New York Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Last revised: April 28, 2026
By: Adam Burns
New York is a state buffered by Lake Superior and Lake Erie to the east with might Hudson River running from north-to-south down its western periphery. In addition, the Adirondack Mountains occupy its northeastern region while the Allegheny Plateau and Catskill Mountains can be found to its south.
With so much interesting geography, New York's natural beauty is quite spectacular. One of the best ways to see this is by train. Perhaps the easiest way to do so is via Amtrak, the nation's intercity passenger rail service, which operates trains throughout New York.
In addition, a number of heritage railroads and museums host bucolic trips that harken back to days gone by when much of the traveling public used rail service to reach their intended destination.
Some type of food service was always provided with these trains and even included full dining amenities if the trip was of particular length. Today, some heritage lines and museums bring this experience back to life. The information listed below highlights those organizations which operate either full-course dinner trains, or some type of food service on-board.
It's the early Penn Central as a former New York Central E8A, #4041, has train #80 - an "Empire Service" run - at Hudson, New York on September 2, 1968. Roger Puta photo.Overview
Adirondack Railroad
The Adirondack Railroad began in 1992 when the Adirondack Railway Preservation Society was started to save the former New York Central's Adirondack Division that originally ran from Utica all of the way to Montreal, Quebec.
In latter years, it was cut back to Lake Placid, a distance of just over 150 miles. Their plan was to start a small tourist railroad of just 4 miles between Thendara to Minnehaha. Their ambitions later involved opening the entire route. Alas, this never transpired.
Today, the railroad only owns from Utica to Tupper Lake, with the remainder abandoned and now a state trail. In 2023 the Adirondack Railroad began hosting dinner trains!
Known as the Adirondack Dinner Train they are hosted only on select dates. Each trip departs at 6 PM and lasts a total of 3 hours. The dinners are prepared by Chef Patrick O’Connor, owner of Feast & Festivities by O’Connor’s.
There are different classes available for the trip, including First and Diamond Class (this includes dome car access for maximum viewing) with either private tables or general seating options available.
In addition to their dinner train the railroad hosts a number of their special trains throughout the year on their café car, which feature light snacks and beverages.
Finally, one noteworthy special of interest is the and Beer & Wine Train (departs from Utica). Your train travels to Remsen Station during which time guests can sample a variety of drinks.
Arcade & Attica Railroad
The Arcade & Attica is based in Arcade, New York. Its history began as the Attica & Sheldon of 1836, which never made it off paper. The operation, which initially began as an effort to provide local farmers with efficient transportation, later had big dreams of reaching Buffalo, New York with Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania via Attica and Arcade.
Unfortunately, these efforts failed and following numerous name changes, and the line which was completed spent several years as a 3-foot, narrow-gauge operation.
On October 13, 1894 the property was acquired by Spencer Bullis who worked in the lumber industry. He reorganized it as the Buffalo, Arcade & Attica (BA&A) and began to standard-gauge the line; the first segment (Attica-Curriers) was completed on January 9, 1895 with the remainder finished by December 1st. Service commenced the following month.
Afterwards, the line was sold again to the Buffalo & Susquehanna, which was acquire by the Baltimore & Ohio. The BA&A was spun-off as a short line once more. It failed again in 1917 and soon after reorganized as the Arcade & Attica.
The A&A settled into the role of local short line. The late 1950s also saw the A&A's system nearly cut in half when Tonawanda Creek flooded on January 23, 1957. Repairs for the line south of Attica proved too expensive, and the railroad was abandoned above the small community of North Java.
Today, the A&A continues to operate the Arcade - North Java segment as both a freight carrier and passenger line, hauling excursions to the traveling public during the warmer months every year.
They host the "Murder Mystery Dinner Train" in July and August where guests can enjoy a meal (catered by Catered Creations!) and unravel a mystery.
Finally, adults may be interested in their "Ales & Wine On The Rails!" special where spirits can be sampled during the trip. Finally, all regular excursions offer light snacks and refreshments.
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad, operated by the Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society, uses tracks originally built by a company of the same name, the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley.
This system began as the Cooperstown & Susquehanna Valley Railroad Company of 1865 with intentions of connecting Cooperstown to "...a point at or near Colliersville forming a junction with the Albany and Susquehanna Rail Road." according to the railroad's charter.
The Albany & Susquehanna would later become a subsidiary of the Delaware & Hudson Railroad, as would the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley, which completed its line on July 14, 1869.
The C&CV has been a heritage railroad since the Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society acquired the line from the then-Delaware Otsego Corporation in 1996. Today, they host excursions throughout the warmer months, and also host several specials.
Their trips involving food and/or beverage services includes the Brooks BBQ Dinner Trains and Ice Cream Social Train. To learn more about these events, and all of the railroad's excursions, please visit their website via the link above.
Delaware & Ulster Railroad
~ At this time the railroad is temporarily closed as the they complete track repairs. Please visit their website for updates. ~
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is based in Stamford, using trackage originally owned by the Ulster & Delaware Railroad.
Their Rip Van Winkle Flyer whisks passenger back in time aboard dome, tavern, and observation cars to experience rail travel as it was in the mid-20th century, which includes a full-course meal.
They also offer "Twilight On The Rails" where guests can enjoy an evening train ride in the summer, listen to music from "Blues Maneuver," and bring a picnic dinner.
Recent Articles
-
New York Central Railroad: Map, History, & The Water Level Route
Aug 11, 26 08:35 PM
The New York Central, known as the "Water Level Route," was pieced together by Cornelius Vanderbilt and battled rival Pennsylvania for generations. -
Alco C430 (Century 430): Specs, Production Roster & History
Aug 11, 26 05:55 PM
The C430 sold very poorly for the builder. Read about who purchased them and those that remain preserved today. -
American Orient Express: History, Tours, Cost & Equipment
Aug 11, 26 03:43 PM
The American Orient Express was an ultra-luxurious private passenger train that operated from 1994 until 2008 in conjunction with Amtrak. It featured different routes for maximum scenic views; unfortu… -
Baldwin DS-4-4-1000 Switchers: Specs, Production Roster & History
Aug 11, 26 03:10 PM
The DS-4-4-1000 was one of the Baldwin's most successful diesel models it every produced, replacing the earlier VO-1000 in 1946. -
B&O Color Position Light (CPL) Signals: History, How They Work, Legacy
Aug 11, 26 02:48 PM
The CPL was Baltimore & Ohio's custom designed trackside signals used throughout its network. Today, few of remain under CSX. -
Gandy Dancer: The Track Maintenance Worker
Aug 11, 26 02:33 PM
The gandy dancer was a slang term used to describe section gangs, railroad men who performed the physical task of the tracks maintained. -
North Carolina -- Dinner Train -- Rides At Spencer
Aug 11, 26 01:39 PM
Tucked into the Piedmont town of Spencer, the North Carolina Transportation Museum is the kind of place that feels less like a typical museum and more like a living rail yard that never quite stopped… -
New York -- Dinner Train -- Rides In The Adirondacks
Aug 11, 26 01:30 PM
Operating over a restored segment of the former New York Central’s Adirondack Division, the Adirondack Railroad has steadily rebuilt both track and public interest in passenger rail across the region. -
Wellington Avalanche (1910): Great Northern Disaster at Stevens Pass
Aug 11, 26 01:15 PM
The Wellington Avalanche was the deadliest such disasters in the U.S. and one of the worst railroad accidents of all time resulting in 96 deaths in 1910. -
Wisconsin Dinner Train Rides In North Freedom
Aug 11, 26 01:12 PM
Featured here is a practical guide to Mid-Continent’s dining train concept—what the experience is like, the kinds of menus the museum has offered, and what to expect when you book. -
New Hampshire Dinner Train Rides At North Conway
Aug 11, 26 01:07 PM
Tucked into the heart of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of New England’s most beloved heritage railways. -
Ashtabula Bridge Disaster (1876): The Pacific Express & Truss Collapse
Aug 11, 26 01:05 PM
On the night of Friday, December 29, 1876, in a howling Lake Erie blizzard, the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway’s westbound Pacific Express approached the iron bridge over the Ashtabula River… -
Pole Lines In Railroading: Emergence, Purpose, Decline
Aug 11, 26 12:17 PM
Pole lines were once a common sight along railroad rights-of-way serving a multitude of functions, from carrying telephone lines to signaling code. -
The Angola Horror: The 1867 Train Wreck That Shocked the Nation
Aug 11, 26 11:58 AM
The "Angola Horror" was a horrific train accident along the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern that occurred in 1867 when a passenger car derailed at a bridge in Angola, New York and killed 49 passengers. -
Kentucky -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 11, 26 11:49 AM
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. -
Texas -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 11, 26 11:16 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New Mexico -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 11, 26 11:10 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Ohio -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 11, 26 10:56 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
Aug 11, 26 10:43 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Famous Railroad Landmarks in the United States
Aug 11, 26 12:45 AM
If you have ever wondered about some of the most well known railroad landmarks around the country you can read about them here. -
Diesel Locomotives Of The 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, and Today
Aug 11, 26 12:35 AM
Read about the history of diesel locomotives, how they function and operate, and the dozens of different models built by the five major manufacturers. -
Heber Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 11, 26 12:22 AM
The Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah markets year-round scenic products with a clear seasonal split: the Lakeside Limited is the fall/winter reservoir-side scenic, while the Deer Creek Expres… -
Black Hills Central 1880 Train Fall Foliage Ride (2026)
Aug 11, 26 12:14 AM
The Black Hills Central Railroad—marketed as the 1880 Train—is the primary fall foliage rail excursion offering in South Dakota. -
New Haven’s Roger Williams Streamliner: History, Specs & Legacy
Aug 10, 26 11:07 PM
The Roger Williams, built by the Budd Company in 1956 and delivered for 1956–57 service, was a complete six-car diesel multiple unit (DMU) derived from Budd’s hugely successful Rail Diesel Car (RDC) p… -
Railroad Tycoons List (USA): Men Of The Gilded Age (1800s)
Aug 10, 26 05:54 PM
Railroad tycoons, moguls, and barons were titans of 19th and early 20th century American commerce who laid the foundation of the modern industry we know today. -
Fallen Flags: The Classic American Railroad
Aug 10, 26 04:42 PM
Featured here are detailed histories of more than 100 classic railroads, or "fallen flags," from the mighty Pennsylvania Railroad to the small Monon. -
Railroad History (USA): Facts, Timeline, Definition
Aug 10, 26 04:18 PM
Interested in learning much more about out nation's rail history as well who invented the iron horse and when? Find it all here. -
Steam Locomotives (USA): Invention, History, Types
Aug 10, 26 04:08 PM
The classic iron horse, steam locomotives are legendary machines that still hold awe over the general public today. -
Streamliners (Trains): History, Timetables, Schedules
Aug 10, 26 03:45 PM
Read about many of the most well known streamliners here and why the period of the 1930s to 1960s is often considered the "Silver Age" of rail travel. -
Michigan -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 01:35 PM
While the term 'wild west' often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history. -
Wisconsin -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 01:11 PM
Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides. -
Florida -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 01:00 PM
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. -
New York -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 12:16 PM
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… -
Florida Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Aug 10, 26 12:02 PM
A Florida train rides guide, including all known railroad museums to visit within the state. Learn more about them here. -
Michigan Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Aug 10, 26 11:53 AM
There is no better way to experience the Great Lakes State's countryside than on the railroad. Michigan train rides offer visitors much to experience. -
Ohio Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Aug 10, 26 11:05 AM
Most of the Ohio train rides available to the public are small in nature. However, the state is home to the very popular Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Byesville Scenic, and Hocking Valley Scenic. -
New York Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Aug 10, 26 11:03 AM
New York scenic train rides offer about everything you can imagine from steam locomotives to long dinner train rides. -
California -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 10:40 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Vermont -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 10, 26 09:57 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Short Line Railroads (Class 3): List, Revenue, Definition
Aug 10, 26 09:02 AM
A close-up look at several Class III railroads, or "short lines." These systems are in vastly greater numbers today as Class Is continue to shed trackage. -
Class 2 "Regional" Railroads: Definition, List, Statistics
Aug 10, 26 12:21 AM
Class II railroads, also referred to as "regionals," are the second-largest such companies within the industry. The information here covers most of these lines. -
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC): History, Network, Overview
Aug 10, 26 12:00 AM
The Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Railway is a new Class I carrier in 2021 resulting from the Canadian Pacific/Kansas City Southern merger. Learn more here. -
Class 1 Railroads (USA): Revenue, Statistics, Overview
Aug 09, 26 10:57 PM
In railroad jargon, Class 1 refers to the largest companies in the industry and all six in North America are highlighted here. -
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 09, 26 03:02 PM
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad in Cañon City, Colorado is a year-round scenic dining railroad whose fall value is the canyon itself: roughly a two-hour out-and-back through the Royal Gorge with granit… -
Huckleberry Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 09, 26 02:35 PM
The Huckleberry Railroad at Crossroads Village (Genesee County Parks, near Flint, Michigan) is a family autumn destination: three-foot-gauge steam (when scheduled) looping wooded Genesee County countr… -
French Lick Scenic Railway Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 09, 26 02:17 PM
The French Lick Scenic Railway in French Lick, Indiana is the southern Indiana foliage train to watch: scenic excursions of about 90 minutes through hills and forests, departing the historic 1907 lime… -
California -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:56 AM
While the Niles Canyon Railway is known for family-friendly weekend excursions and seasonal classics, one of its most popular grown-up offerings is Beer on the Rails. -
New Jersey -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:53 AM
On select dates, the Woodstown Central Railroad pairs its scenery with one of South Jersey’s most enjoyable grown-up itineraries: the Brew to Brew Train. -
Georgia -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:52 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
North Carolina -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:31 AM
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.
