Experience Timeless Elegance Aboard the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train
Nestled in the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky, a city renowned for its rich history and Southern charm, lies an experience that transcends a typical dining outing: the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. Located precisely at 602 N 3rd St, this unique establishment offers patrons a journey back in time, combining the romance of vintage rail travel with the pleasure of fine dining. It is more than just a meal; it is an immersive narrative set against the picturesque backdrop of the Kentucky countryside. The train itself is a meticulously preserved piece of American railway history, offering an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia and sophistication that modern restaurants often strive, but rarely achieve, to replicate.
For generations, rail travel symbolized adventure, luxury, and connection. The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train meticulously recreates this golden age. As the wheels begin to turn and the rhythmic clatter accompanies your conversation, guests are invited to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the scenery rolling by. This unique setting transforms a simple dinner into a memorable occasion, whether you are celebrating a special anniversary, hosting a corporate event, or simply seeking a distinctive culinary adventure away from the everyday hustle. The commitment to authenticity, from the décor to the service style, ensures that every passenger feels like a valued guest on a grand tour.
The experience is carefully curated to engage all the senses. While the visual feast of the passing landscape is undeniable, the culinary offerings are designed to complement the journey’s elegance. The chefs focus on delivering high-quality, regionally inspired cuisine, ensuring that the food served aboard is as memorable as the ride itself. This dedication to a holistic, high-quality experience is what sets the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train apart as a premier destination in Bardstown and indeed, the wider Kentucky region.
Key Highlights of the Dinner Train Experience
The appeal of the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train stems from several distinct features that combine to create an unparalleled outing. These elements work in harmony to deliver consistent quality and memorable moments for every traveler.
Authentic Vintage Railcars: The core of the experience lies in the rolling stock itself. Passengers dine within beautifully restored, classic railway cars. These cars feature period-appropriate interiors, comfortable seating arrangements, and large windows designed to maximize the view. The ambiance created by the historic setting is inherently romantic and deeply engaging, providing a tangible link to the past.
Scenic Kentucky Routes: The journey takes diners through some of the most beautiful and historically significant landscapes Kentucky has to offer. While the specific routes may vary, the train consistently showcases rolling hills, pastoral farmland, and glimpses into the quiet, charming life of rural Kentucky communities. This moving panorama serves as the perfect, ever-changing backdrop to the meal.
Exceptional Culinary Presentation: Dining on the train is treated as a formal event. The menu selections often reflect a commitment to Southern culinary traditions, prepared with modern techniques and presented with finesse. The service staff is trained to provide attentive, yet unobtrusive, service, mirroring the high standards expected in classic dining establishments.
A Unique Social Setting: The confined yet elegant space of the dining car fosters a unique sense of camaraderie and shared experience among passengers. It encourages conversation and allows guests to fully disconnect from digital distractions, focusing instead on the immediate company and the journey unfolding outside the window.
More Than Just a Meal: A Journey into Heritage
The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train, situated at its historic Bardstown depot, serves as a vital cultural anchor. It successfully bridges the gap between historical preservation and contemporary entertainment. It offers a sophisticated alternative to standard dining, appealing to history enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone seeking a truly unique date night or family celebration venue.
The commitment to maintaining the integrity of the railway experience while delivering modern standards of hospitality is evident in every detail. From the moment you step onto the platform at 602 N 3rd St, you are entering a carefully crafted world where the pace is slower, the views are grander, and the meal is an event. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic American travel, offering a delightful escape that resonates long after the train has pulled back into the station. It is an essential stop for anyone wishing to experience the charm and history of Bardstown, Kentucky, in the most memorable way possible.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
On-site services
Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway
Highlights
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Spirits
Vegan options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Historic
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Lunch reservations recommended
Reservations required
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Special Excursions
Murder Mystery
Bourbon Excursions
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train Gift Certificates
Spinach and Feta Spanakopita
Salad: Golden Spike Salad
Soup: Roasted Corn Chowder
Beef: Prime Rib
Poultry: Amaretto Chicken
Pork: Pan Seared Pork Sirloin
Seafood: Grilled Mahi Mahi
Roasted Fall Vegetables
Prime Rib
Cheeseburger
Chicken Tenders
Roasted Fall Vegetables
Apple Dumpling
Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Main Menu
Shrimp CocktailUS$22.00
Warm Kentucky Beer Cheese*US$14.00
Fresh Tomato BruschettaUS$12.00
Cheese BoardUS$20.00
Chocolate Choo-ChooUS$7.00
Golden Spike Salad*
Summer Berry Salad
Beef Pot Roast**
Kentucky Hot Brown
Shrimp and Grits
Vegetarian Chicken
Children's Beef Pot Roast**
Children's Cheeseburger
Children's Chicken Tenders
Apple Dumpling
Lemon Berry Cake
Derby Pie
Triple-Chocolate Mousse
Tomato and Feta Crostini**
Golden Spike Salad*
Summer Berry Salad
Prime Rib
Honey Glazed Chicken
Hazelnut Brandied Pork*
Pan Seared Sea Scallops*
Vegetarian Chicken
Children's Prime Rib
Children's Cheeseburger
Children's Chicken Tenders
Apple Dumpling
Lemon Berry Cake
Derby Pie
Triple Chocolate Mousse
Fall/Winter Menu 2019-2020
Shrimp CocktailUS$22.00
Warm Kentucky Beer CheeseUS$14.00
Fresh Tomato BruschettaUS$12.00
Cheese BoardUS$20.00
Chocolate Choo-Choo
Golden Spike Salad
Roasted Corn Chowder
Beef Pot Roast
Kentucky Hotbrown
Seafood Cakes
Roasted Fall Vegetables
Children's Beef Pot Roast
Children's Cheeseburger
Children's Chicken Tenders
Prime Rib
Amaretto Chicken
Pan Seared Pork Sirloin
Grilled Mahi Mahi
Roasted Fall Vegetables
Children's Prime Rib
Children's Cheeseburger
Children's Chicken Tenders
Apple Dumpling
Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Gluten free dessert options are available on request.
Spring/Summer Menu 2020
Shrimp CocktailUS$22.00
Fresh Tomato BruschettaUS$12.00
Warm Kentucky Beer CheeseUS$14.00
Cheese BoardUS$20.00
Chocolate Choo-Choo
Golden Spike Salad
Prime Rib French Dip
Kentucky Hotbrown
Barbeque Shrimp and Grits
Vegetarian Pasta
Mini Burger Sliders
Children's Chicken Tenders
Fresh Hummus Trio
Prime Rib
Smoked Paprika Chicken
Barbeque Shrimp and Grits
Chimichurri Pork roast
Vegetarian Pasta
Children's Prime Rib
Mini Burger Sliders
Children's Chicken Tenders
Apple Dumpling
Derby Pie
Fruit Cobbler
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Gluten free dessert options are available on request.
Photos
Reviews My Old Kentucky Dinner Train
Callie Holman
06-12-2025
We did the Polar Express train with our two daughters (2 & 5). Overall, we really enjoyed the experience. The girls are already asking when we can go back. The food was very good, the girls had spaghetti and my husband and I had chicken … More
G GG
29-11-2025
We had a Great experience and enjoyed ourselves aboard The Old Kentucky Dinner Train. The couple that shared a table with Us was exceptional!! Great food and We enjoyed each other's company as well as conversation. The Servers had Outstanding Hospitallity and did their jobs exceptionally well. Well done!!!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Dan Edwards
26-10-2025
Wonderful experience for my wife and I. Delicious food! Friendly servers, festive, holiday décor! The outside scenery along the train ride had past the time of the leaves changing colors. All in all, it was a fun, festive, tasty, scenic experience! More
Megan
02-10-2025
We did the polar express. It wasn’t as interactive as I had imagined but most importantly they do not handle food allergies carefully. Luckily I double checked every time they brought something new, after notifying them when buying the … More
Danny Hall
18-09-2025
My party of five had an excellent time. My guest from Texas and Las Vegas were amazed. The atmosphere, service, and food were absolutely excellent. We had a wonderful time. The Prime Rib is the best I have had. Cooked perfectly. More
Linda
03-09-2025
Fantastic experience! We had a party of five to celebrate an anniversary and we felt special. They put two of us to one table and three to the other across the isle. Food and service was excellent. We took the mystery train and it was entertaining. The views were nice as the leaves are starting to change.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Kid-friendliness
I don’t recommend small children. Preteens and teens would enjoy.
Scott Jacobs
26-08-2025
Beautiful train, nice ride and a great meal. So much good food! We had a blast. The staff were professional and accommodating. More
keith vickers
22-08-2025
The food was delicious and the scenery was great!!! Everyone working was so nice and friendly, we had the best time. We had Tracy taking care of us and she was the best. More
Donald Campbell
15-08-2025
I surprised my wife for her birthday with this dinner train. I almost booked our own table, but our table guests were just as pleasant as the train, so I'm glad I didn't. The food was not bad. My wife had to send her steak back, but it was corrected immediately. My food was little bland, but nothing that some salt and pepper couldn't fix. The staff was friendly and well trained.
Boarding and deboarding were well organized, and the overall experience was great. Don't expect to see a lot of scenery, but it's still a great experience. People didn't seem too engaged in the murder mystery, but I had fun. I hope to do it again.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Rhonda xmax Alexandra
09-08-2025
Highly recommend this adventure for couples or friends and families passengerwhere 5 yrs to 85 yrs old. Magnificent prime rib dinner included in this price. The Murder Mystery dinner theater was fun to figure out who did it......i selected wrong...lol. Service was fabulous 4 course meal. More
guinnessindian40
05-08-2025
Other than my halibut being slightly dry, the entire experience was amazing and our server Sabrina was incredible! This is a very long way from home as I live in Southwest Louisiana but I will definitely be back if the Good Lord is willing.
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Bob Mitchell
04-08-2025
This was our first time taking the train. Our wedding anniversary was two weeks later, which was already sold out, so this was close to that date. It will be 59 years being married and the trip was wonderful. I ordered a rose for my wife … More
Gideon Bailey
30-07-2025
Absolutely loved the whole experience,can't wait to do the bourbon ride and the murder mystery.
Food:…
More
Kevin Hooker
27-07-2025
If you’re sleeping on this gem, stop. What a great time! Amazing service. The best bruschetta I’ve ever had. And the pot roast at lunch was fantastic. Fork tender is an understatement.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
ambrosia Johnston
22-06-2025
So the 2 ladies i was vacationing with had previously purchased tickets before I joined the trip and I didn't think I would be able to get on the dinner train due to reservations being booked ahead so far out. They went to check in and … More
j deraimo
04-06-2025
I’ve always wanted to do this and finally I did. My best friend and her mom came, too. The train is very comfortable and tables had plenty of leg room. The staff was very friendly and efficient and the food was great! If I had one complaint … More
Katrina Jaingue
23-05-2025
We enjoyed the company we had today in our table. The service was good with exception of the food. They brought the wrong lunch for me. We pre order online and got the wrong meal served. Other than that it was a fun ride! Nice weather too.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$100+
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people
Mary Potts
09-05-2025
The staff were very nice and accommodating. The food was mediocre at best. I felt like there should have been Christmas music playing and someone providing the history of Bardstown. Very pricey experience! Would not recommend! More
Jane Kelley
02-05-2025
It was a lot of fun! We will go back again, maybe I will take my adult grandkids. Very accommodating for special care and very patient crew. Best for 2 couples because the tables seat 4. More
Michael Duncan
30-04-2025
An enjoyable lunch on "My Old Kentucky Dinner Train". Get there early- they are very busy. Go to website and purchase tickets, you pick them up when you arrive. You're instructed where to board according to train car. Station staff are very friendly and helpful. It appears that handicapped persons could use the train but some might have difficulty. When seated your salad is already on the table. Servers then go introduce themselves to each of their tables. There is a small center aisle with a table seating 4 on each side (cozy but it works). Each car also has a small bathroom. Servers are amazing, constantly moving & are attentive to your needs. They do a fantastic job! The food was very good. As you eat the train rolls gently for 20+ miles, stops, then returns in reverse. You travel out of town through residential & farmland wth distilleries. They have a sound system in each car but couldn't hear it for the passengers. Around a two hour excursion with plenty of time to enjoy your meal & companions. There is no smoking/vaping on board or on property. When you disembark you can go through their gift shop, use the bar or use the station bathroom.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Kentucky Hot Brown, Derby Pie, House Salad
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Lauren Gibbs
29-04-2025
We went for our 5th wedding anniversary with a gift certificate, but I can't really say I'd recommend this experience full price. It's $120 a person at dinner time, and even at lunch I still believe it's $80-90. For that price, I really … More
JJ Marshall
24-04-2025
The dinner train was great...
We really enjoy ourselves and the food and atmosphere was amazing... definitely wanna come back for the Murder mystery rides! More
Shannon Vanderpool
16-04-2025
We were on train car 011 table 1 Gale was our server. She was absolutely fabulous. The food was absolutely awesome. Can't speak highly enough about the pot roast. The flavor was spot on. Mashed potatoes, bread, carrots it was all absolutely … More
Jake Housewright
14-04-2025
It was so amazing
Me and my mom had dinner on board
The food was excellent and the service was to
Eating dinner in restored 1940s/50s era dining cars was an awesome experience and
I honestly can wait to come back
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Group size
2 people
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Bobbie Oldendick
04-04-2025
We really enjoyed the train ride. The dinner was out of this world and very hot, tasty!!!. It was fabulous.
Our only complaint is it took 45 min to even get a drink the first time. around. … More
Kinny Landrum
15-03-2025
I first want to say that you have a fantastic facility. It is very clean and the staff is very well trained.
Our experience started off very well for my girlfriend’s 66th birthday. The lady that served us a drink at the bar, the host that answered all our questions, and Ashleigh our waitress.
We had a private table for two including priority seating which was awesome.
The salad was very good and so was our meal. However, I was very disappointed with the dessert. The ice cream was very melted. I was going to request another one but when I saw my girlfriends was melted I didn’t since I assume they came from the same place.
They refunded the cost of the ice cream.
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Channing Ford
12-02-2025
We booked our work Christmas Party here for the Murder Mystery Dinner Train. Lauren was FANTASTIC to work with and made everything go smoothly for our group of 30 people. We really enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. We had NO complaints … More
Justin Hubbard
18-01-2025
Food was great! Not the most scenic ride, but a few points of interest! Cheap wine cost too much per glass. More
Melanie J Watkins
17-01-2025
Entering the station there are nice little tables to sit at and a cash bar where you can get drinks while waiting to board. There's also a nice gift shop that sells a lot of nice gifts and souvenirs. It's also open an hour afterwards. … More
Heather Farroux
12-01-2025
If I could give a negative for the quality of food I would. Clearly use AI generated pictures on website. Service and atmosphere was good and dinner show was great. Not worth the price point of the meal...should have known when we had two ( see pic below of what you show on site) stale pretzel bites, a glob of cold cheese and two celery sticks on plate as the first course. Chicken was dry and barely edible prime rib was at least 50% fat
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 1
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Noise level
Very loud, hard to hear
Group size
2 people
Reviews My Old Kentucky Dinner Train