Scenic Train Lunches Through the Des Moines River Valley
Dine aboard restored 1950s Union Pacific streamliner cars and cross iconic Bass Point Creek and Des Moines River bridges in Boone, Iowa.
Featured Rail Excursions
Historic train experiences for scenic sightseeing, dining, and family outings.
About Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad operates historic passenger train excursions from Boone, Iowa, along the Des Moines River Valley. The railroad preserves and operates vintage rail equipment, including restored 1950s Union Pacific streamliner cars used on specialty dining trips. Typical offerings include scenic excursions that cross notable structures such as the Bass Point Creek High Bridge and the Des Moines River Bridge, providing passengers panoramic views of river valleys and prairie landscapes.
The organization focuses on heritage rail experiences, seasonal events, and themed rides that combine regional history with leisure travel. Onboard service varies by trip and can include full-service dining on dedicated lunch trains, narrated excursions, and family-friendly activities. The railroad's operations emphasize safety and preservation; equipment and track professionals maintain rolling stock and infrastructure to meet applicable standards for passenger rail excursions.
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad partners with local tourism entities and historic preservation groups to highlight the cultural and natural attractions of central Iowa. The railroad runs scheduled departures from a central station in Boone and offers advance ticketing for select specialty trains. Accessibility and trip details are provided for each offering so visitors can plan accordingly.
Visitors to Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad experience a combination of historic rail travel, curated dining on some runs, and scenic crossings of landmark bridges. As a long-running regional attraction, the railroad contributes to local tourism and provides an accessible way to explore the Des Moines River Valley by rail. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for specialty dining trains.
Reserve a Seat on the Wolf Lunch Train
Secure a window seat on the vintage streamliner for a scenic lunch across Bass Point Creek High Bridge and the Des Moines River Bridge — book advance tickets for specialty dining trains.