Have you ever had the chance to take part in a dinner train ride? The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway (HVSR) has started their evening meals and the first train left the depot completely full.
If you, or someone you know, is a train lover, this is a memorable opportunity you’ll want to experience.
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Here’s what to expect:
Because the dinner train typically sells out, you’ll want to order your tickets online here at Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. There is ample parking at the depot. Arriving 20-30 minutes early to pick up your tickets at Will Call will give you a chance to walk around and check out the historic train cars that are parked nearby, read about the history of the Nelsonville train station, and use the restroom. This is also the perfect time to get pictures because it will be dark when you return.
Anticipating the Train’s Arrival
You can feel the excitement in the air as the engine appears down the track. The train will arrive from the south, so you’ll want to be watching for it.
Diners will be assigned a table on one of three dining cars. Typically, there are two guests for each table, but you can request to sit as a party of three or four.
Drink orders are taken by the wait staff once everyone is seated. Water and soda come with your meal. Beer, wine, and mixed drinks are extra. A full drink menu can be found at each table.
Dinner Train Views
While you are riding, you’ll have a chance to see the countryside as well as a historical brick making kiln, an Ohio canal lock remains, and a tiny round house. The house is a registered historical landmark.
Each dining car is unique in its own style and age. A flyer is found at each table giving a little history of the car you’re riding in for the evening. Our car for the night was a 1950s Amtrak Heritage Diner, originally the Southern Pacific 10213.
The wait staff does an excellent job of serving the courses in a nicely timed fashion. The entire ride takes approximately three hours. The train is moving for the majority of the time, but it does come to a standstill for small portions of the evening.
Dinner Train Courses
Each dinner train ride has a seasonal menu. I’m going to describe the presentation we had, so you can have an idea of the array of flavors that are served.
First Course: Southern Maple Corn Spoon Bread with Grilled Shrimp.
Salad Course: Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Dinner Course: Slow Roasted Prime Rib of Beef, Au Jus OR BBQ Glazed Salmon Fillet
Dessert: Chocolate Decadence
Alcoholic beverages, as well as the service gratuity, are paid for at the end of the train ride. Cash or cards are accepted.
A Table for Two, Three or Four
Do you picture yourself sitting at the table with a spouse or with a group of friends? Are you all dressed up fancy or opting for a casual ride through the country? Whichever choice you opt for, you’ll be met by the friendliest staff, delicious food, loads of history, and memories to last a lifetime.
If you are SUPER lucky, you’ll meet knew friends that will touch your heart, hear stories that will make you both laugh and cry, and taste new foods that will make your palette smile.
Additional Train Rides
HVSR has a multitude of train rides scheduled for the upcoming months. Be sure to call or order your tickets online ahead of time as seating is limited.
- Diesel-powerered historic trains
- Steam-powered trains
- Halloween Train
- Starbrick BBQ Train
- Santa Train
- Easter Bunny Train
