DL&W's Tavern-Lounge Observation Cars

Published: July 15, 2026

The tavern-lounge-observation cars on the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western's Phoebe Snow were signature tail-end cars (numbered 789 and 790), not built by Pullman but by the Budd Company. These streamlined, blunt-end (non-dome) observation cars were introduced with the streamlined Phoebe Snow on November 15, 1949. The train ran a daylight schedule between Hoboken, NJ, and Buffalo, NY (about 8 hours), with some cars continuing to Chicago.

The tavern-lounge-obs cars featured a bar/lounge area and rear observation platform, making them the train’s visual and experiential highlight—complete with Phoebe Snow drumheads on the tail end. They embodied the train’s modern, scenic appeal along the Lackawanna Cut-Off, Pocono Mountains, and other routes.

A DL&W publicity photo featuring the railroad's new tavern-lounge observation car #790 in the late fall of 1949.

Construction Background

Builder: Budd Company (stainless steel construction, typical of their streamlined passenger cars).
Build/Delivery Date: 1949 (supplied by Budd alongside dining cars specifically for the Phoebe Snow’s debut that November).
Design: These were slab-sided Budd observation cars with tavern-lounge features—relatively rare, as Budd built only a limited number of such flat-end obs cars.

Overall Layout and Design

These were blunt-end (square-ended, non-dome) observation cars with slab-sided Budd fluting. The car was oriented with the observation platform at the rear. Typical length for such Budd cars was around 85 feet. The interior divided roughly into zones from front (vestibule/forward end) to rear (observation):

Forward Section (Entry/Lounge Area): Vestibule entrance leading into a lounge or seating area with comfortable, often rotating or fixed armchairs arranged for conversation and viewing. This provided flexible seating for passengers enjoying the scenery or socializing.
Central Tavern/Bar Area: The heart of the car—a tavern or snack-bar/lounge section with a prominent bar (often U-shaped, L-shaped, or counter-style for efficient service). This included counter seating, nearby tables or booths, and standing room for casual drinks and light refreshments. It served as the social hub, with menu items like beverages, snacks, and possibly light fare (distinct from the full dining cars in the consist). The bar area was designed for quick service without full meal capabilities, which later contributed to operational debates on the EL.
Rear Observation Lounge: Open to all passengers, this featured plush seating (armchairs and sofas) oriented toward large rear windows and the open observation platform. It offered panoramic views of the route (Poconos, viaducts, river valleys, etc.). The rear platform itself had protective railings and steps for outdoor enjoyment in good weather.

The cars emphasized Art Deco/modern streamlined aesthetics typical of 1940s-50s Budd equipment: polished stainless steel trim, warm wood paneling accents, comfortable upholstery, indirect lighting, and large windows throughout for natural light and views. Air-conditioning and modern (for the era) amenities made them a flagship feature. Capacity was geared toward lounge use rather than high-density seating—likely accommodating dozens comfortably in mixed lounge/bar/obs configurations.

Key Features and Amenities

Seating: Mix of individual reclining or swivel chairs, sofas, and booth/table setups. Emphasis on comfort for long daytime rides.

Bar Service: Refreshment bar with "latest design" conveniences (per contemporary timetables). Open to all passengers, not just parlor-class.

Observation Platform: Signature rear platform for fresh air and scenery—iconic for tail-end photos and passenger experience.

Decor and Atmosphere: DL&W branding, including Phoebe Snow motifs in early years. Clean, bright stainless-steel exterior complemented warm, inviting interiors.

Service History

They operated primarily on the Phoebe Snow (trains 1/3 westbound and 2/32 or similar eastbound). Two consists were equipped (hence the pair of cars). After the 1960 DL&W-Erie merger forming Erie Lackawanna (EL), the cars were briefly stored (leading many to think the train was discontinued), but they returned in 1963 under president William White. They were removed again later and used occasionally on specials before being sold. These cars were central to the Phoebe Snow’s identity as one of the DL&W’s (and later EL’s) flagship streamlined trains until its end in 1966.

Both cars survive today. They served as parlor cars on the Long Island Rail Road before moving to Metro-North, where they have been used for inspection and business trains.

Facebook X Pinterest Tumblr Reddit WhatsApp Messenger

DL&W's Tavern-Lounge Observation Cars

Construction Background

Overall Layout and Design

Key Features and Amenities

Subscribe To American Rails!

Service History