The Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is the first scenic train ride I ever took that ultimately led me to make this site you’re on now. In this review I’m going to give you my personal take on this ride, what to expect, when to go and other important things to know.
Basic Info:
- Name: Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train (aka New Hampshire Dinner Train)
- Duration: 3 hours long (20 miles)
- Dinner info: 5 course dinner
- Prices: $99-$150 per person (see details)
Overview:
There is a parking lot right by the train that fits about 30 cars. There is also a station right by the rails which I recommend checking out before and after. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the train leaving (5 pm)
Once you enter the train, the first thing it does is it crosses a beautiful bridge which I believe happens to be one of the most popular spots to witness New Hampshire Fall foliage. Overall the train ride is very slow, but quite romantic as there is nice music playing all throughout while you are sitting and getting each course of the menu. Overall the food is good but not the most amazing thing I have ever eaten. In total I spent about $300 for 2 people.
In terms of getting seats in the regular car or dome area, I would say either is fine but the dome cars will obviously give you better views. Now in terms of views, I can’t say that there was anything outstanding about this trip. There were certain nice spots we crossed the first 10 miles before turning back and there are some nice farmlands and distant mountains you can see. Whether you should sit in on the right or left hand side of the car makes very little difference in my opinion.
Pros:
- Great romantic experience
- Good food (not amazing)
- The station is worth checking out
- Well worth a one time visit at least
Cons:
- Not too many scenic spots to see throughout
- Reservations are tough to get (we got very lucky). I would recommend you get them 2-3 weeks out, and if it’s fall, a month out at least!
Conclusions:
For a one time visit, absolutely. However I do believe if you want a super scenic train ride experience that it’s worth prioritizing the Conway scenic railroad which is about 45 minutes away instead of this because of how much longer it is, how much deeper it runs into the White Mountains and more (the food is better on the Dinner train though).
The Conway Scenic Railroad is what I consider to be one of the best scenic train rides in New Hampshire, although the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train has it’s own perks too so if you can do both, I’d do that but if you have to choose one, and you’re looking for a scenic experience, Conway is the way to go. If you’re looking for a romantic experience, the Cafe Lafayette Dinner train is the better choice.
Overall I was quite happy with my experience on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner train and perhaps in the future will return during autumn to do another romantic dinner there. If you are with a good partner, you can also have a very enjoyable experience here, just keep in mind that for views you have other/better options and if it’s New Hampshire of other states surrounding it, then I have another post for fall train rides in New England worth checking out.
Photos:
Things to do nearby:
- Things to do in the White Mountains (most recommended)
- Hotel options near Cafe Lafayette Dinner train
The closest town is Woodstock which has a bunch of restaurants, hikes and lodging. The White Mountains are also in the same vicinity and are worth exploring prior to the train trip (or after if there’s time).