Movie-Famous Train Car: Walk to Polar Express

Bryson City, NC, United States

4 guests
1 bedroom
1 bathroom

All aboard the authentic movie-famous caboose from "The Fugitive" now transformed into a tiny house! Perfect for families and train enthusiasts, this unique accommodation sleeps four in twin bunk beds and sits within walking distance to downtown Bryson City and the Polar Express. Enjoy climate-controlled comfort, a private deck, and hotel-style kitchenette. Create unforgettable memories in this piece of cinematic history while exploring all the Smokies have to offer!

Good to know

Nearby Attractions: • Downtown Bryson City shops and dining: 0.2 miles (walkable) • Great Smoky Mountain Railway/Polar Express: 0.5 miles (walkable) • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: 2.7 miles • Nantahala Outdoor Center: 13.3 miles • Harrah's Cherokee Casino: 13 miles P&WV #839 isn't just a place to stay—it's a conversation piece with its own Hollywood storyline. After starring alongside Harrison Ford in "The Fugitive," this authentic caboose found its second act as Bryson City's most distinctive accommodation. The caboose preserves its historical character through original flooring and authentic details while offering modern comforts. The sleeping arrangement features four twin bunks—two below and two accessed by ladder. What truly distinguishes this property is its unbeatable location. At just 0.2 miles from downtown, you can park once and walk to restaurants, shops, and the railway station. During winter months, being steps from the Polar Express departure point creates magical convenience for families with excited children. After exploring town or the nearby national park, return to your private deck or gather at the shared fire pit. The compact but thoughtfully equipped space includes a full bathroom with shower and a hotel-style kitchenette. Whether you're drawn by railroad nostalgia, movie connections, or simply the chance to give your family a one-of-a-kind experience, this historic caboose delivers a stay that standard accommodations simply cannot match.

Other Details to Note

• Climate Control: The caboose is fully climate-controlled with both air conditioning and heating for year-round comfort. • Upper Bunks: The two upper bunks are accessed by ladder and may not be suitable for young children, those with mobility issues, or guests uncomfortable with heights. • Kitchenette Limitations: The caboose features a hotel-style kitchenette with mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker only. There is not a stove, oven, or kitchen sink in this unit due to space limitations. • Authentic Experience: While we've added modern comforts, this is a genuine historic train car with original hardwood flooring that shows its age and character. The space has a rustic, compact charm that appeals to those who appreciate vintage authenticity over polished perfection. Ideal for travelers who value unique history and are comfortable with the beautiful imperfections of a preserved piece of railroad heritage. • Polar Express Season: The caboose books quickly during November-December when the railway runs its popular Christmas-themed train experience.

What this place offers

Common

  • Essentials Towels, bed sheets, soap, toilet paper, and pillows
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • TV
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Shampoo
  • Hot Water

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Iron
  • Extra pillows and blankets

What this place offers

Common

  • Essentials Towels, bed sheets, soap, toilet paper, and pillows
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • TV
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Shampoo
  • Hot Water

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Iron
  • Extra pillows and blankets

Family

  • Board games
  • Children's books and toys

Home safety

  • Fire extinguisher
  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Smoke detector
  • First aid kit

Kitchen and dining

  • Coffee
  • Coffee maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Location features

  • Private entrance Separate street or building entrance

Outdoors

  • Garden or backyard
  • Fire pit
  • Outdoor seating
  • Patio or balcony

Parking and facilities

  • Free parking on premises

Accessibility and Availability

Neighborhood

Located in the charming town of Bryson City, our authentic caboose stay offers a unique and memorable experience, with easy access to local attractions and outdoor adventures. The neighborhood is characterized by its friendly residents and beautiful surroundings, creating the perfect setting for your North Carolina escape. Just a short drive from the heart of town, you'll discover a variety of local attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and the famous Polar Express train ride during the winter season. In the area, you'll also find fantastic hiking trails, whitewater rafting opportunities, and an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere of the town will make you feel right at home as you explore the picturesque streets and hidden gems. Experience the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in the neighborhood surrounding our authentic caboose stay – a truly one-of-a-kind destination in beautiful Bryson City.

Guest Access

Your stay includes full access to: • Entire caboose with four twin bunk beds • Full bathroom with shower • Hotel-style kitchenette (mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker) • Private deck with outdoor seating • Shared fire pit and hammock area • Free parking on premises For larger groups, consider also booking our nearby cottage (visible in photos) to accommodate up to 8 guests total.

Find us

Bryson City, NC, United States

Parking is provided and many of Bryson's local attractions are within walking distance to the caboose. There are shops, restaurants, breweries, and the train are just minutes away.

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Approximate location. Full address will be provided on booking.

Reviews

Madaline
August 2025 · Airbnb
The caboose was perfect! The bunks were very comfortable, I slept great every night of my stay! Brenda was so proactive and communicative with everything and check in and check out was a breeze. It was hassle-free, easy, and casual, just like an air bnb should be. Definitely would book again if I was ever down in Bryson City!
Jami Lynn
August 2025 · Airbnb
We had the best time! Our 8yo son couldn’t have been any happier! Staying in a caboose was very cool for him- and us 😊 The location was perfect for walking to downtown Bryson city!
Chris
August 2025 · Airbnb
Everything was great in the caboose and as described. The location was perfect to get to town. We walked into town and to the railway for our train ride. The kids loved sleeping in the caboose.
Jessica
July 2025 · Airbnb
It’s an adorable and unique place to stay! The best part is that it’s in a great very walkable location, I didn’t need to use my car for my entire stay in Bryson City. Brenda was an excellent host, I’d gladly stay again!
Melanie
July 2025 · Airbnb
Our stay was wonderful! Everything was as described, and it was a peaceful few days. Very close to downtown and Deep Creek. Cute and very comfortable. I would definitely recommend staying here.
Evan
June 2025 · Airbnb
My 19 year old son and I took a boys mountain trip and this train car was the coolest homebase for us between rafting and zip lining. The caboose had everything we needed and was in easy walking distance to town, being located just off the end of Everett Street. Honestly there are a few quirks to staying in an old train car. The front door is a little funky the first time we used it, and there weren’t a lot of very accessible electrical outlets, but all of it was just a part of the adventure!