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Nevada Dinner Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Published: March 8, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Nevada, known for its expansive deserts, striking mountain ranges, and rich history, offers unique opportunities for those seeking a blend of scenic beauty and nostalgia.
One of the most enchanting ways to experience Nevada's landscapes is by embarking on a scenic dinner train journey. These trains combine the charm of vintage rail travel with gourmet dining, providing an unforgettable experience. While the number of scenic dinner trains in Nevada is limited, each offers a unique glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural history.
Nevada Northern Railway (Ely)
Located in Ely, NV, the Nevada Northern Railway is a National Historic Landmark offering authentic steam-powered train rides. While dinner trains are a seasonal treat, the overall experience provides a perfect combination of education and entertainment for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.
Scenic Experience
The railway travels through the high desert landscapes of northeastern Nevada. Passengers are treated to sweeping views of the Robinson and Steptoe Valleys. The railway’s genuine steam engines enhance the nostalgic feel, helping passengers imagine the pioneering spirit of the early 20th century.
Dining Experience
The railroad hosts the "Taste of Italy" dinner train. According to the railroad this event offers the following: "Your coaches will be pulled by one of our century-old steam locomotives for a trip on the Nevada Northern Railway mainline. It will be our pleasure to serve you a classic, multi-course Italian meal, complete with flowing wine, and dessert."
You also may be interested in another special train known as the Evening Champagne & Star Train where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while viewing the incredible night sky.
Overview
The Nevada Northern Railway is unique in that it is a living museum, similar to the East Broad Top Railroad of Pennsylvania, whereby the entire original route is preserved, some of which still hosts train rides for the general public.
The railroad's history can be traced back to 1905 and historically handled copper from mines located around Ely to connections with the Western Pacific (Shafter) and Southern Pacific (Cobre). Freight service ended in 1983 although today, the entire 141 mile main line from Kimberley to Cobre is preserved by the White Pine Historical Railroad Foundation.
However, only a small section from Ruth to Ely is currently maintained for excursions. Also be sure to check out their large collection of preserved steam and diesel locomotives at the historic shops in Ely.
Virginia & Truckee (Virginia City)
The Virginia & Truckee Railroad is perhaps the most famous historical railway in Nevada. Originally constructed in the late 19th century to serve the booming mining towns, this railroad has been meticulously restored and offers passengers an authentic taste of the Old West. While the primary service is a sightseeing tour, there are special events throughout the year that include dinner service.
The historic V&T began with its 1869 chartering in 1869 to serve Reno and Carson City.
The V&T was constructed for the express purpose of hauling ore, lumber and supplies for the famed Comstock Lode, the operation of extracting gold and, particularly, silver from beneath the mountains and hills of Virginia City.
During the 19th century the railroad was extremely wealthy in the movement of gold and silver ore; by 1878 it had handled $400 million in business. In total, the railroad operated a little over 50 miles of rail line. While the mining operations around Virginia City signaled the peak years of the V&T's operations it remained a viable freight until service finally ended in 1950.
In 1974 the first efforts began to restore part of the railroad for public excursions although the project did not gain serious traction until 1991. Today, the railroad operates about 15 miles of track between Gold Hill (near Virginia City) to Carson City.
Scenic Experience
Today, about 15 miles are operable, much of which has been rebuilt since the early 2000's. The journey takes passengers through the picturesque Comstock Lode, an area rich with mining history and stunning desert vistas. The train chugs through tunnels, over mountain ranges, and past the iconic silver mines that once made Nevada famous. As you dine, you’ll be treated to views of the desert sagebrush and the Sierra Nevada mountains on the horizon.
Dining Experience
They have slowly added an increasing number of excursion options including "Toast of the Canyon Wine Tasting Train."
While regular rides focus on sightseeing, look for special events such as themed dinner trains around holidays. These events often include gourmet meals prepared by local chefs, offering a taste of Nevada’s culinary scene. Be sure to check their calendar on the official Virginia & Truckee Railroad website for current offerings.
Overview
Nevada's scenic dinner trains provide a unique way to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, from rugged deserts to verdant valleys. While options for dinner-specific trains are limited, the available experiences each offer something distinctive, blending historical education, natural beauty, and culinary delights.
Whether you're reliving the glory days of the silver rush, exploring geological wonders, or engaging in an active rail biking adventure, Nevada’s scenic train offerings promise memorable escapades suitable for both families and solo travelers.
When planning your train dining adventure, consider the seasonal nature of these experiences and book early, especially for special events or holiday-themed dinner trains. Each offers a chance to step back in time, savor delightful flavors, and imprint Nevada’s breathtaking vistas into your memory. Enjoy the journey!
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