Vermont Railway: Preserving The Former Rutland
Published: July 19, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The Vermont Railway is one of the most iconic railroads in the United States, carving out a significant history since its inception.
Today, the successful Class II carrier operates more than 400 miles of track throughout its home state as well as in nearby New Hampshire..
This article will provide an expansive look at the Vermont Railway, covering its historical milestones and present-day operations.
We will delve into the infrastructure, total route mileage, freight traffic, and public train excursions that define its relevance today.
Vermont Railway SD70M-2 #431 leads train #264 around a curve at East Claredon, Vermont on September 8, 2018. Doug Kroll photo.Introduction
The Vermont Railway is a Class III railroad operating within the state of Vermont. Like other regional railroads, its primary focus is freight, although it also offers nostalgic public train excursions beloved by tourists and rail enthusiasts.
Operated by Vermont Rail System (VRS), the Vermont Railway is a crucial part of freight transportation in the northeastern United States.
History
Early Beginnings
The Vermont Railway was established in 1964 after the Rutland Railway went bankrupt and ceased operations. The state of Vermont intervened, purchasing the 120-mile segment of track from Burlington to North Bennington.
This purchase led to the formation of the Vermont Railway on January 6, 1964. Its establishment marked the first time in the United States that a state owned and operated a railroad, setting a precedent for public-sector involvement in rail transport.
Rutland Railroad
The Rutland Railroad, once a prominent rail line in the northeastern United States, boasts a complex and storied history dating back to the 19th century.
Formed from the merger of several smaller railroads, the Rutland Railroad was officially chartered in 1843.
Its primary route extended from Chatham, New York, through Vermont, and into Bellows Falls, Vermont, providing a critical link between the New York Central Railroad and the Canadian Pacific Railway.
The initial years saw rapid expansion and the establishment of numerous branch lines, including routes to Burlington, Vermont, which became the northern terminal.
The railroad played a significant role in supporting the marble, dairy, and timber industries, transporting raw materials and finished goods across the region.
Like many railroads of the era, the Rutland faced challenges related to competition, labor disputes, and the economic fluctuations brought about by the Great Depression.
Labor strikes in the early 20th century notably impacted operations, leading to temporary shutdowns and financial instability. Despite efforts to modernize and streamline operations, these challenges culminated in the railroad's first bankruptcy in 1938.
Post-World War II, efforts to revive the Rutland included dieselization and attempts to enhance passenger services. However, competition from road transport and ongoing labor issues continued to plague the railroad.
A significant labor strike in 1961 led to the cessation of operations, and the company filed for bankruptcy once again.
In 1963, the assets of the defunct railroad were sold off. The state of Vermont purchased a portion of the tracks, leading to the creation of the Vermont Railway in 1964, thus preserving a part of the Rutland’s legacy.
Today, the history of the Rutland Railroad is remembered for its crucial role in regional development and its enduring impact on rail transportation in Vermont and beyond.
Development and Expansion
During its formative years, the Vermont Railway (VTR) prioritized substantial investment in upgrading the legacy locomotives and rolling stock inherited from the Rutland Railroad. The company procured a combination of new and used locomotives and also leased several hundred freight cars to enhance its operational capacity.
The railway continued its expansion by venturing into the intermodal business in 1965. In 1972, it acquired the Clarendon and Pittsford, facilitating access to a limestone plant near Florence, Vermont. The C&P name was retained as a separate legal entity, managing the newly acquired trackage.
The company achieved significant financial milestones throughout the '70s by grossing over $2 million in revenue for the first time. Net earnings, approximately $20,000 annually, were reinvested into further improvements for the railroad.
By 1982, the railroad had repaid the State of Vermont for the trackage it had acquired in 1964, enabling the railway's initial operations.
The following year, VTR acquired 23.7 miles of track between Rutland, Vermont, and Whitehall, New York, from the Delaware and Hudson. This trackage, which was initially in poor condition with speed restrictions as low as 6 mph, underwent extensive rehabilitation, including upgrades to the roadbed, track, and ties.
Since the track was brought up to higher standards, Whitehall has emerged as a major interchange point. Additionally, since 1996, Amtrak's Ethan Allen Express has been operating on the Rutland to Whitehall section, further integrating the railway into the regional transportation network.
In the following decades, the Vermont Railway expanded its footprint:
- **11/1972**: The acquisition of the Clarendon & Pittsford Railroad (CLP) from the Vermont Marble Company marked a significant expansion.
The CLP provides daily service to the cutting-edge limestone processing plant operated by OMYA on the mountainside above Florence, Vermont. OMYA quickly rose to prominence as the railroad’s largest shipper—a status it maintains to this day.
In August 1983, the Clarendon & Pittsford Railroad strategically extended its reach by purchasing the Delaware & Hudson line between Rutland and Whitehall, New York.
This 24-mile segment has since become indispensable for transporting fuel oil and gasoline, centered around the main interchange point in Whitehall, NY.
- **5/1997**: The Vermont Railway's acquisition of the Green Mountain Railroad (GMRC) from President and major stockholder Jerome Hebda in May, 1997 led to the creation of the Vermont Rail System (VRS).
At the time of the sale, GMRC was notably well-managed, boasting a lean, efficient workforce, a solid traffic base, and a debt-free status.
With this strategic move, Vermont Railway was able to leverage its robust maintenance-of-way policy, supported by modern equipment and skilled employees, to enhance the operational efficiency of GMRC.
This synergy fostered significant improvements in business along the line, solidifying VRS's role in regional rail transportation.
- **9/1999**: Acquired the Washington County Railroad's "Montpelier & Barre Division," formerly part of the New England Central Railroad.
- **4/2002**: Acquired the New York and Ogdensburg Railway. The (NYOG encompasses a 31.2-mile stretch of track between Norfolk and Ogdensburg, New York, and forms part of the historic footprint of the former Rutland Railroad.
Jay Wulfson harbored a longstanding ambition to acquire this pivotal section for his expanding rail network.
His vision came to fruition when NYOG was integrated into the Vermont Rail System, symbolically reuniting the surviving rails of the Rutland Railroad under a singular, dedicated operator.
This consolidation marks a significant chapter in the legacy of Northeastern rail transportation.
These acquisitions have allowed Vermont Railway to integrate multiple regional lines into a cohesive network, enhancing resource allocation and operational efficiency.
- **2003**: Acquired the Washington County Railroad's "Connecticut River Division" in 2003, which operates between White River Junction and Newport, Vermont.
- **2020**: The latest addition, this line - the New England Southern Railroad - was acquired in 2020 which operates between Tilton and Concord, New Hampshire.
Modern Era
In recent years, Vermont Railway has modernized its infrastructure, upgraded its rolling stock, and diversified its service offerings. Today, it remains a key player in Vermont's transportation sector, alongside other lines within the Vermont Rail System network.
Route Mileage and Infrastructure
Currently, the Vermont Railway encompasses approximately 400 miles of track. Its significant routes include:
- **Burlington to North Bennington**: The original 120-mile segment purchased in 1964, traversing central Vermont.
- **Rutland to Bellows Falls**: Formerly part of the Green Mountain Railroad.
- **White River Junction to Newport**: A section acquired through the Washington County Railroad.
Freight Traffic
Types
The railroad transports a variety of commodities, including:
- **Lumber and Forest Products**: One of the largest freight categories, reflecting Vermont's robust timber industry.
- **Stone and Aggregates**: Transported primarily from quarries to construction sites.
- **Agricultural Products**: Including bulk grains, fertilizers, and dairy products.
- **Fuel and Chemicals**: Including propane, ethanol, and industrial chemicals.
Vermont Railway GP9u #804 has the V"ermont Valley Flyer" excursions southbound near Sunderland, Vermont on July 11, 1998. Doug Kroll photo.Public Train Excursions
In addition to freight services, Vermont Railway offers public train excursions that provide unique and nostalgic rail experiences:
The Champlain Valley Flyer
This popular excursion takes passengers through the scenic Champlain Valley, offering picturesque views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding countryside.
Fall Foliage Tours
During the autumn months, the railway operates special fall foliage tours, allowing passengers to witness Vermont's stunning autumn colors from the comfort of vintage railcars.
Holiday Trains
Holiday-themed excursions, such as the "Polar Express," bringing festive joy to families and children, are another highlight of Vermont Railway's public offerings.
Railfan Specials
For rail enthusiasts, the Vermont Railway organizes special railfan trips, featuring historic locomotives, vintage railcars, and unique photography opportunities.
Diesel Roster
| Railroad/Subsidiary | Model | Builder | Completion Date | Serial Number(s) | Notes/Original Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont Railway 201-202 | GP38-2 | EMD | 12/1972, 10/1974 | 7265-1, 75603-1 | Acquired new |
| Clarendon & Pittsford 203 | GP38 | EMD | 11/1964 | 32664 | Maine Central 255 |
| Clarendon & Pittsford 204 | GP38-2 | EMD | 10/1973 | 73607-4 | CSX 2528; Seaboard System 528; nee-Seaboard Coast Line 528 |
| Vermont Railway 205 (2nd) | GP38 | EMD | 8/1969 | 35393 | Fort Worth & Western 2025; Chicago, Missouri & Western 2025; CR 7764; nee-Penn Central 7764 |
| Vermont Railway 208 | GP38-2 | EMD | 8/1972 | 7354-89 | ex-Locomotive Leasing Partners 2334; nee-Penn Central 8028 |
| Vermont Railway 301 | GP40 | EMD | 5/1967 | 33098 | CSX 6790; Seaboard System 6790; nee-Western Railway of Alabama 701 |
| Green Mountain Railroad 302 | GP40 | EMD | 9/1971 | 38497 | CSX 659; nee-B&O 4017 |
| Vermont Railway 303 | GP40-2 | EMD | 12/1977 | 776025-15 | HLCX 509; nee-B&M 314 |
| Green Mountain Railroad 304 | GP40 | EMD | 2/1971 | 36737 | HATX 400; CSX 6532; nee-B&O 3756 |
| Green Mountain Railroad 305 | GP40 | EMD | 5/1970 | 35907 | HATX 419; CSX 6760; Seaboard System 6760/6616; nee-Seaboard Coast Line 1606 |
| Clarendon & Pittsford 306 | GP40-2 | EMD | 12/1972 | 75654-1 | nee-Texas, Oklahoma & Eastern D-15 |
| Vermont Railway 307 | GP40-2 | EMD | 10/1984 | 847046-8 | Ex-Union Pacific 1325 < SP 7225 < nee SSW 7225 |
| Vermont Railway 308 | GP40-2 | EMD | 12/1977 | 776025-4 | ex-HATX 504; nee-B&M 303 |
| Vermont Railway 310 | GP40-2LW | GMDD | 4/1976) | A3445 | ex-HLCX 9650; nee-Canadian National 9650 |
| Vermont Railway 311 | GP40-2LW | EMD | 5/1976 | A3457 | ex-HLCX 9662; nee-Canadian National 9662. Wears special "50th Anniversary" livery. |
| Vermont Railway 312 | GP40-3 | EMD | 2/1967 | 32888 | HATX 806; nee-Rio Grande GP40 3077 |
| Vermont Railway 313 | GP40FH-2 | EMD | 8/1967 | 33242 | Ex-Saratoga & North Creek (Iowa Pacific) 4137; San Luis and Rio Grande (Iowa Pacific) 4137; Agence métropolitaine de transport 4137; New Jersey Transit 4137; nee-New York Central GP40 3078 |
| Vermont Railway 381 | GP60 | EMD | 5/1990 | 896051-1 | Sold to BNSF; ex-HLCS 7700; nee Texas-Mexican 869 |
| Green Mountain Railroad 405 | RS1 | Alco | 12/1951 | 79575 | Rutland 405 |
| Vermont Railway 431 | SD70M-2 | EMD | 12/2006 | 20056711-2 | FEC 101 |
| Vermont Railway 432 | SD70M-2 | EMD | 12/2006 | 20056711-4 | FEC 103 |
| Vermont Railway 501 | SW1500 | EMD | 9/1966 | 31900 | Lancaster & Chester 95 |
| Vermont Railway 751 | GP9 | EMD | 4/1954 | 19522 | ex-Conrail 7301; Penn Central 7301; nee-Cleveland Union Terminal/NYC 5901 |
| Vermont Railway 801 | GP18 | EMD | 12/1951 | 26655 | Toledo, Peoria & Western 600 |
| Clarendon & Pittsford 802 | GP16 | EMD | 5/1950 | 10220 | ex-CSX 1748; Seaboard System 4703; nee-Seaboard Coast Line 788 |
| Green Mountain Railroad 803 | GP9 | EMD | 12/1956 | 22564 | C&O 6181 |
| Clarendon & Pittsford 804 | GP9R | EMD | 10/1955 | EMD 21015 | ex-Green Mountain Railroad 1851; NS 2000; N&W 5000; nee-N&W 713 |
Vermont Railway GP40-2W #311 wears a special livery commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vermont Rail System on July 31, 2014. Doug Kroll photo.Conclusion
The Vermont Railway, with its rich history and vital role in today's transportation landscape, is an exemplary model of how regional railroads can adapt and thrive.
From its establishment in 1964 to its present-day operations, the railway has continually evolved to meet the needs of its customers and the communities it serves.
With strategic investments in technology, infrastructure, and sustainability, Vermont Railway is poised to continue its legacy of service and innovation for years to come.
Whether transporting essential goods, offering scenic rail excursions, or contributing to local economic prosperity, Vermont Railway remains a cornerstone of Vermont's transportation infrastructure and a significant player in the broader national rail network.
Recent Articles
-
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. -
Michigan -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:28 AM
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. -
Indiana -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:26 AM
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. -
Illinois -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:19 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:05 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? -
East Broad Top Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 09, 26 12:09 AM
The East Broad Top Railroad at Rockhill Furnace / Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is not a mass-market “leaf special” brand so much as a living industrial-history railroad whose public calendar runs deep into… -
Strasburg Rail Road Whiskey on the Rails (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:28 PM
Whiskey on the Rails is the Strasburg Rail Road’s intimate adult spirits product: a roughly 45-minute to one-hour steam ride through Lancaster County Amish Country aboard historic First Class Dining C… -
Indiana Whiskey & Bourbon Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:53 PM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine &amp;amp; Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a… -
Minnesota -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:04 PM
Among the North Shore Scenic Railroad's special events, one consistently rises to the top for adults looking for a lively night out: the Beer Tasting Train. -
New Mexico Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:52 PM
New Mexico’s high-desert rail scene has a clear spirits star: Sky Railway in Santa Fe, whose special-event calendar includes Whiskey on the Rails—a 21+ pop-up pairing Santa Fe Spirits with a round tri… -
Connecticut -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ &a… -
Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:44 AM
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad—marketed as the Duluth River Train—offers a volunteer-run, roughly two-hour narrated round trip along the St. Louis River estuary from West Duluth. -
Coopersville & Marne Railway Fall / Pumpkin Trains (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:19 AM
The Friends of the Coopersville & Marne Railway run West Michigan’s best-known autumn family train: the Pumpkin Train on October weekends, a roughly 90-minute Coopersville–Marne round trip with costum… -
Cape Cod Central Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:12 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad is southeastern Massachusetts’s main tourist-and-dining rail product: narrated scenic trains and multi-course dining trains from Hyannis, West Barnstable, and Buzzards Ba… -
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:39 AM
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone, Iowa is the Midwest’s high-bridge foliage train: Fraser excursions cross the towering Bass Point Creek High Bridge through the Des Moines River valley as h… -
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:18 AM
The Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Train Ride from its Unity, Maine venue: roughly a one-hour round trip through Waldo County woods and farmland when birch, maple… -
Pennsylvania -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:06 AM
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. -
Alabama -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:04 AM
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. -
South Dakota -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:02 AM
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. -
West Virginia -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:00 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. -
New Mexico -- Murder Mystery -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:58 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. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:55 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? -
Whitewater Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Flyer (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:27 AM
The Whitewater Valley Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Flyer each October: a five-hour weekday round trip from Connersville, Indiana to historic Metamora with a two-hour layover for shopping… -
North Shore Scenic Railroad Fall Colors Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:17 AM
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota—operated with the Lake Superior Railroad Museum from historic Duluth Union Depot—markets the Two Harbors Fall Colors Tour as its headline autumn pr… -
Leadville Railroad Fall Train Rides (2026)
Aug 07, 26 11:55 PM
The Leadville Railroad (formerly marketed as the Leadville, Colorado & Southern) runs from historic Leadville, Colorado—one of the highest incorporated cities in the U.S.—into the surrounding Rockies… -
FWRHS Acquires Nickel Plate Road Business Car No. 1
Aug 07, 26 11:48 PM
The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS) has acquired Nickel Plate Road business car No. 1, a 1929 Pullman built for the Van Sweringen brothers’ rail empire. -
Santa Fe Bicentennial SD45-2 No. 5704 To Attend America 250 Event
Aug 07, 26 11:44 PM
The Southern California Railway Museum’s restored Santa Fe Railway SD45-2 No. 5704 is eastbound for the America 250 Locomotive Celebration at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, set f… -
IRM Repaints Ingersoll-Rand 91 in 1976 Bicentennial Livery
Aug 07, 26 11:25 PM
Illinois Railway Museum Diesel Department volunteers have cosmetically restored the museum’s oldest diesel locomotive, Ingersoll-Rand No. 91, to the red, white, and blue scheme it wore for the 1976 Un… -
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 10:22 PM
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville, Ohio is the Hocking Hills region’s dedicated autumn rail product. Each year the railroad markets October Fall Foliage trains—roughly two-hour round tr… -
Delaware & Ulster Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 07:12 PM
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad (DURR) is back as a Catskills heritage operation from Arkville, New York, marketing scenic rides every Saturday through fall 2026. -
Durango & Silverton Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 03:19 PM
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is southwest Colorado’s bucket-list autumn steam (and diesel) ride: a climb from Durango through the Animas Canyon toward historic Silverton, with San Jua… -
Michigan -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:51 PM
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. -
Virginia Scenic Sip & Savor Express (2026): Wine & Cider Tasting Train
Aug 07, 26 12:42 PM
The Sip & Savor Express is the Virginia Scenic Railway’s flagship tasting product: a about three-hour guided wine or cider experience with artisan charcuterie, departing from either Louisa or Staunton… -
Virginia -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:39 PM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Utah -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:32 PM
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. -
Vermont -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:25 PM
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. -
North Carolina -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:21 PM
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. -
Western Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:56 PM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) in Cumberland, Maryland runs one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-known Murder Mystery Dinner Trains: a roughly three-hour, 21+ evening with dinner and interactiv… -
Warren County Winery Train Phillipsburg NJ (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:37 PM
The Warren County Winery Train, operated by Delaware River Railroad Excursions from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, is a high-frequency wine tasting product. -
River Fox Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:19 PM
The River Fox Train (Sacramento RiverTrain operations) in West Sacramento, California runs a Murder Mystery Dinner Train for ages 21+: dinner and dessert plus interactive theater as characters scheme… -
Monticello Railway Museum Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 01:33 PM
The Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, Illinois hosts the state’s main Murder Mystery Dinner Train: an approximately two-hour evening with a three-course meal prepared by Michaels’ Catering of C… -
Cumbres & Toltec Fall Colors Train Ride (2026): Aspens, Pass & Tips
Aug 06, 26 12:45 PM
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad straddles the Colorado–New Mexico line between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado—a steam-powered narrow-gauge climb over Cumbres Pass through aspen forests… -
LM&M Murder Mystery Train Lebanon OH (2026)
Aug 06, 26 12:04 PM
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio offers a Murder Mystery Train built for Cincinnati/Dayton day-trippers: about three hours total, 21+, with interactive theater from The Murder… -
Heber Valley Wine & Cheese Tasting Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:58 AM
The Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah markets a Wine & Cheese Tasting Train as its signature adult tasting product: a roughly 90-minute evening ride with a guided five-course wine tasting and… -
Backcountry Wine Train, Campo CA (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:13 AM
The Backcountry Wine Train is the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum’s adults-oriented wine tasting excursion from the Campo Railroad Museum in San Diego County’s East County high desert. -
Rhode Island -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 10:19 AM
It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport &amp;amp; Narragansett Bay Railroad. -
Maryland -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 09:46 AM
You can enjoy whiskey tasting by train at just one location in Maryland, the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad based in Cumberland.
