Indiana Bourbon Tasting Train Rides
Published: March 28, 2026
By: Adam Burns
The Indiana Railway Museum in French Lick offers a “museum” experience you don’t so much walk through as ride through. Instead of halls filled with glass cases, the centerpiece here is motion: vintage passenger cars, a historic depot, and a living stretch of railroad that puts you right into the landscapes that once funneled travelers toward the region’s famous mineral springs and grand hotels. In other words, this is one of those places where the interpretive exhibit is the view out your window—and the gentle rhythm of jointed rail under your seat.
Today the museum operates under the public-facing name French Lick Scenic Railway, running excursions that mix heritage railroading with themed events throughout the year. And if there’s one trip that captures the museum’s modern vibe—classic rail travel with a distinctly 21st-century twist—it’s the Bourbon Tasting Train: a 21+ evening ride pairing curated bourbons with small dishes in first-class table seating.
A Brief History
The Indiana Railway Museum traces its roots to 1961, when it was founded in Westport, Indiana, with a small collection—one locomotive, three passenger cars—and a volunteer base of about twenty people. Early ridership was modest (estimated around 500 riders in 1962), but the goal was ambitious: preserve railroad history by operating it, not just displaying it.
As with many preservation groups, growth meant moving. The organization left Westport in 1971, relocated to Greensburg, and ultimately landed in French Lick in 1978 after reaching an agreement with Southern Railway. That agreement included a deed to sixteen miles of track stretching from West Baden to the south toward Dubois—giving the museum something priceless: a place to run.
That operating focus still defines the experience now. The museum explicitly notes you “won’t find a Museum in the traditional sense”—meaning fewer static exhibits, more time aboard historic equipment on a real right-of-way.
The Route
A big part of the museum’s appeal is how much “Southern Indiana” you get per mile. Most trips begin at a limestone depot in the heart of French Lick—steps from the resort district—and head out into the surrounding hills and woods. Scenic train rides are typically about 1 hour and 30 minutes, designed to be long enough to feel like a true outing but short enough to fit into a weekend itinerary.
The route is known for wooded scenery and classic railroad geography: cuts through limestone country, stretches that feel pleasantly remote, and a crowd-pleaser feature that always wakes up the camera phones—Burton Tunnel, described as the second-longest railroad tunnel in Indiana at just under a half-mile.
It’s also not a “loop” railroad: the train returns the way it came. The museum’s FAQ explains that the line was built as a traditional single route for bi-directional travel—so the return trip is often made in reverse after a brief stop mid-journey on scenic rides. That little operational detail is part of what makes the experience feel authentic—you’re not on an amusement ride; you’re on a working piece of railroad.
Accommodations
While motive power and consists can vary, the museum emphasizes traditional passenger comfort—especially in premium classes. First Class and Dome/Vista-style seating is built around tables (not just rows of seats), with a car attendant and service that leans into the nostalgia of mid-century travel.
For special events—particularly tastings—the table layout matters. If you’ve ever wanted that “railroad lounge” vibe (conversation across a table, pacing your pours with the scenery drifting by), this is precisely the kind of operation that designs events for it.
The Bourbon Tasting Train
It is presumed this train will run again in 2026 but so far the museum has not updated its schedule for this season. In 2025, it was scheduled as a 1 hour and 30 minute ride with a 5:00 PM (EST) departure.
Ticketing and seating: First Class vs. Vista Dome
For 2025, pricing was listed at:
$70 per seat at a First Class table
$90 per seat at a Vista Dome table
The premium here isn’t just the seat—it’s the experience of being at a dedicated table with service, and (in the dome) enhanced viewing. If your readers are weighing value, the simplest way to frame it is: First Class is the classic “cocktail lounge by rail,” while Dome/Vista is that plus a scenery upgrade.
There’s also a helpful policy note: to ensure exclusive seating for your party, the railway recommends buying an entire table. And if a table has fewer than four people, guests should not expect “extra” alcohol servings—each passenger receives one drink pairing per course only. In other words: this is designed as a structured pairing, not an open-ended bar crawl.
What’s served (2025): cocktails + water (and why that matters)
One detail that’s easy to miss—and worth highlighting in any visitor guide—is the beverage limitation: the site notes that drinks on this trip are alcoholic-based cocktails, with water served, and no other beverage service available.
That’s not a downside, but it is a planning point. If someone expects soft drinks, coffee, or alternative options, they should know upfront. It also subtly signals the kind of event this is: curated and paced, with the focus squarely on the pairing experience.
Pairings menu (2025): small dishes, big flavors
The Bourbon Tasting Train emphasizes that food is tasting-sized, matched to each bourbon—not a full meal. That’s a feature, not a bug: small plates let the bourbon stay central without turning the evening into a dinner service.
For the 2025 offering, the published menu included:
Stuffed dates
Asian-flare BBQ meatballs
Tiramisu
And the bourbon lineup listed:
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond
Hard Truth Sweet Mash Small Batch
Wilderness Trail Straight Wheated Bourbon
Tips for catching it in 2026 (since it’s “presumed to return”)
Because the event remains listed but 2026 dates may not be posted yet, the best advice is tactical:
- Watch the event listing and schedule pages (the Bourbon Train page is already structured for quick date updates).
- Join the mailing list if you want first notice—especially for limited-seating tastings.
- Decide your seating goal early (First Class vs. Dome/Vista), then buy accordingly when dates drop.
- Book as a full table if you want your group seated together without strangers.
To keep up to date on this train for its potential 2026 return please click here to visit the museum's website.
Recent Articles
-
Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:19 AM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist…
