The "My Old Kentucky Dinner Train"
Last revised: August 21, 2024
By: Adam Burns
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is an upscale attraction based in Bardstown, Kentucky and hosted by short line conglomerate RJ Corman Railroad Group.
The dinner train covers a distance of just over 18 miles between Bardstown and Limestone Springs Junction, Kentucky (37-mile round trip) as it winds its way along a former Louisville & Nashville branch line.
Trips normally range in length from 2.5 to 3 hours. The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train was started in the late 1980's to complement Rick Corman's first railroad, today known as the Bardstown Line.
Since its inception, the train has become quite popular thanks to Corman's vision of providing top notch service.
Unlike many excursions, the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train operates year-round although their lunch/dinner menu change depending upon the season.
As a formal setting please be aware the railroad asks patrons to dress appropriately! Their web page provides all the details regarding attire requirements.
RJ Corman's two FP7s that power the "My Old Kentucky Dinner Train," #1940 and #1941, are seen here after completing another excursion in Bardstown on June 20, 2009. The two covered wagons began their careers on the Southern as #6138 and #6141. Doug Kroll photo.RJ Corman Railroad Group
Without the vision of Rick Corman there would be no RJ Corman Railroad Group. Today, it is one of the top short line conglomerates in operation although, ironically, did not directly begin in the railroad industry hauling freight.
In the June, 2007 issue of Trains Magazine under a piece entitled, "Who Is R.J. Corman? And Why Is His Name On The Side Of These Locomotives?," Bob Withers offered an in-depth look at this unique company.
Mr. Corman was a self-made man who launched his business in 1973 while still in high school. Using nothing more than a rented backhoe and his pickup truck he believed there was great demand in cleaning up derailments.
While he struggled for many years the concept would eventually prove successful for two reasons:
- Firstly, his company was launched during the industry's darkest era when track conditions were generally wretched and derailments frequent.
- Secondly, he befriended Luther Deaton, Jr., then a young officer of commercial lending at Central Bank & Trust in Lexington, Kentucky.
The two struck-up a quick friendship thanks to a related interest in railroading and the loans Corman received, in addition to the bank's patience and belief in his endeavor, provided him the time to build a multi-million dollar empire.
A pair of RJ Corman SD40-2's lead freight RJC-2 through Fleming Summit, Pennsylvania on October 21, 2013. Mike Derrick photo.Corman would establish his headquarters in Nicholasville, Kentucky which today has expanded to a 1,500-acre site.
The company has branched out into fields far beyond derailment/cleanup services. These include:
- Material sales (providing hardware for railroads),
- Industrial switching
- Distribution centers
- New railroad construction
- Industrial vacuum services
- Rental equipment
- Aviation services
Corman became directly involved in railroading during the 1980's thanks to then Seaboard System president and chief executive officer, Richard D. Sanborn, Jr. who was impressed with his derailment services.
Sanborn wanted to spin-off a former Louisville & Nashville branch which ran from Bardstown Junction, Kentucky (along the ex-L&N Louisville-Nashville main line) to Bardstown.
The corridor had originally been built as the Bardstown & Louisville Railroad in 1860 and once ran as far as Hill, Kentucky.
It was acquired by the L&N in 1864. The 20-mile "Bardstown Line" began freight operations in January, 1987. The following year it was complemented by a tourist attraction, the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train.
Rick Corman
Mr. Rick Corman was your storybook entrepreneur, believing in hard work and doing whatever was required to create a successful business.
A few years prior to his passing he was featured in Fortune Magazine's March, 2011 issue.
At that time his efforts had produced a company boasting $300 million in annual revenue, $50 million in annual profits, and a net worth well into the millions.
Today, RJ Corman, whose famous "Corman Red" paint scheme (the color of his first pickup truck) adorns everything from locomotives to helicopters, employs more than 700.
For all of his accomplishments, Corman was a very approachable and personable individual although he demanded the same work ethic from his employees as he did himself. Holding true to his philosophies the company's future appears bright in his absence.
Corman SD40T-2 #5361, SD40-2 #3944, and GP38 #3802 team up on a freight as it rolls through Midway, Kentucky on the late afternoon of July 23, 2010. Doug Kroll photo.Train Overview
Instead of simply hosting train rides and hoping to attract a few curious riders, Mr. Corman had a vision with the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train.
Despite its relatively obscure location, as James D. Porterfield notes in his book, "From the Dining Car: The Recipes and Stories Behind Today's Greatest Rail Dining Experiences," Corman believed an upscale service providing fine dining on-board with evening departures would prove successful.
It turns out he was right as the train has been in continuous operation now for more than 30 years. For power the train utilizes a pair of former Southern Railway FP7 streamlined diesel locomotives.
In spite of its immediate obscure location the train is not far from several populate regions such as Louisville (40+ miles), Lexington (60 miles) and Fort Knox (40 miles).
If you’re a planning a trip on the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train prices vary depending on the train. A standard lunch is less expensive than an evening dinner, which runs more than $80 a plate for an adult.
While the prices may seem high the train has become quite famous for its food an dining experience, so you shouldn’t be disappointed with the experience.
Dress Code Requirement!
Few tourist railroads require a dress code although the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is not your typical such attraction.
As a formal venue they request customers be dignified and well dressed. According to the railroad:
"My Old Kentucky Dinner Train requires dressy casual attire. For women, reasonable length skirts/dresses, full length trousers or nice denim jeans combined with a dress shirt, polo or sweater set are acceptable.
For men, collared dress shirts, golf polo’s or sweaters paired with dress slacks, khakis, nice denim jeans or nice dress shorts are acceptable.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train adheres to these standards, and we ask that you please come appropriately dressed for our fine dining excursions."
RJ Corman power ahead of train RJC-1 with a cut of loaded coal from the Clymer loadout rolls through the Rosebud loadout at Stifflertown, Pennsylvania as an MOW crew take a break on October 21, 2013. Mike Derrick photo.The train boards from the restored Louisville & Nashville freight depot in Bardstown that dates to 1860 (the building's passenger section was removed in 1953 after the L&N stopped service over the branch).
Today, the railroad has spent much money and effort to improve the boarding location by paving the track approaches for easier train access.
Additionally, they have installed attractive outdoor lighting so folks can easily see when exiting and entering.
At one time, RJ Corman even entered steam locomotive preservation when it acquired a former Chinese locomotive, Class QJ 2-10-2 #7040 which arrived in New Orleans on December 24, 2007.
Nicknamed "Old Smokey" it made its inaugural run on May 24, 2008 hauling the "Sand Special" which consisted of six new gondolas of sand and a caboose.
The locomotive, based in Lexington, is relatively new having been built only in 1986 by Datong Locomotive Works for use on China's Ji-Tong Railway.
Locomotive Roster
RJ Corman utilizes a pair of history FP7 locomotives for its My Old Kentucky Dinner Train attraction. These diesels began their careers on the Southern Railway.
| Road Number | Builder | Type | Date Built | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1940 | EMD | FP7 | 10/1950 | Ex-Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas Pacific (Southern Railway) #6141 |
| 1941 | EMD | FP7 | 5/1950 | Ex-Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas Pacific (Southern Railway) #6138 |
After Corman's acquisition it enjoyed a series of special runs over the 118-mile Central Kentucky Lines, another former L&N route connecting Winchester and Anchorage.
Some thought perhaps it would eventually be used on the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train thanks to a steam locomotive's natural public appeal.
However, the big 2-10-2 wound up playing a relatively minor role in the Corman empire.
Then, Rick Corman passed away on August 23, 2013 at the age of 58 after a long battle with multiple myeloma (a rare type of blood cancer), first discovered in 2001.
While the future of the big steamer remains in doubt and will likely leave the Corman fold at some point, the dinner train will certainly continue to remain an important (albeit minor) aspect of the company.
To learn more about experiencing the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train please click here to visit their web page at RJ Corman's official website.
Here, they provide everything you need to know regarding riding the train including pricing, directions, the correct attire, lodging, special events, and much more.
Recent Articles
-
Northwestern Steel & Wire: 1936 - 2001
May 26, 26 10:52 PM
Northwestern Steel & Wire was a major steel manufacturer located in Sterling, Illinois operating from 1936-2001. It was also well known for its extensive industrial railroad, operating steam until 198… -
Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:32 PM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Georgia 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:22 PM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
New Hampshire Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:17 PM
Climb aboard Granite State Railway's Firecracker Trains—a patriotic, family-friendly fireworks spectacular rolling right through the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. -
Utah Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:14 PM
Every July, as America celebrates its birthday, the Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah, rolls out a special tradition: the Freedom Train. -
North Carolina "Wild West" Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:12 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:00 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Maine "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:46 AM
This year for Father's Day, why not trade the conventional gifts and barbeque in for something exceptional—a scenic train ride across the beautiful state of Maine. -
Minnesota "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:43 AM
If you're in Minnesota and looking for a unique way to spend this day with your dad, consider taking a scenic train ride. -
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…
