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Arkansas ~Wine Tasting~ Train Rides

Published: October 9, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The Natural State, as Arkansas is lovingly known, offers travelers an experience that engages all senses, a unique fusion of lush scenic beauty and delightful flavors aboard wine tasting trains.

As railroads wind through stunning landscapes, they take passengers on a journey that combines the elegance of wine tasting with the charm of vintage train travel.

This article takes you through the experience of these rail excursions, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so alluring.

The Allure of Train Journeys and Wine Tasting

The rhythmic clatter of train wheels, the velvety taste of a fine Pinot Noir, and the breathtaking view of Arkansas’s landscapes passing by the window—these elements combine to create an unforgettable journey. Wine tasting trains serve as the perfect escapade for those looking to enjoy a leisurely day trip filled with relaxation, luxury, and discovery.

These trips provide an opportunity to engage not just with wine, but also with the broader cultural and geological narratives of Arkansas. With a deep-rooted heritage in viticulture, the state offers a range of local wines, from traditional muscadine varieties to innovative craft wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway

The Eureka Springs & North Arkansas is a heritage railroad located in the picturesque Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas.  The name itself can be traced back to 1882 as the Eureka Springs Railway.

The modern company was known as the Arkansas & Ozarks Railway, which at its peak stretched 360 miles from Joplin, Missouri to Helena, Arkansas. Today, the ES&NA operates as a tourist attraction on 2 1/2 miles of rebuilt A&O trackage, offering visitors a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

Visitors can experience the charm of vintage train rides, while learning about the history and impact of the railway on the region. The railroad offers particularly popular dinner and lunch trains while traveling through the Ozarks, providing a unique perspective on the stunning natural beauty of the area.

The railroad does not offer any official wine tasting trains.  However, their dinner trains - lasting about 2 hours - do offer wine selections on board along with tasty menu options.

As a heritage railway, the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway stands as a testament to the historical significance of railroads in the development and growth of the region. Through its preservation efforts, the railway not only celebrates its storied past but also contributes to the cultural and historical richness of Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

An Unforgettable Experience

Wine tasting trains offer more than just a sampling of fine wines—they provide a chance to slow down, to travel through a beautiful landscape both metaphorically and physically, and to emerge enriched by the journey.

For those looking to explore new flavors, learn more about the craft of winemaking, or simply enjoy the journey, these excursions are a delightful choice. The melding of train travel with wine tasting combines the nostalgia of yesteryear with the pleasures of contemporary palate experiences—a journey truly worth embarking on.