Lover’s Leap

About Our Observation Car

The “Lover’s Leap” round-end observation car, named after the iconic rock face in “The Narrows” along our route, joined our fleet in 2024 through a partnership with Great Scenic Railway Journeys (GSRJ).

Originally built in 1949 as New York Central Tavern-Lounge Observation Car #48, the Lover’s Leap served on the NYC’s popular James Whitcomb Riley route between Cincinnati and Chicago. In December 1959, the car was sold to Kansas City Southern, where it underwent extensive remodeling, removing most of its original NYC interior features. After retirement, the car passed through several private owners, including Starlight and Artrain, before narrowly escaping the scrapyard in 2013 thanks to GSRJ's intervention.

With the assistance of WMSR, GSRJ undertook a complete interior restoration of the car, which debuted in 2024 as a First Class offering for the WMSR Polar Express Train Rides. Its debut was met with great enthusiasm, selling out every trip during the season.

Looking ahead to 2025, WMSR plans to outfit the Lover’s Leap with its signature red circus stripe paint. Beginning in May, it will proudly operate behind steam locomotive #1309, continuing its legacy as a cherished part of our fleet.