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New York Beer Tasting Train Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: June 3, 2025

By: Adam Burns

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast with a yearning to explore New York in a uniquely delightful way, then hopping on a beer tasting train ride might be an experience that weaves together the pleasure of craft beer with picturesque journeys through the state’s magnificent landscapes. These excursions, combining travel with tastings, showcase the flourishing craft brewery scene and the lush, ever-changing terrain of New York.

A Journey Through New York’s Brewing Heritage

New York is home to a burgeoning craft beer movement, with over 400 breweries scattered across the state. The brewing scene has deep roots, harking back to colonial times. The marriage of beer tasting while enjoy a scenic train excursion provides an excellent platform to dive deep into this rich tradition. To give you a more intimate experience, seasoned brewmasters sometimes accompany the journey, sharing insights into the brewing process, the history of each featured beer, and the stories behind the breweries.

Noteworthy Routes

A handful of heritage railroads offer beer tasting experiences across New York. Each one presents its own charm, combining segregated tastings with the inherent romance of train travel.

Adirondack Railroad

One of the most renowned routes is the Adirondack Scenic Railroad’s Utica to Thendara line. This journey provides a splendid showcase of the Adirondack wilderness, evoking the sensation of escaping into nature’s untouched grandeur.

Their "Beer & Wine Train Series" features a 2 1/2 hour excursion that runs on select dates during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.  The trip departs from Utica’s Union Station and travels north to Remsen Station before returning.  During these trips the railroad features a selection of locally crafted beer or wine from New York, during which time guests can take home a complimentary beer or wine glass.

Saratoga, Corinth and Hudson Railway

The Saratoga, Corinth and Hudson Railway is a heritage railroad in Corinth, New York, known for its historical significance and influence on local transport. It operates on historic tracks that were once part of the Delaware & Hudson, reflecting the evolution from steam to diesel locomotion and showcasing 19th and 20th-century American rail history.

The SC&H once played a vital role in local trade and transport, running between Saratoga Springs and Hudson Falls. Today, it focuses on preserving its history by offering nostalgic rail excursions.

These include educational and leisurely train rides in authentically recreated carriages through upstate New York's scenic landscapes, appealing to train enthusiasts and history buffs. The railway stands as a cultural landmark, highlighting the pivotal role of railroads in America's history.

To railfans the railroad is best known for its use of historic Alco-built diesels, including RS3s #4085, #4103, and #4118 as well as RS1 #3501, S2 #3021, and S1 #5.

The SC&H hosts two different special trips which include beer tasting on board, the popular "Sunset Limited Beer & Wine Train" which runs during a few select dates each summer as well as a celebration of "Ocktoberfest" honoring German tradition with authentic food, beers, music, games, vendors, and even wine from Fossil Stone Vineyards.

Arcade & Attica Railroad

The Arcade & Attica Railroad is a historic short-line railroad in Western New York, operating since 1917. It offers both freight services and popular excursion trains for tourists.

The scenic 15-mile journey, from Arcade to Curriers, features vintage steam and diesel locomotives, attracting rail enthusiasts and families alike. Passengers can enjoy views of the countryside and experience a piece of living history.

The railroad’s operation preserves early 20th-century rail equipment, providing educational insights into the region’s railroading past. The A&A is a unique attraction combining historical preservation with the charm of rail travel.

Each summer they host an "Ale on the Rails" event and this year it features craft beers from Beer Justice Brewing Company located in Arcade, New York.  The trip lasts just over 2 hours and guests can take home a complimentary A&A beer glass afterwards.

What to Expect During Your Journey

Each experience brings its own unique personality but shares certain enchanting commonalities. Boarding typically comes with a welcome package, often including a commemorative glass or a printed guide detailing the day’s tasting itinerary.

The train cars, transformed into cozy tasting lounges, provide intimate settings filled with laughter and conversation among fellow enthusiasts. Brewmasters or knowledgeable guides provide commentary on tasting notes and food pairings while attendees sip on carefully curated flights. The rides encourage interaction, providing a communal atmosphere where passengers share their tasting notes and favorite picks, balancing social fun with the educational aspect of the journey.

Sampling sessions often feature beers ranging from refreshing lagers to rich stouts, with stops scheduled at points of interest where additional brews can be discovered. Culinary pairings range from simple snacks to gourmet offerings; each pairing thoughtfully enhances the flavor profiles of the featured brews.

Engaging with Local Breweries

What sets these beer-tasting train rides apart is the heightened connection with local breweries. Many excursions collaborate directly with regional brewers to provide on-train tastings. Some itineraries even include stops at local breweries, allowing passengers the opportunity to tour facilities, meet the brewers, and enjoy exclusive, limited-release beers. These interactions enrich the travel experience, connecting patrons with the passion and creativity driving New York's craft beer renaissance.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Exploration

Ales on the rails offer an intimate yet thrilling way to explore both the craft of beer brewing and the scenic wonders of New York. As you glide upon historic rails with a festive ale in hand and breathtaking vistas passing by, these excursions provide a transcendental experience.

They encapsulate the heart of New York’s brewing tradition while delivering a joyous, multi-sensory adventure through one of the most beautiful states in the union. Whether you're a local or a visitor, embarking on one of these train rides promises an unforgettable celebration of flavor, history, and natural splendor.