My wife and I were treated to the Cincinnati Dinner Train experience last evening by my father and his lady-friend, and what an experience it was! The food was very good, and plentifu But the vintage 1949 atmosphere makes the experience unique and fun. And the staff work hard to ensure that you have a great time; from service with a smile, to local history given at key points, through the entertaining singing by the Queen City Sisters; you'll feel like you've really taken a trip back to a simpler, better time. read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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The first impression was great!Loved the greeting of the crew members. If you didn't reserve a whole table then there is that possibility that you will be seated with another couple at your table. I'm our case, it ended up to be perfect strangers! A mother and her son had been surprised with Dinner Train tickets and they were beautiful people, glad to have them both at our table. Before the train departed there awaits a small charcuterie sampling, which was delightful. As the train departed the server took our drink order. We both had iced tea which really was just light brown colored water, had absolutely no flavor whatsoever. Overall, dinner was so unimpressive. Much of a disappointment. Although we did enjoy the entertainment from the ladies singing song's of old. On the positive note, this would be great for first timers on a locomotive. read more

The food was very good. The service was great. The train was very clean and very nice. The thing I hated was there was no view of anything except a bunch of bushes along the train tmtrack with a few small abandoned buildings. It's not worth the money. I would not recommend it for anyone unless you want a boring dinner meal. read more

This is sooooo fun! Great for a special occasion! We were there for our anniversary. The food was good, the conductor came by our table for a chat several times to answer questions, etc. The singing group was incredible and really added to the 1940s vibe. read more

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I waited quite a while to make this review because I do not like making negative reviews, knowing how it might affect the Resturant and or anyone that was involved. I attended the dinner train for my 34th wedding anniversary on October 3. My husband and I were on time and got to the car when we should have but we're held up by the narrow hallways to get to our our car. there were two servers that were chatting and "blocking" the entrance to our car I overheard one of the servers ask the other server if she had put water on all of the tables and she had assured her she had. When we finally get to our table, there is in fact no water, but there is a plate of crackers cheese spread fruit and a few other things. We patiently waited as we proceeded to eat the plate in front of us for our server to come around and offer us water, we waited over 10 minutes to finally get the water and the attitude that our server had because she had to bring us water after we had already finished all of our food was pretty nasty. I understand they were busy trying to get everything situated, but her exchange with us was not very friendly and the people sitting across from us at our table noted how "she could be nicer". As it turns out SHE, our server was the woman who had assured the other server while we were waiting to get to our car that she had filled all the water glasses. The food was mediocre at best, the cocktail server was fantastic and very sweet, she was the one who actually got our server to get us the water in the first place. The train ride is long and it goes through a very bad part of town. There's not a whole lot to see it's not very pretty and the entertainment only visited our car one time and for us to walk to the entertainment car was walking clear all the way across the train. I had high hopes for this experience and it turned out to be extremely disappointing in so many ways. read more

What an experience and fun time. Very friendly staff. Just a very neat experience. We got the prime rib and it was pretty darn good. Baked potatoe was perfect as we're the green beans. Cheesecake for dessert was awesome as was the pecan chocolate pie. So fun. Give the Cincinnati Dinner Train a ride. Enjoy read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - Prime Rib - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I am a little disappointed: 1. Dress code- from the website it appears there is a strict dress code and people are warned they could be refused admittance on the train. It really seems like the dress code was a mere suggestion as they did not enforce it which was disappointing. 2. The food was a 3/10. The prime rib that I ordered Med Rare was very well done. The baked potato was very dry, and the cheesecake ok. 3. The conductor talked too much and for way too long. People on our train would listen then start talking and he would command quiet so he could keep talking. I am glad that we experienced this but would not do it again. read more

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The Cincinnati Dinner Train is a wonderful experience. It starts in Pleasant Ridge neighborhood and then winds through he east side neighborhoods and stops near the Montgomery Inn Boathouse restaurant. It then travels back to Pleasant Ridge. read more

Greataaa food. Great service. Great ambiance. Every thing went well. This is a special treat. A behind normal viewing and a person does not see when r Driving. A wonderful trip that is a circle but outstanding. read more

Dear Cincinnati Dinner Train Management,I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the absolutely wonderful time my family and I had on the train. It was truly a spectacular evening from start to finish.While the historic cars and the delicious food were incredible, they were only a backdrop to the real stars of the evening. They say a journey is defined by the company you keep, but in this case, your staff was more than half the reason our night was so unforgettable. Their warmth, energy, and impeccable service transformed a great dinner into a collection of beautiful memories that my family will cherish for years to come. They truly went above and beyond to make us feel special.Thank you for running such a top-notch operation. Please feel free to reach out anytime if there is ever anything I can help you with in the future.Warm regards,George read more

We were fortunate enough to find that someone had canceled the Saturday before Christmas so we jumped on it and took that table. They really go out of your way to give you a great experience. Everyone is so happy to be there. The food was good, it wasn't stellar. The entertainment was fantastic, very entertaining. We happened to go on a night when there was a lot of traffic on the railway so we were about an hour and 15 minutes late getting back, which was no big deal because we were on the train Longer but the car we were in was absolutely freezing. It was 20° the night we went and it felt like they didn't have the heat on. My advice when going is to dress in layers because it's hit or miss. read more

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We had so much fun! It is expensive, and it is nicely catered-level food, but it was perfect to do with my elderly, limited mobility, parents. The service was amazing, and who doesn't love dressing up in vintage clothes for the evening? The prime rib was quite overdone, but wonderfully seasoned and everything hit that perfect point of simple enough to appeal to most palates but complex and nicely done enough to feel special. The whole thing felt glamorous and was so easy for a special night. read more

"Dinner, nostalgia, and a moving view--what more could you want?" I had the absolute pleasure of riding the Cincinnati Dinner Train recently, and it was hands-down one of the most memorable dining experiences I've had in a long time. From the outside, it's already charming--but once you board, you're stepping into a time capsule from the 1940s, complete with vintage railcars, soft lighting, and a vibe that feels straight out of an old movie. You even get to watch your servers work with perfect timing in a train car that's in constant motion--now that's dinner and a show! I had a calzone that was insanely good--crispy on the outside, cheesy perfection on the inside. You select your entrée when you buy tickets, which makes the whole process smooth. Everything was served with care, and the pacing of the evening was relaxed and thoughtful. The route gives you a peek into parts of Cincinnati you probably haven't seen--even as a local. And if you're visiting the city? This is such a cool way to do something different and memorable. This would be an amazing choice for an anniversary, birthday, or impressing visiting friends. Honestly, even if you think you're not a "train person," give it a shot--you'll walk away smiling (and very full)! read more

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We had a good time because this was our first time on it. I am good for another decade. We went in December. There were no leaves and no snow. It was dark but outside you could see shopping places, gas stations, buildings, train yards and a little of the Ohio river. The end of the loop is at Montgomery Inn Boathouse and then the train reverses course. Even if this was July you would have seen mostly bamboo and honeysuckle. The main landmark was a carving in the wall (LOL). There was a singing Trio - The Queen City Sisters singing 1940 or 1950 tunes. You could listen to them perform in the last train car after dinner. They made rounds through all the rail cars but only sang 1 song in ours and I had to turn around to just see the backs of them. We were at the last table. It cost $113+ per person (including tax). For that you got a 3 hour train ride, a meal and specialty drinks for $10 each. Bottles of wine were expensive. I remember a Beringer Moscato bottle was $48 and probably is under $10 in the store. Iced tea and water was included. We sat in the original New York car. It was tight but reasonably comfortable. Meals consisted of an appetizer plate (grapes, crackers, peanut like spread and cold cuts like salami - couldn't place it), Salad, Prime Rib or Salmon and Cheesecake or Pecan Pie for dessert. Prime Rib was under cooked by 1 level. My medium rare was rare and a seat mate was medium instead of medium-well After dinner (behind the sisters group) you could pull the train whistle and the conductor would take your picture or video. This was cool. If you wanted a special pin it was $5. Some people dressed up in period clothing. Please note that tables are 2 and 4. We had 3 so they placed a single by us. This turned out fine since she was very nice. They told us since we didn't buy the extra seat they paired us with someone. I saw several 4 tops with only 2 people. They only have a few 2 tops so if you are a couple you could be sharing a 4 top. Service was pretty good. I did get water spilled on me by the waiter overflowing a glass at a nearby table. The tickets don't include tips so expect to leave a tip. read more

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My family took the train for a nostalgic trip down Christmas memory lane. It was a delightful experience, from the actual cars to the food and the entertainment. The entire train was beautifully decorated for the holidays, and singers greeted us in line as we waited to board the train. Conductors took group photos with our phone, which was a nice touch! The locomotive is from the 1960s, and the railcars are from the 1940s. The entertainment on the train was a lovely group of 3 women singing big band standards and holiday tunes. They walked through all of the cars singing and after dinner had a concert in the very last car (caboose?). The food was quite good- the entree and dessert (more on this later). That says a lot concerning the number of dinners they are whipping up in a small onboard kitchen. I had the salmon which was cooked perfectly and accompanied by green beans and a baked potato. I had the cheesecake for dessert, and it was wonderful. The cocktail menu had very appropriately themed drink names, and in addition to your server bringing you drinks, you could walk up to the lounge car and order drinks there as well. The appetizer looked and tasted unappealing. I think they could create something better at the same food cost. (See photo). This was a great experience for a special Christmas holiday excursion. Not sure I would want to go at another time as the route has very little to see out the windows besides tunnels with graffiti. But the experience was well worth the time and money, despite the view! read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - Standard Appetizer - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

We went on the dinner train with a group of about 12 people. It was like stepping back in time and was really fun! We all dressed in 1940's outfits and had a great time! The food was prompt and plentiful, and better than I expected. The service was attentive and much like a symphony getting out that many meals at the same time! I would definitely go again, we ended the evening by all taking a turn blowing the horn!! read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - The singers wander the train performing classic hits from the 1940's - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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This was such a fun experience! Great food and service. Dressing up was fun. I would definitely do it again! read more

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My husband and I had a wonderful experience on Saturday evening aboard The Cincinnati Dinner Train! Everyone involved in the experience was so friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make our experience enjoyable! The train cars were beautifully restored and really gave you the "Old time train vibe". We went from car to car looking at the old photos and memorabilia and enjoyed hearing the history of the cars and the rail line. Also, we very much enjoyed the singing group who entertained before dinner. The food, prepared on the train, was even better than I could imagine. The service was truly amazing. Special shoutout to Megan, Vickie, Brian, Brett (with 2 t's) on the train and to Tony the who navigated parking and security! Thank you all for an amazing dinner train experience! We've already told friends of our great adventure, and we will be back! read more

We so enjoyed being aboard the Cincinnati Dinner Train!! What a fun and different experience. The food and service was great. All the employees really go the extra mile to connect with each group. We very much enjoyed our evening and look forward to going again sometime soon!! But, next time we are absolutely going to dress in theme. 1940s!! read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - a table set for two - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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This was definitely a great experience!!!..... The atmosphere is fantastic !!! Most importantly the FOOD....is pretty darn good. My favorite was hands down the Cheesecake with fresh strawberries & strawberry coolie. We sat aboard the New York Central train #447, which was one of only 2 cars still in operation out of the total 12 cars ordered by NYC in 1944. The New York Central car is the only actual True dining car out of the fleet. Both service & food was excellent!!... would love to do this again with entire family!!... Dont forget to toot the authentic horn!! read more

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This was definitely a unique experience, and highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different to do. Each of the cars were different decor, and it was refreshing yo walk through each cart. Very relaxing. The food was way better than I expected, kudos to the amazing staff that cooks the fold right on the cart! Thr salmon was tasty and the prime rib was juicy. It was just really good! The co owner did the talk at certain points to inform historical facts and landmarks on our tour. He only does the Milwaukee train, the rest has staff does the talk in the other cars. read more

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Truly an amazing experience. The staff was very professional, kind, and involved. The food was amazing as well as the entertainment. HIGHLY recommend! read more

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Absolutely amazing experience!!! Food was not chef's quality, but the ambience of the entire experience more than made up for it.

This is as close to Orient Express as you are going to get in Cincinnati, Ohio! This was a very unique dinner experience. My wife and I boarded the Dinner Train for their 1949 Dinner. This particular event is twice a year,and the patron are required (ok, strongly encouraged) to dress in 1940's attire for a throwback experience into the Golden Age of post-WWII America. The ambiance is amazing, chiefly because, well, its a freakin' train! We were seated at Table 1 of the Milwaukee Car. The tables are all 2- or 4-top making for a very intimate dining experience. We were welcomed by the Queen City Sisters piping out some great post-war tunes. It really felt like we were stepping back seventy years (except maybe for everyone taking selfies of themselves on their modern phones.) The first leg of the trip heads out from Golf Manor for a final destination of lower Cincinnati by the river (close to Sawyer Point). Along the way you get a great history lesson on the storied history of rail travel in Cincinnati- truly fascinating. The Dinner train staff will break in with a personally delivered oration of highlights out your rail car window and the history of the associated areas. During this 5-10 mph trip, a 3-course dinner is served. The food is typical catering food, a simple appetizer and salad followed by your choice of chicken, salmon or prime rib and dessert/coffee. The food was very good, but is elevated simply by the fact that it was fully prepared on the train. The Milwaukee care is closest to the kitchen car (see the pic) and the delicious smells waft through as you slow cruise the rails towards the river. Don't expect haute cuisine, but really the food was actually very good. On the return trip, all of the dinner plates and silverware have been cleared and we were encourage to tour the train. The Queen City Sisters were crooning away in the converted Ringling Brother Circus car (now a cool little lounge). We made our way to the back deck where you can pull the whistle rope and watch the tracks disappear into the darkness behind you. The variety and originality of the 1940's garb was incredible and truly added to the experience (the Dinner Train is business casual the rest of the year, though you are always welcome to dress in period attire.) The return trip is at a much quicker pace to get you back on time, but there is a scheduled stop to admire a hidden piece of Cincinnati history you can not view any other way. (I won't spoil this- ride the train and check it out for yourself). The whole trip lasted about 3.5 hours but felt like time-travel. Definitely on the list to do again. P.S. Don't forget to smile and waive at The Waving Couple. What a great tradition! read more

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Such a fun and unique experience to celebrate an anniversary. Table for two in the Sword Car that seated at most eight people so definitely a quieter train car. Enjoyed the history by the conductor and owner also made several appearances. read more

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My wife and I enjoyed an amazing night aboard the Cincinnati Dinner Train. We rode the 1946 Milwaukee Road table car where we were transported in time back to the 1940's. Dinner was amazing! We both chose the Hoisin Glazed Salmon, which was cooked to perfection and tasted spectacular paired with a baked potato and green beans. For dessert we chose one of each of the options. I enjoyed the Chocolate Pecan Pie, and my wife had the Strawberry Glazed Cheesecake. Both were extraordinary! The ride was enjoyable, comfortable and informative. We loved learning about Cincinnati's rich railroading history. Some of the scenery during the ride was less than appealing, but we understand that it is outside of their control. I only add that part so that others will know to expect it. You are riding through an urban, industrial setting for parts of the trip so it is to be expected and shouldn't be held against this companies amazing experience that they offer. We would recommend this trip to anyone looking for an adventurous yet laid back evening with your significant other or for a larger gathering of friends as they do accommodate groups. They get 5 stars from me and my word that we will be back with friends to experience the Cincinnati Dinner Train again very soon! read more

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The Dinner Train is as much about the experience as it is the food & drinks although they are being of high quality. The staff is well informed and knowledgeable about the history of the train and the route it takes through the east side to Sawyer Point/ Montgomery Boathouse area and back to its Langdon Farm/Cincinnati Gardens (no longer there) area. Plenty of off street parking is available and parking lot is well lit when you return. Certain seating areas require late 1940's era costume dress and many people cosplay to the nines with their costumes. Not required for all dining cars but jeans & non-collared shirts are NOT ALLOWED. I had the prime rib dinner with 2 sides. The PR was served as ordered with excellent flavor. Green bean/tomato and baked potato sides were very tasty. Cherry cheesecake desert was also very good. Entertainment by the Queen City Sisters was era appropriate and good fun. The QCS's vocal harmonies where spot on and the selection of Andrews Sisters songs was well thought out and kept all the riders entertained. My wife and I plan on booking another dinner in the future. Will definitely do this again. read more

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The Cincinnati Dinner Train is one experience I wish I had money enough to provide for every person I love, each precious friend, every co-worker whose cameraderie I value, and seriously, every person-- well, anywhere, in need of a little extra happiness and R&R in their lives! The fact is, being on that train is nothing short of magical! Sometimes money buys beautiful gifts, and while we all know it can't buy happiness, every now and then one stumbles upon something that challenges that dogma with something so unique, so intrinsically valuable that once experienced, buys so much more than you ever imagined it would. That is what I believe you will discover, as I did, the moment you step aboard. Now ambiance is one thing, and ambiance they've definetly got, but in my opinion the true heart and soul of the CDT, what makes the Cincinnati Dinner Train unforgettable, is their dedicated and incredibly hard working, polished and well-trained hospitality team and experiencing first hand the way they go above and beyond expectation to make your night or celebration unforgettable! I'm talking about the servers, bartenders, talented chefs and white-gloved entertainment conductors dressed to impress, ready to extend their hand as you board and take you on a real journey back in time! Oh! And did I mention they have a car that was actually used by the Barnum and Bailey Circus as they toured the country performing their iconic shows! So cool to stand inside it and wonder what kinds of things were there before me! It's the way you feel when you hear the Queen City Sisters' crystal clear acapella voices projecting the epitome of femininity -- whose resonance, smooth harmony and charm evoke an atmosphere so nostalgic you'll swear you're living back in the good old days where the rat pack still ruled the scene, ladies wore proper dresses on Sunday adorned with feathers and fancy hats, and crowds of families still took to the streets of downtown on foot to shop, filling the sidewalks with laughter and an aire of simpler times. If you have a birthday, anniversary, or special moment in your future there really is no comparison, in my book! The CDT runs every Saturday from mid-March until the end of the year, with ticket prices inclusive of a full night of fine dining and entertainment, music and fascinating history as the conductors share stories along the journey about the many sights to be seen. Much thanks to CDT and staff for having me out to see what all the fuss is about! What an incredible night! read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - Hanging out in the Silver Sword lounge on the Cincinnati Dinner Train! I really like this space. - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Three families joined together for a nice pre-Christmas dinner experience. This was our first time on the Cincinnati Dinner Train and we all had a fantastic time. The ride was around 3 hrs round trip but it flew by. The ambience was great for conversation, the wait staff was very nice, and the over-mic commentary and history was fantastic. The train travels at a very pleasant 5-15 mph which make it smooth for dinner and walking around afterward. We will definitely make this an annual tradition. read more

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We loved it. I took my 17 yo son. We were seated with two strangers and we had a very nice chat over dinner. The scenery is cool even though a lot of is retail, industrial etc. The servers and attendants were solicitous and helpful. As probably could be expected, the food was not that great. People seemed happy with the prime rib and chicken, less happy with the salmon and the vegetarian entree was sliced zucchini with marinara sauce. Not good. The sides and dessert were fine. The atmosphere was convivial and classy. We'll definitely do it again. read more

Omg I lovveee it here! Super lovely ambiance. Would definitely recommend to go with friends or a date!

The food was excellent. Embarkation area was a little difficult to find. Parking was on a gravel lot, so car exterior will be filthy when done. It was good though. I loved the running commentary provided. Nice souvenir program. Recommended! read more

I was a part of a party of 4 that went on the dinner train on 6-12-21. We had an excellent time, the food and service were top notch. The drink prices were very reasonable also. The owner of the train did the commentary on our car and he was very informative of the history of the area and of the train. I would recommend this to everyone. The only bad experience we had was with the dress code. The website lists the dress code as strictly enforced, however we witnessed numerous people on board wearing shorts and flip flops. If you are going to have a dress code, enforce it otherwise let the rest of us be a bit more comfortable by allowing shorts. T-shirts and flipflops. read more

Wow, we had a great time. Food was better than expected. Started with a bottle of wine then our group has different mixed drinks and all were great. Loved the "Andrews Sisters " singing group. We got into the spirit by dressing in 1940s garb-we weren't alone. The entire train was a friendly group and all had a good time. The owner gave a few bits of facts and history which made it even more interesting. We highly recommend this gem of an evening but book now- it fills up fast! read more

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Had a great time. Very nostalgic. Food was good. Entertainment was great. Would do it again.

The train ride was fun. We sat across from a nice couple and had a good conversation. The servers were nice and attentive. They helped make the atmosphere. The entertainment conductor was fun and knowledgeable. We tried a couple signature drinks and they were quite tasty; also they were not over priced. The food was fine. I would call it average. Everyone at the table cleaned their plates, so i think it's safe to say we all liked the meal. The photos were terrible. The photographer wanted $10 for a washed out picture that didn't even look as good as the ones Kings Island takes of you on a coaster. Overall, the only reason that I would not return is the scenery. 3 hours of shrubs and graffiti with a port-a-potty and a gravel yard. When I booked this, I thought we were going to get scenic views. Historical Cincinnati was the impression I received from the Internet. Being from the north, we've never experienced cinci and we were looking forward to the historical sites that the website alluded us to believe we would see. Instead, we saw bushes. read more

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Was an awesome experience even during the restrictions with Covid!! Highly recommend and plan on coming back read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - Was an awesome experience even during the restrictions with Covid!! Highly recommend and plan on coming back - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Phenomenal! Excellent Food! Fantastic And Amazing Accomodation and Historical Content! It is one of a kind and definitely something I fully recommend to any couple/family/corporate group!!! read more

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This is classified as Traditional as there is no category for dining car. Indeed this is a railway journey that begins every Saturday night at 6:00 (except for 7:00 in July and August) from in back of Madison Road's Bar B Que Review. It travels to approximately the Riverfront Boat House, where dinner is served. The dinner with choices of chicken, Roast Beef, or Salmon is very well prepared (much better than you might suppose). The service is excellent, and a full bar is available either served at your seat or in the bar car. The art deco cars are restored from the great age of railroads and are comfortable and very eye catching as is the scenery you pass by. In the summer, people outside wave and greet the train in a way they wouldn't if you walked by them. The diners are all in a festive mood and anxious to share their enjoyment with you. The trip lasts approximately two hours and runs $69.95 per person which includes the trip and the meal. No tipping is allowed. Options do exist for limo pickup and flowers for your table. Generally a table holds four persons. If you want a table for two, you need to order quite early and specify your request. Reservatiions are available at 513-791-7245 My wife and I did our anniversary there in June and were ecstatic. We recommended it to friends and they felt the same. We'll prpbably go back this year. It's really a wonderful experience you probably won't get for much longer. read more

Cincinnati Dinner Train - Cincinnati Dinner Train - New American Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Aside from the the beautifully restored cars, the food was awesome and you get to see a view of the city you can't get anywhere. The historical facts about the cars and some of "hidden Cincinnati " made for a wonderful evening. read more