtown Fort Worth and stops at tourist favorites such as the Fort Worth Water Gardens, the Fort Worth Convention Center, and the Bass Performance Hall. Molly the Trolley is free to ride. ridetrinitymetro.org
Fredericksburg: The Fredericksburg Trolley travels through downtown Fredericksburg and to popular tourist destinations in the surrounding area, including local wineries. The red trolley cars are replicas of the original electric streetcars that once operated in the city. Tour fares range from $15 to $25, and wine-tasting tours are available for an additional fee. fbgtours.com
Galveston: With wooden bench seating and a classic bell, the Galveston Island Trolley cars honor the city’s original electric streetcars that date back to the late 19th century. The trolley provides transportation throughout the island, making stops at Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and the Historic Strand District, as well as other popular tourist attractions. The cost for a single ride is $1, and children ride free. Multiday passes and combination tickets with other attractions are also available. galveston.com
