Passenger Trains > A Journey in Time Dinner Train Service

Once a month for 4 days, Thursday thru Sunday, the Aberdeen Carolina & Western operates their Journey in Time Dinner Train Service out of Aberdeen NC. Train originates at the wye downtown and takes a slow ramble up through Pinehurst to the edge of West End NC, where it reverses direction and returns to Aberdeen for a leasurly 2 1/2 hour round trip.   Train consists of an ex ATSF full dome, The Summit View, which operated in "Amtrak" service as part of the Iowa Pacific operation of the Hoosier State, and a twin diner set that served on the PRR Congresional. The routine is you board the dome for drinks and Hors De-oeuvres then are seated in the dinner about an hour into the trip.  Dinner changes every month, is prepared aboard by ACWR's chef (yes, they employ a full time chef), is always top notch with impeccable service. It's not cheap, but worth every dime.  Train is seen here crossing Linden Road in Pinehurst NC.  The SD40 has been pinch hitting for the E9 for the past month or so. 



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/27/25 18:15 by scraphauler.

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As I said, this is not a cheap excursion, but the limited seating, only operating 4 days a month, changing top notch menu, and great service keep it rather full, with most trips, especially Friday and Saturday, selling out.  Clientele is a mix of locals and tourists from the resort.  

First Picture shows Thursday dome as it was loading 
Second shot is a quick grab of CSXT L619 passing in background 
Third shot is this months menu 
 



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/27/25 18:47 by scraphauler.

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The first picture in this series is of ACWR's other attraction, Engine Room 87, at its normal spot at the Pinehurst Resort & Country Club.  87 is open to the public, seven days a week (weather permitting). They also take it to other events on line. 

Couple shots of train back in Aberdeen after dark. 



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/27/25 18:15 by scraphauler.

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It certainly looks like a first class operation.

Thanks for the coverage, scraphauler.  I know 'Chef Alan' and he's terrific.  Made many a fine meal for excursions operated by LArail.

-John

I do wish these dinner trains would offer "real food" on occasion. I only recognize half of the words on that menu!!!

Yeah, I am not adventurous especially if expected to spend that much money.

Michael

Latebeans Wrote:
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> It certainly looks like a first class operation.

Although no one seems dressed for the occasion.

Latebeans Wrote:
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> It certainly looks like a first class operation.

That would look a lot better if they would strip off that stupid purple paint and let the stainless steel shine. 

emd_mrs1 Wrote:
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> I do wish these dinner trains would offer "real
> food" on occasion. I only recognize half of the
> words on that menu!!!
>
> Yeah, I am not adventurous especially if expected
> to spend that much money.
>
> Michael

Here's menues from a couple previous trains - any "real" food on them?  😁.  Next month is supposed to be based on local peaches and pork.  

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