Specialty Tours at the N.C. Transportation Museum
Explore two remarkable private rail cars, discover their role in history, and hear the fascinating stories of the people who owned them. Guides will walk you through each car, sharing unique details and stories along the way.
These tours offer a rare chance to step inside luxury rail travel of the past, providing a closer look at craftsmanship, innovation, and the lives of the prominent figures connected to these cars. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience history in an unforgettable way.
Specialty tours are Included with museum admission.
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Please Note: Admission prices to the museum may change or be subject to premium pricing due to special events.
Doris Tours
October 24, 25
November 7, 21
Walk-up Tour Times: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
A son of North Carolina, James B. Duke was a pioneering industrialist and philanthropist best known for the American Tobacco Company, Duke Power, and generous contributions to Duke University. See how the industrialist traveled for business and pleasure during the height of his philanthropy. The Doris private rail car, named after his daughter, will be open for special tours on select dates. Alongside the tour, learn about the life and legacy of James B. Duke and the Duke Endowment by exploring a new traveling interactive pop-up exhibit the museum is hosting until December 31.
Survivor Tours
October 10, 11, 31
November 1, 14
Walk-up Tour Times: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Step Inside History Aboard The Survivor
Tour The Survivor private railcar on select dates and discover how Atlanta-based restaurant owner and private car enthusiast Dante S. Stephensen transformed this historic car into his own private living and entertainment quarters.
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Built in 1926 for $50,000, the railcar was commissioned for Jessie Woolworth Donahue, heiress to F.W. Woolworth, whose five-and-dime stores became a household name in early 20th century America.
Originally named the Japauldon, the railcar was later renamed The Survivor by Dante S. Stephensen, who purchased it in 1982. Stephensen entertained famous politicians and other high-profile guests aboard the car, which operated across the country on private rail excursions. When not traveling, it was based at a secluded, wooded area next to Amtrak’s Crescent route near downtown Atlanta. Stephensen owned and operated Dante’s Down the Hatch, a famous restaurant and jazz club in downtown Atlanta and Buckhead.
A true rail enthusiast, Stephensen worked as a fireman, brakeman, and switchman to support his graduate studies in Denver, Colorado. His life and this railcar are a tribute to a lifelong connection to the rails.
Don’t miss your chance to step back in time and experience this rare piece of railroading history.
