From crisp autumn evenings to festive holiday magic, the Nickel Plate Express is rolling out unforgettable rides you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening escape, a family-friendly outing, or a one-of-a-kind themed experience, there’s a seat waiting just for you.
Here’s what’s coming down the tracks.
Atlanta New Earth Festival
Sept. 26
Climb aboard at Hobbs Station for a scenic one-hour ride to the charming town of Atlanta, where the New Earth Festival awaits with shopping, live music, and delicious festival fare.
Enjoy two hours to explore before your return trip, complete with beverages available from the onboard cash bar. With seating options from vintage-style coaches to cozy dining cars, it’s the perfect fall day trip. Book your ride for the best seat in town … on the rails!
Fall Friday Night Read & Ride
Sept. 27 & 28
Trade screen time for story time on this peaceful two-hour Friday night ride through Northern Hamilton County. Bring your favorite book and choose between the adults-only Gaylor Coach for quiet reading or the family-friendly Empire Coach.
Sip a glass of wine, snack, and let the rhythm of the rails be your soundtrack. For book lovers, there’s no cozier way to welcome fall.
The Snapdragon Society Express: Fragile!
Sept. 26
Step into 1959 Indiana and join the Snapdragon Society on a mission to protect a valuable glass formula from greedy competitors. This 18-and-up interactive storytelling adventure blends mystery, history, and improvisation aboard a vintage dining car.
With small group play and no acting experience required, every choice you make shapes the story. It’s history, creativity, and fun rolled into one unforgettable ride.
Bourbon & Bacon on the Rails
Oct. 11 & 12
For two days only, savor the perfect pairing of Indiana-made bourbon and savory bacon bites aboard the 1956 Nickel Plate Express. In partnership with Westfork Whiskey, this 21-and-up ride delivers three curated bourbon tastings, each matched with a bacon treat.
Add in the charm of a vintage train and stunning fall views, and you have the ultimate date night or friends’ outing.
Trivia on the Tracks: Golden Girls Edition
Oct. 17
Gather your crew for a night of laughter, themed cocktails, and Golden Girls trivia aboard this two-hour nostalgia-packed ride. Nibble on a charcuterie box, sip a Blanche-worthy drink, and compete for prizes while reliving the sass, wit, and heart of everyone’s favorite Miami foursome.
Costumes are encouraged. Friendship (and a little competition) never looked so golden.
Trick or Treat on the Rails
Oct. 26
Bring the family for a spooktacular 65-minute ride filled with fall scenery, fresh apple cider, and Halloween fun. Kids receive trick-or-treat bags, costumes are encouraged, and the whole experience is designed to be festive and family-friendly.
It’s the perfect way to make Halloween memories that will last beyond the candy.
Reindeer Express
November & December
Turn holiday magic into a family tradition aboard the Reindeer Express. Sip hot chocolate, nibble cookies, meet Santa’s elves, and deliver your letter straight to the North Pole – all while enjoying a scenic ride through Northern Hamilton County.
Choose from Diamond, Platinum, or Standard seating, or book a private holiday caboose for up to 20 guests. With twinkling lights, festive music, and a visit from Santa himself, it’s the most magical ride of the season.
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Reserve your spot before the whistle blows! Seats fill fast for these seasonal favorites, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. Book your ride today at NickelPlateExpress.com and make this fall and holiday season truly unforgettable.