The Bluegrass State is known for its rolling hills of silver, pretty forests of hardwood trees, and historical sites from times before. One of the best ways to take in this scenery is with an excursion aboard a dinner train in Kentucky, and My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown is the perfect outing—especially if you’re in the area for a romantic getaway. From lunchtime expeditions and bourbon-themed dinners to special murder mystery tours and holiday specials, these are some of the best offerings for a memorable meal and tour of the area.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train had its first run in 1988 along the 20-mile stretch through the countryside. The Budd Company constructed the two steel-skirted train cars in the late 1940s and the R. J. Corman Railroad Company refurbished them into the beautiful dining cars you’ll experience today, pulled by F-unit locomotives. All of this comes together for a romantic ride in the countryside!
Before you book your dinner train in Kentucky reservation, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our historic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast happens to be located within walking distance of the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train depot. We offer elegant guest suites, complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning, and a host of amenities and perks that you won’t find at other lodging options in Bardstown. Head over to our availability calendar and book your room today!
Enjoy a Ride on the Best Dinner Train in Kentucky
The story began in 1860 when The Bardstown and Louisville Railroad constructed the 29-mile line. The Bardstown station, also completed in 1860, was the freight and passenger depot. As Kentucky’s last remaining “dry-laid” limestone depot, you’ll find this location listed on the “National Register of Historic Places.”
Extensively refurbished 1940s, shiny steel-skirted cars are the stars of the railroad. Built after World War II by the Budd Company, these classic cars now include a state-of-the-art kitchen car and 54 seat day coach. During the two and half hour journeys through the scenic countryside, guests can enjoy a gourmet meal, often paired with wine or Bardstown bourbon.
Here are five options for a dinner train in Kentucky:
- Lunch Train Excursion: If you prefer a midday adventure, this two-hour train ride through the Kentucky countryside includes a gourmet three-course lunch with seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.
- Dinner Excursion: We always prefer an evening dinner train in Kentucky; it’s a much more romantic outing, especially if you catch the sunset. You’ll pass by standout sites like the Jim Beam distillery, Jesse James’ safe house, and the Jackson Hollow Trestle in the Bernheim Forest on the 32-mile trip. All while enjoying a four-course meal elegantly prepared by talented onboard chefs.
- Bourbon Excursion: For those who want to indulge in Bardstown’s signature beverage, the Bourbon Excursion offers a similar experience with a gourmet four-course meal but with the addition of an exclusive bourbon tasting led by a master distiller.
- Murder Mystery Train: Presented by Murder and Merriment, guests will solve a classic “whodunit” murder mystery performed during their dinner train in Kentucky ride. The exuberant actors will have you guessing up until the last moment, and each month has a different puzzle to unravel.
- Seasonal Offerings: Depending on the time of year you visit Bardstown, My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers seasonal events. The most popular is the Polar Express during Christmas—the two-hour ride that will get you fully into the holiday spirit.
It’s a good idea to get your dinner train in Kentucky tickets beforehand. Our welcoming and kind staff at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast are always more than happy to help make reservations for you and offer personalized recommendations during your stay.
After enjoying a meal and the stunning scenery on your dinner train in Kentucky, return to our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Your quiet, relaxing guest room is the perfect retreat with comfortable seating, cozy beds, fireplaces, and top-notch amenities. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, our lobby bar is the perfect place to finish the evening with a cocktail. Take your bourbon beverage of choice into our shared living room and relish our period furnishings.
The following day we’ll treat you to an excellent and home-cooked breakfast. Our seasonal menu offers guests hearty Southern favorites and our own culinary creations. If you want more relaxation, book a massage at our on-site spa. Our incredible therapists are masterful! For those looking for more adventure, you can’t beat heading out to the nearby Bardstown distilleries for tastings and tours—you’ll learn a lot about our charming small town’s history while sipping some of the best bourbons in Kentucky.
Lastly, we must mention our attentive, discreet, and welcoming service! You’ll know the true definition of Southern hospitality from the minute you arrive until the minute you depart. We often have the pleasure of hosting repeat guests year after year for birthdays, anniversaries, and memorable getaways. Perhaps enjoying a dinner train in Kentucky will become one of your annual traditions. Join us in Bardstown and book your room today!