Nevada - Dinner Train - Rides From Ely
Published: July 6, 2026
By: Adam Burns
If you’ve ever wished you could step through a time portal into the hard-working world of a 1900s short line—complete with a sprawling yard, an engine terminal that still feels alive, and trains that run through wide-open desert country—the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely is about as close as it gets. This isn’t a museum where locomotives sit behind ropes. It’s a place where the rails still ring, the shop complex still anchors the scene, and century-old power can still head out on the mainline with passengers in tow.
Nevada Northern 4-6-0 #40 leads a photo special at Steptoe Creek, Nevada on February 7, 2015. Drew Jacksich photo.Built for copper: the railroad that made Ely boom
The Nevada Northern Railway was born from copper—and from the urgent need to connect remote mines and smelters with the outside world. In the early 1900s, Ely’s mining properties were consolidated into the Nevada Consolidated Copper Company, and a railroad was incorporated in 1905 to link the mining district to the national rail network. Construction began at Cobre, where the new line met the Southern Pacific, and pushed south toward Ely. The ceremonial “last spike” was famously made of local copper and driven at Ely in late September 1906, an event still remembered as “Railroad Day.”
With the mainline established, the Nevada Northern expanded quickly to serve the region’s industrial heartbeat. Additional trackage built in 1907–1908 created what became known as the Ore Line, including routing to the mines at Ruth and a branch (often called the Hiline) reaching the company’s major smelter and concentrator at McGill. At its peak, ore trains were the railroad’s lifeblood—busy, repetitive, and absolutely essential, moving copper ore and related traffic day after day.
Passenger trains, school runs, and the end of an era
While copper was king, the Nevada Northern also provided vital passenger transportation in a very isolated part of the West. For decades it operated regular passenger service between Ely and Cobre—roughly 140 miles, a trip the railroad itself noted took about four and a half hours in typical operation.
That service ultimately faded as highways improved and traffic patterns changed. Regular passenger service ended in 1941, the same year the railroad discontinued its scheduled passenger/RPO service.
Freight and industrial service continued for decades afterward—until the copper industry that built the line began to contract. After mine closures and a long downturn, the McGill smelter shut down in 1983, and the Nevada Northern suspended operations immediately.
Preservation
Here’s the part that makes the Nevada Northern such a standout in preservation circles: when the industrial operation ended, a huge portion of the railroad’s physical plant—yard, shops, structures, and rolling stock—survived in exceptionally intact form. Over time, the property was transferred to preservation hands, and today the site is widely promoted as a rare chance to see (and ride) a living railroad museum rather than a static display.
In 2006, the East Ely facilities received top-tier recognition: the East Ely Yard/shops complex was designated a National Historic Landmark district, underscoring its importance as one of the best-preserved steam-era railroad complexes in the country.
The Nevada Northern’s own “what to see” materials lean into a feeling many visitors immediately recognize: time stopped here. The grounds include 70+ buildings/structures and roughly 30 miles of track, giving the place a scale that feels more like a working division point than a “small museum.”
A Living Museum
Modern Nevada Northern experiences are built around two big ideas:
- Train rides that put you out on authentic Nevada Northern trackage with historic equipment.
- Hands-on programs that bring you into the day-to-day reality of steam-era railroading—sometimes quite literally in the cab.
On a typical visit, you can pair an excursion with time exploring the yard and enginehouse area, where the scenery isn’t “themed”—it’s the real thing, preserved and interpreted as an operating railroad site.
A quick word on motive power: Nevada’s official state locomotive
The railroad’s steam roster is part of the draw all by itself, and Locomotive No. 40 is the celebrity. It’s a Baldwin 4-6-0 “Ten-Wheeler” built in 1910, and it became so iconic that it was officially designated Nevada’s state locomotive (effective in 2009). Depending on the season and operating plans, the Nevada Northern also highlights other steam locomotives as part of its operating program and special events.
Notable Excursions
Nevada Northern’s calendar blends traditional excursions with wonderfully specific themed rides—exact offerings can vary year to year, but the railroad prominently lists experiences such as:
- Daily Excursion Train Rides (the “classic” Nevada Northern outing)
- Star Train and other evening-oriented rides that lean into Nevada’s dark skies
- Sunset, Stars, and Champagne (a “date night” style experience)
- Rockin’ & Rollin’ Geology Train (a themed ride that pairs well with the region’s mining story)
- Seasonal and holiday programming (the broader museum operation is known for special events throughout the year)
And if you’re the kind of railfan who wants more than “just” riding in a coach, Nevada Northern also markets hands-on options like Be the Engineer (steam and diesel variants) along with other behind-the-scenes experiences.
Dinner Trains: “A Taste of Italy” in 2026
For visitors who want their excursion served with a side of romance (and a lot of flavor), Nevada Northern’s most notable dinner-focused offering is “A Taste of Italy”—an adults-oriented evening that’s both a special train and a fundraiser.
According to the railroad’s own description, Taste of Italy is an annual gala where your train is pulled by a century-old steam locomotive for a special dinner trip on the Nevada Northern mainline. Guests are treated to a multi-course Italian meal, including wine and dessert, and it’s explicitly marked as adults only.
For 2026, the Nevada Northern’s ticketing/events listing shows A Taste of Italy scheduled on a single day, September 12, with ticket pricing shown at $65 on that listing (always worth confirming at booking time in case of updates).
Final Thoughts
Plenty of tourist lines offer a nice ride. The Nevada Northern offers something rarer: an authentic railroad place—a preserved complex with the physical scale and personality of an honest-to-goodness early 20th century operation, still hosting trains in the landscape it was built to serve. With its copper-country origins, National Historic Landmark recognition, and a lineup that ranges from daily excursions to specialty trains like A Taste of Italy (2026), this is one of those destinations that can satisfy the casual traveler and the hard-core rail nut in the same weekend. To learn more about planning a trip aboard their dinner train please click here to visit their website.
Recent Articles
-
Amtrak’s Maple Leaf – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 07:29 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the strongest scenic stretches, border practicalities, and tips for a smooth New York–Toronto trip. -
Leadville Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 21, 26 02:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion, what to expect onboard, altitude considerations, and practical tips for a Leadville railroad day. -
Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 01:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the best scenic stretches, practical travel notes, and tips for foliage and shoulder-season rides. -
East Broad Top Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 21, 26 01:05 PM
This guide covers the passenger experience, what makes EBT unique, practical planning notes, and how it fits into a broader Pennsylvania railroad trip. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 21, 26 11:25 AM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Best Steam Train Rides in America (2026): Top Scenic Steam Experiences
Jul 21, 26 11:23 AM
Looking for the best steam train rides in the United States for 2026? This guide ranks the highest-value scenic steam experiences—railroads where live steam is a core part of the product, not a once-a… -
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 21, 26 11:08 AM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion, special trains, what to expect onboard, and practical tips for planning a Cumberland-area railroad day. -
Amtrak’s Sunset Limited – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 10:43 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the strongest scenic stretches, practical travel notes, and tips for a smooth multi-night trip. -
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 10:43 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the best coastal stretches, practical tips, and how to use the Surfliner as either a day trip or a link in a longer California rail itinerary. -
Ohio’s LM&M Bourbon Train: Whiskey Tasting on the Rails in Lebanon
Jul 20, 26 02:54 PM
Looking for a bourbon tasting that is not another distillery tour queue? The Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio, runs adult-oriented Food & Drink trains—and its Bourbon Train is o… -
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: Classic Dining on the Rails in Bardstown
Jul 20, 26 02:44 PM
For travelers who specifically search “dinner train” (not wine tasting, not murder mystery, not Polar Express), Bardstown is still one of the first names that comes up—and for good reason. -
New Hope Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 02:30 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main scenic product, special trains, what to expect, and how to pair the ride with a day in New Hope. -
Mount Washington Cog Railway: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 20, 26 02:08 PM
This 2026 guide covers summit and shorter trips, steam vs. biodiesel power, what to expect on the grade, and how to plan around New England’s short, intense peak season. -
Heber Valley Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 01:41 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main scenic products, special trains, and practical tips for planning a Heber outing. -
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 20, 26 01:25 PM
This 2026 guide covers full-line and shorter trip options, what you will see, classes of service, and how to plan a full day on one of America’s great scenic trains. -
Amtrak’s City of New Orleans – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 20, 26 11:25 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, what to watch for, practical travel information, and tips for a smooth one-night trip. -
Best Dinner Train Rides in America (2026): Top Scenic Experiences
Jul 20, 26 11:13 AM
Looking for the best dinner train rides in the United States for 2026? This guide ranks the highest-value scenic dining experiences—trains where the meal is the main event, not just a snack bar—and po… -
Amtrak’s Auto Train – Complete 2026 Passenger Guide
Jul 20, 26 10:59 AM
This 2026 guide covers how the service works, what the ride is like, practical tips for vehicle loading, and who should choose the Auto Train over flying or driving the whole way. -
Tennessee - Tea Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:55 AM
If you’re looking for a Chattanooga outing that feels equal parts special occasion and time-travel, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has a surprisingly elegant answer: The Homefront Tea Roo… -
Indiana -Ice Cream- Tasting Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:45 AM
The Indiana Rail Experience's "Indiana Ice Cream Train" is designed for everyone—families with young kids, casual visitors in town for the lake, and even adults who just want… -
Colorado *Wine Tasting* Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:43 AM
To truly savor these local flavors while soaking in the scenic beauty of Colorado, the concept of wine tasting trains has emerged, offering both locals and tourists a luxurious and immersive indulgenc… -
Georgia *Wine Tasting* Train Rides In Cordele
Jul 20, 26 10:22 AM
While the railroad offers a range of themed trips throughout the year, one of its most crowd-pleasing special events is the Wine & Cheese Train—a short, scenic round trip designed to feel like… -
Kansas * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Ride
Jul 20, 26 10:14 AM
Kansas, known for its sprawling wheat fields and rich history, hides a unique gem that promises both intrigue and culinary delight—murder mystery dinner trains. -
New Hampshire * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 09:05 AM
The state's murder mystery trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel. -
White Pass & Yukon Route: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 12:29 AM
This 2026 guide covers the main Summit Excursion and longer options, what you will see, and how to book around the short, intense summer season. -
Verde Canyon Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 12:10 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, classes of service, the best times to ride, and practical tips for a full half-day outing in the Verde Valley. -
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:55 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River style excursions, classes of service, peak seasons, and tips for pairing the train with a Smokies vacation. -
Royal Gorge Route Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:54 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, classes of service, the best times to ride, and practical tips for a Cañon City / Colorado Springs / Pueblo area day trip. -
Strasburg Rail Road: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:52 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion product, what to expect onboard, special trains, and practical tips for a smooth family or railfan day trip. -
Santa Fe Railroad (AT&SF): Diesel Roster (All-Time)
Jul 19, 26 08:12 PM
The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway was among the earliest and most influential American railroads to embrace diesel-electric motive power. -
America 250 Locomotive Celebration Set for August 28-30 at NCTM
Jul 19, 26 11:22 AM
The North Carolina Transportation Museum, Trains Magazine, and White River Productions have announced the America 250 Locomotive Celebration. -
West Virginia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 11:08 AM
While D&GV is known for several different excursions across the region, one of the most entertaining rides on its calendar is the Greenbrier Express Wild West Special. -
Indiana ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:56 AM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine & Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a… -
Arizona ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:45 AM
For those who want to experience the charm of Arizona's wine scene while embracing the romance of rail travel, wine tasting train rides offer a memorable journey through the state's picturesque landsc… -
Iowa ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:39 AM
The state not only boasts a burgeoning wine industry but also offers unique experiences such as wine by rail aboard the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. -
Florida * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:34 AM
Florida, known for its vibrant culture, dazzling beaches, and thrilling theme parks, also offers a unique blend of mystery and fine dining aboard its murder mystery dinner trains. -
New York * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:19 AM
New York State, renowned for its vibrant cities and verdant countryside, offers a plethora of activities for locals and tourists alike, including murder mystery train rides!" -
Georgetown Loop Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 04:15 PM
This 2026 guide covers the ride experience, mine tour add-ons, best seasons, and how to plan a smooth Denver-area railroad outing. -
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 02:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main National Park Scenic experience, bike-and-rail options, special trains, and practical tips for Northeast Ohio visitors. -
Conway Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 01:57 PM
This 2026 guide explains the main trip types, when to book for fall color, and how to plan a North Conway railroad day that fits families and serious scenery hunters alike. -
Cass Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 01:30 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main trips, what makes Cass different from ordinary tourist railroads, and how to plan around weather, grades, and peak foliage season. -
Best Scenic Train Rides in America (2026): Top Routes & Day Trips
Jul 18, 26 12:43 PM
There is no single “best” train—only the best match for your region, season, budget, and whether you want multi-day sleepers or a same-day steam excursion. -
Pennsylvania ~ Beer Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:38 AM
Today, EBT’s rebirth has introduced a growing lineup of experiences, and one of the most enticing for adult visitors is the Broad Top Brews Train. -
North Carolina ~ Beer Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:33 AM
If you’re looking for the most “Bryson City” way to combine railroading and local flavor, the Smoky Mountain Beer Run is the one to circle on the calendar. -
California ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:30 AM
This article explores the charm, routes, and offerings of these unique wine tasting trains that traverse California’s picturesque landscapes. -
Arkansas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:24 AM
This article takes you through the experience of wine tasting train rides in Arkansas, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so… -
Pennsylvania ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:17 AM
Pennsylvania, steeped in history and industrial heritage, offers a prime setting for a unique blend of dining and drama: the murder mystery dinner train ride. -
New Jersey ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:15 AM
There are currently no murder mystery dinner trains available in New Jersey although until 2023 the Cape May Seashore Lines offered this event. Perhaps they will again soon! -
USDOT Releases Phase I Penn Station Service Optimization Study
Jul 17, 26 05:56 PM
The U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration have released the Phase I report of the New York Penn Station Service Optimization Study. -
FRA Expands Automated Track Inspection Tests as CSX Begins Rollout
Jul 17, 26 05:48 PM
The Federal Railroad Administration has green-lighted a broader five-year waiver framework allowing freight railroads to expand Automated Track Inspection (ATI) technology on revenue track.
