1. Home
 ›
2. Beer & Ale Tasting Trains
 ›
3. New Mexico

New Mexico Beer Tasting Train Rides

Published: September 29, 2025

By: Adam Burns

New Mexico pairs wide-open skies and storied rail lines with a craft beer scene that punches well above its weight. Put the two together and you get one of the Southwest’s most memorable experiences: beer tasting train rides. Whether you’re a traveler looking for a one-of-a-kind evening or a local seeking a fresh way to sample the state’s brews, here’s what to know, who’s running them, and how to get the most from your ride.

Where the beer trains run

Sky Railway (Santa Fe)
If you’ve heard about beer on rails in New Mexico, odds are it’s Sky Railway. Running the historic line between downtown Santa Fe and the railroad town of Lamy, Sky Railway operates themed excursions with live entertainment, light bites, and a focus on local food and drink. Their schedule changes seasonally, and beer-centric rides tend to appear as limited-run specials or as part of broader “sips” experiences that feature regional producers. Expect curated tastings featuring New Mexico craft breweries, scenic desert vistas through the Galisteo Basin, and a relaxed, social vibe. Departures typically originate from the Santa Fe Depot (near the Railyard) or Lamy Station, with round-trip experiences lasting a few hours.

Because Sky Railway rotates themes often—think sunset rides, stargazing trips, or holiday specials—beer-forward events may be listed under names like Oktoberfest, Craft Beer, or tasting flights. It’s best to check their current calendar and look for descriptions that highlight breweries, beer pairings, or tasting menus. Seating ranges from standard to premium lounge-style cars, and some rides include souvenir glassware or small bites designed to complement the pours.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Chama)
The Cumbres & Toltec is a beloved heritage steam railroad that straddles the New Mexico-Colorado border, with New Mexico departures from Chama. Its bread and butter are full-day scenic journeys, but it also runs special events throughout the season. Depending on the year, those specials may include themed trains with regional culinary or beverage partners. If and when beer-focused runs are offered—say, an Oktoberfest-style evening or a tasting add-on—they sell out quickly. The scenery here is a different kind of magic: mountain meadows, high passes, and the feel of time travel aboard narrow-gauge steam. Check the railroad’s events page well ahead of your travel dates.

New Mexico Rail Runner (Albuquerque–Santa Fe corridor)
The Rail Runner is the state’s commuter line connecting Albuquerque, the Rio Grande corridor, and Santa Fe. Alcohol is not served on regular service and open containers are generally prohibited. Occasionally, third parties arrange special-event charters or coordinated excursions involving breweries or festivals at the endpoints—but tasting onboard isn’t part of ordinary operations. If you hear about a “wine or beer train” connected to Rail Runner, verify specifics directly with the event organizer and the railroad; in most cases, the tastings occur before or after the train ride, not during.

What to expect on a beer tasting train

- Curated pours: Tastings are typically led by the onboard team or brewery partners, highlighting a range of styles—pilsners and lagers for easy sipping, hop-forward IPAs, malty ambers, and seasonal one-offs. Expect tasting flights or tokens for select beers, with full pours available for purchase on some rides.
- Local flavor: New Mexico’s craft scene is deep. Depending on the event, you might see breweries from Santa Fe, Albuquerque, or smaller towns showcased. Lineups rotate, so think of each ride as a snapshot of the state’s liquid culture.
- Scenery as a pairing: On the Santa Fe–Lamy line, the golden hour washes over adobe silhouettes and the high desert; after dusk, stars put on a show. In the north, the Chama Valley and high passes offer a cinematic backdrop of pines, meadows, and wide mountain skies.
- Entertainment and bites: Many themed runs include live music, storytelling, or interpretive guides, plus snacks that complement beer—pretzels, artisanal cheeses, or light tapas. Some events offer premium charcuterie boxes or food truck partnerships at the depot.

When to go

- Spring and early summer: Mild temperatures and wildflowers in higher elevations; more frequent event rotations begin.
- Late summer into fall: Prime season for beer-centric rides. Harvest flavors, festbiers, and Oktoberfest themes are common. Northern routes can deliver changing aspens.
- Winter: Schedules can be reduced, but holiday-themed runs sometimes include special beverage features. Always check calendars.

How to plan and book

- Start with the operator’s event calendar: Beer trains are limited and date-specific. Sign up for email alerts or follow operators on social media to catch new releases.
- Compare seating classes: Standard seating is great for groups; lounge or premium cars can offer table service or better views. Prices vary based on class and inclusions.
- Know what’s included: Some tickets bundle a tasting flight; others are pay-as-you-go once aboard. Verify food options, souvenir glassware, and any entertainment.
- Bring ID: You’ll need a government-issued photo ID for tastings. Expect wristbands for 21+ guests.
- Transportation: If you’re not staying near the depot, arrange a rideshare or have a designated driver. Some Santa Fe rides depart from and return to downtown, which makes walking or rideshare easy.

Practical tips for a great ride

- Eat first, sip smart: Even with snacks offered, a light meal beforehand balances tasting flights, especially at altitude.
- Hydrate: High desert air is dry. Bring water or buy it onboard to stay comfortable.
- Dress in layers: Desert evenings cool quickly. A light jacket is smart even in summer.
- Arrive early: Allow time for parking, check-in, and settling into your seats.
- Pack light: Small bags are easier to manage in historic cars. Follow the operator’s policy on outside food and beverages.
- Respect the rails: These are moving trains. Hold your glass securely, use handrails, and listen to crew instructions.

Responsible enjoyment and policies

- Age restrictions: Beer tasting components are for guests 21+. Family-friendly cars may exist on some rides, but alcohol is restricted to adults with valid ID.
- Onboard rules: Typically, outside alcohol is prohibited, cannabis is not allowed, and smoking is restricted to designated areas or not permitted at all. Policies vary—check your confirmation email.
- Tipping: If there’s table service or a bar, bring a card or cash for gratuities.
- Motion and accessibility: Trains sway and historic cars can have stairs and narrow aisles. If you have mobility considerations, contact the operator ahead of time for accessible seating details.

Make it a fuller beer trip

- In Santa Fe: Extend your evening at local taprooms before or after your ride. The city offers a robust lineup of breweries and beer-friendly eateries within a short drive of the depot.
- In Albuquerque: If your travels take you south, the ABQ beer scene is nationally recognized. While you can’t taste aboard regular Rail Runner service, it’s a convenient way to pair a day of museums and taprooms with a car-free commute between Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
- Northern detours: If you’re riding from Chama, build in time to explore small-town cafes and scenic overlooks. Seasonal hours are common, so call ahead.

Why beer and rails work so well here

New Mexico’s craft beer identity emphasizes place: water profiles tailored to bright, clean lagers; bold, aromatic hops that suit the dry climate; and barrel-aged or mixed-fermentation projects that reflect an experimental streak. On a train, that sense of place expands—your glass becomes a lens on the landscape. As you sip, the terrain shifts: juniper-dotted hills, rust-red mesas, far-off peaks. It’s an experience that slows you down in the best way.

Final checks before you go

- Verify the date, departure station, and inclusions on your ticket.
- Confirm whether your ride is round-trip and how long you’ll be on board.
- Check weather and sunset times; the light is part of the show.
- Review refund or change policies; special events often have stricter terms.

Bottom line

Beer tasting train rides in New Mexico are limited, popular, and worth planning around. Sky Railway in Santa Fe is the most frequent home for beer-forward excursions, while the Cumbres & Toltec may feature occasional themed events in season. Because offerings change, your best move is to watch event calendars, book early, and show up ready to sip responsibly. Do that, and you’ll be rewarded with a uniquely New Mexican pairing: craft beer and unforgettable views, one mile of track at a time.