Dinner Train Dining with Cafe Lafayette in Woodstock, NH
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No particular physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Overview
Ride the rails through New Hampshire’s wild landscapes aboard the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train. Combining scenic views with outstanding cuisine, it’s a unique way to experience the White Mountains region.
Details
Woodstock, New Hampshire, offers visitors an experience where journey and flavor carve out an extraordinary adventure. The Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train brings an exceptional layer to this classic New England town's outdoor scene—not by walking or paddling, but from the comfort of vintage railcars rolling through the heart of the White Mountains region. Riding this train is less about speed or exertion, and more about savoring the passage through one of the country's most scenic rail corridors while enjoying a full-service meal crafted with local ingredients.
The route winds along the Pemigewasset River, bordered by steep granite ledges and dense evergreens that reflect the seasons dramatically. Passengers witness sparkling river currents and rugged cliffs while dining inside elegantly restored Pullman cars, which echo a time when train travel blended comfort and refinement. The shifting landscapes tell New Hampshire’s geological story—ancient glacial sculpting apparent in the sheer rock faces and river bends freighted with history.
Besides the natural elements, the train’s schedule and service conjure a unique connection to the region’s heritage of railroading, once vital for lumber and commerce. The experience doubles as a moving restaurant, pairing the outdoor ambiance with impeccable cuisine designed to elevate the journey. This makes it a standout attraction for travelers seeking active ways to engage the outdoors with a touch of leisure that honors the area’s cultural roots.
Though not a physically demanding adventure, this trip complements nearby hiking and mountain biking opportunities in the White Mountains by offering a relaxing after- or pre-adventure dining alternative. For anyone drawn to the outdoors but seeking a fresh approach to taking in the landscape, the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train delivers a taste of New Hampshire’s wild heart in style. It’s an invitation to slow down and absorb the scenery through another lens—windows framed by history, wilderness, and gourmet comfort.
Adventure Tips
Reserve Early
This popular dining experience can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays—book your seat in advance to secure a spot.
Arrive Early
Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Dress for Comfort
Though seated indoors, comfortable layers are recommended as trains can vary in temperature.
Allergy Notifications
Inform the staff ahead of time if you have dietary restrictions or allergies for a tailored dining experience.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet river viewpoints along the Pemigewasset near West Woodstock
- Small railroad museum at the station displaying local rail history
Wildlife
- River otters active near the water’s edge
- Bald eagles nesting in tall pines
History
The rail line dates back to the late 19th century and played a key role in transporting timber and passengers through the rugged White Mountains.
Conservation
The train operates with a focus on sustainability by supporting local farms and minimizing environmental impact alongside the protected river corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Riverside bends visible from coach windows
- Approaching covered bridges
- Rock ledges framing the river
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
To adjust to varying temperatures in the train and outside during arrival or departure.
Camera
For capturing sweeping river views and seasonal changes along the route.
Comfortable Shoes
Needed for boarding and walking around the station area.
Allergy Medication
Helpful if you have dietary sensitivities to carry along despite advance notifications.