Photo courtesy of Patriot Rail
As president of scenic rail excursions for Patriot Rail, Robert Turnauckas brings more than 25 years of leadership in hospitality and transportation. Previously with Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, SeaWorld, among others, Turnauckas came to Patriot Rail in 2017. He currently oversees the Excursion Rail division, which includes three active excursions—The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railway in Meredith and Weirs Beach, New Hampshire, and the Granite State Railways in Lincoln, New Hampshire, with a new Gettysburg Railway experience in Pennsylvania in the works. Turnauckas recently spoke with Group Tour about the experiences offered by Patriot Rail.
Q. How would you describe Patriot Rail’s destinations to someone who has never visited before?
A. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a beautiful journey along the Toccoa River. Passengers ride in vintage railcars through forests and charming small towns, especially stunning during fall foliage season. It’s a relaxing, family-friendly experience.
The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railway is a lakeside rail adventure traveling along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest and most scenic lake. The ride offers incredible views of the water, mountains, and quaint resort towns, making it a perfect way to experience the Lakes Region’s beauty and charm.
Departing from the heart of the White Mountains, the Granite State Railway excursion winds along the Pemigewasset River through serene woodlands and mountain vistas. With vintage coaches and seasonal themes, it’s a New England rail experience that blends history, nature, and relaxation.
Photo courtesy of Patriot Rail
Q. What makes Patriot Rail’s destinations/attractions a great place for group tours?
A. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway excursion offers a four-hour round trip along the Toccoa River with a two-hour layover in McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee—perfect for exploring and grabbing lunch. Incredible group tour opportunities are found during the fall foliage season, and group-friendly restaurants in the layover towns offer quick-service options and can accommodate pre-arranged box lunches for motorcoach groups.
The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railway is known for its tour opportunities during the fall foliage season. Groups can enjoy pre-ordered box lunches served onboard during select excursions, including the popular Turkey Dinner Train and seasonal rides.
Boxed lunches are available for purchase on the Granite State Railway and can be enjoyed onboard during the 80-minute ride. The experience includes views of the Pemigewasset River and White Mountains, with optional seasonal lunch trains that feature local flavors. Group coordinators can arrange meals in advance for a seamless experience.
Q. How does Patriot Rail help tour operators plan their group tours?
A. Our team offers comprehensive planning support for group travel—from tailored itineraries and hotel partnerships to step-on guides and local dining coordination. We provide a dedicated group contact and personalized consultations to ensure a smooth, customized experience. Our team’s extensive hospitality and transportation background brings deep insight into group travel dynamics, and we understand how to deliver what groups need most.
Photo courtesy of Patriot Rail
Q. Are there areas, themes, or activities you would like to promote to group tours?
A. Each location is different. We offer several themed train rides throughout the year. Our fireworks trains and holiday trains are among the most popular. For Blue Ridge and Winnipesaukee, we strongly recommend our Fall Foliage trains. At the upcoming Gettysburg attraction, we’re currently promoting immersive historical experiences like the Gettysburg Reenactment, and expanded agritourism offerings in Adams County, including cider tastings and farm-to-table experiences.
Q. What’s your long-term outlook for group tours?
A. We anticipate continued growth across our portfolio, particularly in Gettysburg, where the introduction of a new group experience is being positively received. In Blue Ridge and Winnipesaukee, fall foliage remains a favorite for group travelers. Moving forward, we’ll continue developing unique packages tailored to tour operators—whether through food and beverage offerings or themed experiences—giving them new ways to showcase and sell our excursions. We strongly believe in partnerships building experiences out with our travel partners, where our train ride becomes an element to a broader excursion itinerary.
Photo courtesy of Patriot Rail
Q. Is there anything new or upcoming with Patriot Rail that group tours should know about?
A. Our Gettysburg Railway excursion launches this August from a historic 1884 depot, traveling near the iconic battlefield and through the rolling countryside of Adams County, Pennsylvania. Featuring restored 1950s-era railcars and rich storytelling, it offers a moving journey through American history with themed excursions and seasonal off-site events.
Optional box lunches will be offered for groups, and with advance planning, groups can enjoy their meals onboard during the excursion or picnic-style at the depot before or after their ride. This convenient option is ideal for day-trip itineraries, allowing guests to make the most of their visit while dining during the journey.
Q. Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about Patriot Rail?
A. Our dedicated excursion division will go above and beyond to accommodate group travel—we will offer flexible menus, themed programs, and even after-hours access to sites.
Learn More
Patriot Rail Excursions
patriotrail.com/services/scenic-rail-excursions
Lead image:
Photo courtesy of Patriot Rail
