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Step aboard vintage railcars for a sunset dinner cruise along the Fox River in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin. This rare dinner train event offers fine dining paired with river views and rich railroad history.
Step aboard vintage railcars for a sunset dinner cruise along the Fox River in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin. This rare dinner train event offers fine dining paired with river views and rich railroad history.
Book with National Railroad Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by National Railroad Museum · Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin
The National Railroad Museum in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, offers a one-of-a-kind evening journey aboard vintage dinner trains that marries history, fine dining, and scenic river views. On September 11th and 18th, guests can step back into the 1920s and 1930s aboard iconic rail cars — the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy #300 Silver Spirit and the Atlantic Coast Line Dothan Dining Car — transformed into intimate dining venues. This limited event showcases a carefully crafted five-course meal from local caterers while the train slowly makes its way around the track, providing spectacular vistas of the Fox River and Dutchman Creek as the sun sets.
The experience begins on the platform with a storytelling session by Justin Lambrecht, the museum’s Director of Education, who provides historic context on the golden age of dinner trains. Then, as the train glides over the high bridge above the river, guests savor dishes from Iron Duck Restaurant on September 11th and Plae Bistro on September 18th. Each menu highlights local flavors with a seasonal touch, creating a culinary journey matched only by the immersive setting. Note that the dining on September 18th cannot accommodate nut or dairy allergies.
Situated in the heart of northeastern Wisconsin, the National Railroad Museum preserves the legacy of America’s railway era amid the lush riverine landscape shaped by the Fox River’s winding course and the mixed hardwood forests that define this part of Ashwaubenon. The museum’s rich collection and dedication to education make it a cultural cornerstone, supporting at-risk youth through programs funded by events like the Dinner Train.
This rare pairing of outdoor natural beauty with historic railroading and gourmet dining offers visitors a memorable way to connect with the region’s heritage and support meaningful educational initiatives. For anyone seeking an evening that combines slow travel, stunning scenery, and exceptional cuisine, the Dinner Train at the National Railroad Museum is a standout destination worth booking well in advance.
easy.
3–4 hours.
No significant physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels.
Tickets must be purchased in tables of four to create a complete dining experience.
The event takes place rain or shine, and all ticket sales are final with no refunds.
Accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the National Railroad Museum prior to booking.
Menus vary by date; the September 18th meal cannot accommodate nut or dairy allergies, so plan accordingly.
Guests begin gathering at 6:00 p.m. with the event concluding approximately 3–4 hours later.
Alcohol service policies vary; check with the museum when booking for details.
The National Railroad Museum, established in 1956, preserves vintage railcars and celebrates Wisconsin’s rich railway heritage.
The museum actively supports environmental education alongside cultural preservation, emphasizing sustainable stewardship of the river valley.
The National Railroad Museum in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, offers visitors a hands-on introduction to railroading through exhibits, train rides, educational programs, and seasonal events. Located near the Fox River, the Museum provides daily self-guided tours and **daily train rides from May to September**, enabling guests to experience historic equipment and learn railroading basics. Camp offerings include age-specific programs: Summer Railroad Camp for Locomotive Firemen (ages 5–7), Advanced Engineers (ages 12–18), and a Girls STEM Leadership camp that combines science, sustainability, and a hands-on project with a certificate of achievement. Programming extends to community and specialty events such as The Great Pumpkin Train with pumpkin-picking, live entertainment, crafts, and family activities, and seasonal celebrations including the Festival of Trees and Holidays On The Rails. Educational opportunities include a six-part Railroading Merit Badge Workshop open to Scouts and adult leaders, a History After Dark lecture series on locomotive and Army rail operations, and an exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour exploring the archives and restoration shop. The Museum hosts unique fundraisers and dining events like the Dinner Train—scheduled for September 11 and 18—featuring multi-course meals aboard vintage trains while supporting educational programs. Registration and ticketing are available for camps, workshops, special events, and daily admission. The National Railroad Museum emphasizes accessible railroading education and memorable family experiences in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, helping visitors of all ages connect with the technology, safety, and stories of American rail history. On-site staff and volunteers support learning with demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and guided activities for school groups and families.
Book with National Railroad Museum