Riding My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown, Kentucky – A Relaxing Evening on the Rails
When I retired, I wanted a short trip close to home that Cheryl and I could enjoy. We discovered the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown, Kentucky, and it sounded like the perfect adventure. With a variety of themed dinner excursions, including family-friendly options, we decided to take the classic dinner ride — a 2.5-hour journey through the Kentucky countryside.
Keep reading below for our full insights about the experience.
Booking and Checking In – Tips for a Smooth Start
We booked our dinner ride online at the official website and were advised to arrive about an hour before departure. Checking in at the station was easy — simply go to the desk to collect your tickets.
While waiting, you can explore the gift shop and bar, two convenient areas to relax before boarding. Each ticket also includes a mile-marker guide of sights along the track, though there isn’t a guided narration as you pass them.
Boarding the Train – Accessibility and Insider Tips
Boarding was straightforward, with staff assisting passengers with mobility needs. A tip we found helpful: request seating in the last dinner car if you want to be wheeled or walk straight onto the train from the station without navigating hallways or steps.
Each car also has bathrooms available, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the ride.
Inside the Dinner Car – Comfort and Scenery
Walking into the dinner car, we were greeted with our table fully set with appetizers. The train begins moving slowly from the station, switching tracks to align with the engine before the ride begins in earnest.
You’re free to move around in the car or step out onto platforms at either end — we alternated between sitting and enjoying the scenery from the open-air decks. It truly felt like being a kid again!
The Meal – Appetizers, Main Course, and Dessert
About 40 minutes into the ride, the main course is served. Cheryl and I both chose prime rib, which was surprisingly large and cooked perfectly.
The lady that was our server was so nice and took a picture of us. Those ladies did a fantastic job for the whole ride. Once again you will have about 30 to 40 minutes to try and eat all of the main course. They will box up what you have left over so that you can take it with you. Good thing that the room we were staying in had a refrigerator and microwave!
By the time that you have eaten most of the main course there is time to sit back and relax for the return trip to the station. I was out on the platform enjoying myself. Our grandson loves trains and I wanted to make sure he got to see the engine and all the sounds. I had to play all the raw videos many times for him when we got home.
(To the two couples that was sitting at the table across from us, we wish that we had exchanged with you the picture you took of the reflections in your window showing all our drink glasses. We would love to have a copy of it. Get hold of us if this was you.)
Meals are portioned generously, and any leftovers are boxed for convenience — helpful if you’re staying nearby with a refrigerator and microwave. Dessert comes toward the end of the ride, including Cheryl’s Chocolate Choo Choo, complete with ice cream.
Relaxing on the Rails – Scenic Views and Quiet Time
Our ride lasted closer to three hours in total, including time to enjoy the return trip back to the station. The peaceful ride allowed for conversation, taking in the scenery, and even capturing video footage of the platform and engine sounds for our grandson — a fun way to relive the experience later.
We left the train directly into the gift shop, making boarding and disembarking smooth and stress-free.
Why the Dinner Train Is Worth Experiencing
The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers more than just dinner — it’s an experience. From the scenic ride through the Kentucky countryside to the historic feel of the train and attentive service, it’s a relaxing, memorable way to enjoy Bardstown.
If you ever get the chance, this dinner train should be on your Kentucky travel list.
Watch Our Dinner Train Experience
Check out our full video of the dinner train ride on our YouTube channel to see the scenery, train platforms, and our reactions to the meal.
You can check out their website at
and see what they have to offer.
Other places we have Explored in Bardstown Kentucky
Exploring Bardstown, Kentucky – Bourbon, History, and Small-Town Charm
Old Bardstown Village in Bardstown Kentucky
Have You Ridden the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train?
Have you ever experienced a dinner train before?
What was your favorite part — the food, the scenery, or just riding along the tracks?
Drop a comment below and let us know. We love hearing about your adventures on the rails and discovering new hidden gems together!
