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Ohio Whiskey Train Rides

Published: July 8, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Ohio, with its rich history and scenic landscapes, offers an unusual yet delightful experience for spirit enthusiasts and travel aficionados alike: whiskey train rides. These unique excursions combine the romance of rail travel with the allure of fine whiskey tasting, creating an unforgettable journey through the heart of Buckeye State.

A Historical Context

The history of whiskey and trains in Ohio is intertwined, tracing back to the early 1800s. Ohio played a significant role in the American whiskey industry, particularly during the 19th century.

The state was a key player in both the production and distribution of whiskey, thanks in part to its fertile lands and an extensive network of railroads. These railways facilitated the movement of goods across the state and beyond, propelling Ohio to the forefront of spirits production.

It's within this historical context that modern-day whiskey train rides operate, offering a nod to the past while providing a contemporary experience for enthusiasts. These excursions are more than just a train ride; they are a celebration of Ohio's rich heritage in whiskey making, rail transportation, and the communities that thrived along the rail lines.

The Experience: What to Expect

Whiskey train rides typically offer a blend of scenic rail travel, curated whiskey tastings, and cultural storytelling. Journeys often last a few hours, giving passengers ample time to enjoy the landscape and the spirits.

Passengers board a vintage train, meticulously restored to its former glory, which serves as a fitting backdrop for the experience. The charm of the period interiors, complete with wooden paneling and plush seating, transport riders to a bygone era of luxury rail travel.

Each ride is often complemented by guided tastings, showcasing a selection of local and regional whiskeys. Knowledgeable guides, often master distillers or whiskey connoisseurs, lead the tastings, sharing insights into the distillation process, flavor profiles, and the history of the spirits sampled. This engagement adds depth to the experience, transforming it into an educational adventure as well as a sensory one.

The Routes: Scenic Ohio

There is currently only one location in Ohio offering a whiskey themed train ride, the Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad.  The railroad hosts rides primarily between Lebanon and Mason and operates historic passenger cars, allowing visitors to experience a slice of history with themed rides such as holiday excursions and family-friendly events.

The railroad hosts their "Bourbon Train" in late October with each ticket including "...retail sized, single serving bottles and a light pairing of meat/mixed nuts."

Practical Information and Tips

For those interested in experiencing a whiskey train ride in Ohio, there are a few practical considerations. Reservations are typically required as these excursions can be popular, particularly during peak seasons such as fall when the foliage offers a stunning backdrop.

Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably but may want to consider layers, as train temperatures can vary. In addition, while tastings are typically included in the cost of the ticket, there may be opportunities to purchase bottles from featured distilleries to take home, so carrying a small tote or bag might be beneficial.

Overall, these rides are accessible to all levels of whiskey enthusiasts—from novices curious to learn more, to seasoned aficionados eager to expand their palates. The combination of luxury travel, educational insight, and world-class spirits makes for a delightful experience that is uniquely Ohioan.

A Celebration of Ohio’s Heritage

Whiskey tasting by train is more than just a novelty or a themed event; it is a celebration of the state’s rich history and its enduring love affair with whiskey and trains. By joining one of these excursions, travelers participate in a living history lesson, filled with the flavors, sights, and stories that make Ohio a remarkable place for whiskey lovers.

Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor eager to dive into Ohio’s whiskey culture, these train rides offer an exciting and delicious way to travel through time while enjoying the beauty and bounty of the Buckeye State.