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

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

Bathroom

  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Iron

What this place offers

Common

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

Bathroom

  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Iron

Family

  • Board games
  • Children's books and toys

Home safety

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

Kitchen and dining

  • Coffee
  • Coffee maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Location features

  • Private entrance Separate street or building entrance

Outdoors

  • Fire pit
  • Garden or backyard
  • 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

Lindsey
September 2025 · Airbnb
We loved staying at the caboose! Perfect location to walk downtown and was very peaceful and quiet. We enjoyed using the fire pit in the evenings. Very clean and comfortable; we will absolutely stay here again when we visit Bryson City.
Alison
September 2025 · Airbnb
My kids loved it. It was such a fun and unique experience sleeping in a train car. The location was perfect and walkable to the downtown areas, shops, restaurants, train station, etc. They want to come back and do it all over again!
Maria
September 2025 · Airbnb
This was a unique and charming place to stay! Perfect for small families and train lovers of all kinds. Equipped with a small collection of books and classic children’s toys. Shower gets hot, and the mini fridge has a small freezer space for ice packs. Beds are soft with comfy quilts. We would absolutely stay here again.