Pennsylvania - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
Published: June 19, 2026
By: Adam Burns
The East Broad Top Railroad (EBT) is the kind of place that feels less like a tourist attraction and more like a living time capsule. It’s widely admired not just because it’s narrow gauge, scenic, and steam-powered, but because so much of the original railroad ecosystem is still there: the yard, the shops, the rolling stock, and the long story of a coal-hauling carrier that refused to disappear. Today, EBT’s rebirth has introduced a growing lineup of experiences, and one of the most enticing for adult visitors is the Broad Top Brews Train—a rail-and-ales evening that pairs mountain scenery with tastings, barbecue, and live music.
East Broad Top 2-8-2 #16 rounds the curve at Long Fill on its way back to Orbisonia, Pennsylvania on February 18, 2023. Jon Wright photo.A Brief History
EBT’s origins are rooted in the extraction economy of the Broad Top region. Completed in the 1870s, the railroad developed to serve iron and coal interests across a long corridor in Huntingdon County, connecting communities and mines to the outside world.
What made EBT distinct—even in a state once crowded with short lines—was its three-foot narrow gauge, a practical solution for a railroad that needed to thread valleys, work through rugged terrain, and handle the region’s freight needs economically. Over time, the line grew into a substantial system associated with the Broad Top coal fields, ultimately extending well beyond the compact “park railroad” footprint most visitors see today.
By the early-to-mid 1950s, the market realities that crushed many coal-related enterprises began catching up to EBT as well. According to the Friends of the East Broad Top, coal was the dominant revenue source late in the railroad’s life, but shifting energy markets and declining demand eroded the business case; common-carrier operations ended in 1956.
Preservation, revival, and a new chapter
EBT’s survival story is famously unusual. Unlike many heritage operations assembled from equipment gathered across multiple states, EBT remained remarkably intact on its original property. That “frozen in place” quality is a big part of why rail historians and casual visitors alike find it so compelling: you’re not just riding a train—you’re stepping into a preserved industrial landscape.
A major turning point arrived in 2020, when the EBT Foundation acquired the railroad and began an extensive restoration effort, leading to the return of regular passenger service in 2021. The Foundation, a 501(c)(3), now oversees operations and long-term preservation goals.
That restoration work isn’t just cosmetic. It’s about rebuilding a railroad—track, structures, rolling stock, and motive power—in a way that’s safe, sustainable, and historically respectful. The EBT and Friends group have also been pursuing strategic track renewals and extensions, including the wider “March to Saltillo” effort to reopen portions of the line dormant since the 1950s.
The Ride Today
Most public EBT excursions revolve around a run from Rockhill Furnace to Colgate Grove—a trip that’s intentionally unhurried, letting riders soak in the sense of place: forested slopes, pastoral pockets, and the feel of a railroad that still belongs to the landscape. The railroad describes the core scenic trip as a roughly nine-mile, one-hour roundtrip, with some days featuring diesel and many peak departures featuring their 1916 steam locomotive.
Colgate Grove, the turnaround area, isn’t just “where the train stops.” EBT has been intentionally building it into an experience hub—an outdoor destination where special-event trains can layer on music, meals, tastings, games, and seasonal programming.
The Broad Top Brews Train
The Broad Top Brews Train is EBT’s adult-focused “night out” excursion—part scenic train ride, part tasting festival, part laid-back outdoor gathering. It’s designed to feel celebratory without feeling cramped or overly formal: ride out to Colgate Grove, enjoy tastings and dinner, linger with music and lawn games, then ride back under the evening sky.
Quick details (what to expect at a glance)
According to EBT’s official event listing, Broad Top Brews includes:
- Dates: June 20th & October 3rd
- Departure: 5:30 p.m.
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Age requirement: 21+ only (no guests under 21 admitted)
- What’s included: train ride, brewery & distillery tastings, food, live music, lawn games, fire pits
- Accessibility: a wheelchair-accessible car is available (call ahead to request the lift)
- Policy notes: trains operate rain/snow/shine; no refunds (ticket value may be transferred to a credit); motive power/rolling stock can change
The experience: from the depot to the grove
Your evening begins at Rockhill Furnace, where the sights and sounds of the yard set the mood—switch stands, historic buildings, and that unmistakable “railroad” atmosphere you can’t replicate with a static museum display. Once aboard, the train rolls north through EBT’s mountain scenery toward Colgate Grove. It’s the kind of ride where open windows (or open-air seating) let you hear the rhythm of the wheels and catch the scent of the woods—especially memorable if steam is on the point.
At Colgate Grove, the vibe shifts from “scenic excursion” to “railroad social.” EBT frames this as a “Rails & Ales adventure,” centered on tastings from a rotating lineup of vendors. The listing specifically mentions Juniata Brewing Company, Shy Bear Brewing, and Hungry Run Distillery as featured participants.
Tastings + dinner: barbecue built for hungry travelers
A key reason Broad Top Brews works so well is that it’s not just sipping on an empty stomach. Dinner is part of the package, and EBT’s posted menu leans into comfort-food classics—perfect after a ride through the hills:
- Main course: grilled chicken breast and barbecue pulled pork
- Sides: mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, dinner salad, homemade rolls
- Non-alcoholic drinks: water, sweet tea, lemonade
It’s hearty, approachable, and designed to keep the evening moving—more “gather and enjoy” than “formal dining.”
Music, lawn games, and fire pits: why this isn’t just another beer train
Plenty of railroads offer a “beer tasting train,” but Broad Top Brews has a strong setting advantage: Colgate Grove is a purpose-built outdoor destination where you can actually spread out. Add live music, lawn games, and fire pits, and the event becomes a mini-festival anchored by the train ride itself.
It also pairs especially well with fall color. That October date isn’t accidental—EBT’s countryside and wooded ridgelines can be spectacular as the season turns, and the event’s structure (ride + layover + ride back) is tailor-made for a crisp autumn evening.
Seating options and pricing
EBT offers multiple ways to ride Broad Top Brews, including enclosed and open-air choices, plus a caboose option for something extra memorable. Pricing on the event page is:
- Coach (21+): $70
- Open Air (21+): $70
- Caboose (21+): $80
If you’re going with friends, the caboose can be a fun “bookend” experience—more intimate, more railroad-y, and great for photos. Open air is ideal if the weather is nice and you want that immersive sensory layer: the sounds, the breeze, and the scenery without glass between you and the landscape.
Final Thoughts
The best heritage railroads don’t just transport you from Point A to Point B—they transport you into a different era. EBT does that as well as anywhere in the country, because it’s not merely operating in a historic setting; it is the historic setting. And as its restoration continues—track extensions, shop preservation, and ongoing steam work—it’s a place where repeat visits are rewarded because something is always evolving.
Broad Top Brews fits perfectly into that story. It’s a modern special event anchored by a rare piece of American railroad history: a narrow-gauge line that once hauled coal and served remote communities, now inviting you to ride out into the Pennsylvania hills for a night of music, barbecue, and locally crafted drinks—then carry you back the way travelers would have a century ago, by rail. To learn more about the Broad Top Brews Train please click here to visit the EBT website.
Recent Articles
-
B&O Railroad Museum Rebrands
Jul 15, 26 03:23 PM
The historic B&O Railroad Museum, long celebrated as a cornerstone of American railroad heritage, announced on July 14, 2026, that it is changing its name to the National Museum of Railroad History… -
Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 15, 26 12:56 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Route overview, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding this iconic long-distance train through the northern United States. -
Washington ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:39 AM
Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington. -
Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:37 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. -
Best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Across the United States 2026
Jul 15, 26 11:04 AM
Discover the best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US for 2026. Top locations, what to expect, dates, and tips for this magical holiday experience based on the beloved story. -
Indiana ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:20 AM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Ohio ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:14 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. -
Arizona ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:06 AM
Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway. -
Michigan ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 08:49 AM
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. -
Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 14, 26 02:24 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight. Route highlights, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding one of America’s most beautiful long-distance trains. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 14, 26 01:21 PM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Indiana - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:34 PM
On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway. -
Wisconsin ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:10 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. -
Georgia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:46 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:34 AM
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. -
Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 10:05 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
Jul 14, 26 09:26 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. -
Tennessee ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:10 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
California ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:01 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… -
North Carolina ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:49 PM
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. -
Pennsylvania ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:45 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:40 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… -
Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:35 PM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Illinois ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:32 PM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:28 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
The Flying Scotsman’s American Adventure: LNER 4472’s U.S. Tour
Jul 13, 26 12:02 PM
In the fall of 1969, a gleaming British steam locomotive unlike anything most Americans had ever seen rolled into Boston and spent the next four years touring the U.S. -
Amtrak's California Zephyr – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 12, 26 01:04 PM
Explore Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of America’s most scenic long-distance train routes. Complete 2026 guide with highlights, best times to ride, what to expect, photography tips, and fall foliage… -
Alabama ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:25 PM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:22 PM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:04 PM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico ~ Murder Mystery ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:41 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:36 AM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Best Christmas and Holiday Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 12, 26 11:05 AM
Discover the best Christmas and holiday train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026, including Polar Express experiences, Santa trains, and festive scenic journeys. Plan your magical rail adventure this… -
New York ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:53 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Ohio ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:38 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
Western Pacific's 4-6-6-4 "Challengers" (M-100)
Jul 11, 26 11:29 PM
In the late 1930s, the Western Pacific stood at a crossroads. Traffic volumes were recovering from the Great Depression, and the railroad needed more powerful, faster locomotives to move longer freigh… -
Cass Scenic Railroad Fall Foliage Trips 2026 – Complete Guide
Jul 11, 26 04:28 PM
Plan your 2026 fall foliage trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad. Complete guide to the Bald Knob route, schedules, what to expect, photography tips, and why this West Virginia steam train ride is one of… -
Best Fall Foliage Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern United States 2026
Jul 11, 26 03:16 PM
Discover the best fall foliage train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From steam-powered mountain climbs in West Virginia to scenic heritage railroads across the Appalachians and beyond — plan your… -
Missouri ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:27 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:17 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
North Carolina ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:05 AM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
West Virginia ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:45 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Utah ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:42 AM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Virginia ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:12 AM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Maryland ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:02 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
U.S. Rail Traffic Surges 8.7% in Holiday Week Ending July 4, 2026
Jul 10, 26 03:39 PM
Despite the Independence Day holiday (which fell on a Saturday), U.S. freight railroads delivered an impressive performance, posting an 8.7% year-over-year increase in total traffic -
APSL Nears Acquisition Of B&O Depot In Paw Paw, WV
Jul 10, 26 11:44 AM
After decades of quiet abandonment, a dedicated preservation effort by the Allegany Preservation Society Limited (APSL) is racing to secure its future— having already raised approximately 90 percent o… -
Minnesota ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 10:05 AM
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey. -
Georgia - Murder Mystery - Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 09:32 AM
In the heart of the Peach State, a unique form of entertainment combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the charm of a historic train ride. -
Vermont ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 09:29 AM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides.
