Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with one of the most enchanting dining experiences in Rowan County: Wine & Dine on the Rails at the N.C. Transportation Museum. This elegant evening pairs vintage railroad charm with a gourmet three-course dinner, curated cocktails, and a leisurely ride through a 60-acre historic site - perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking to elevate their winter weekend.
Wine & Dine on the Rails 2026
N.C. Transportation Museum
February 13-15, 2026
Photo by the N.C. Transportation Museum.
An Evening to Remember
Start your evening with a relaxed cocktail hour inside the museum, then board a vintage railcar for an unforgettable dinner experience. Guests will enjoy classic railroad dining with seats reserved at 2-top or 4-top tables. If your party doesn’t fill the entire table, other guests may join, giving you the chance to meet new friends or enjoy an intimate setting with others.
Each guest receives three drink tickets redeemable during the cocktail hour or onboard the train, with additional beverages available for purchase. Tickets must be exchanged at the museum’s Gift Station for boarding passes, and a valid photo ID is required. This event is 21+ only.
Accessibility & Attire: Railcars used for this event are not wheelchair accessible due to the historic nature of the equipment. Guests are encouraged (but not required) to dress nicely. Smoking is prohibited in all areas.
Reservations are required, and seating is limited. The event takes place rain or shine, with no refunds or exchanges.
Event Admission
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$145 per seat - Non-Member
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$140 per seat - Member
Private Dining Upgrade: The Historic Doris Railcar
For a truly exclusive experience, reserve a private table aboard the Doris, the 1917 Pullman railcar once owned by James B. Duke. This luxurious car seats one party of four and provides an intimate, elegant setting for your Valentine’s weekend celebration. All four seats must be purchased together.
Pricing:
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Non-Member: $788 per table
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Member: $768 per table
Schedule
Friday, February 13
First Seating: 4:00–4:45 pm Cocktail Hour | 4:45 pm Boarding | 5:00–6:15 pm Dinner
Second Seating: 6:30–7:15 pm Cocktail Hour | 7:15 pm Boarding | 7:30–8:45 pm Dinner
Saturday, February 14
First Seating: 4:00–4:45 pm Cocktail Hour | 4:45 pm Boarding | 5:00–6:15 pm Dinner
Second Seating: 6:30–7:15 pm Cocktail Hour | 7:15 pm Boarding | 7:30–8:45 pm Dinner
Sunday, February 15
First Seating: 4:00–4:45 pm Cocktail Hour | 4:45 pm Boarding | 5:00–6:15 pm Dinner
Second Seating: 6:30–7:15 pm Cocktail Hour | 7:15 pm Boarding | 7:30–8:45 pm Dinner
Menu Highlights
Catering by Grate Catering, Kannapolis, N.C.
Cocktail Hour Appetizers:
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Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bites
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Bruschetta on Crostini
First Course:
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Citrus Salad with greens, oranges, dried cranberries, feta, sunflower seeds, and cranberry-orange vinaigrette
Entrée Options (choose one):
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Chicken Picatta with whipped potatoes & sautéed green beans
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Petit Bistro Filet with red wine demi, whipped potatoes & sautéed green beans
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Seared Salmon with lemon herb butter, whipped potatoes & sautéed green beans
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Vegetarian/Vegan Pasta Primavera
Desserts:
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New York Cheesecake with Berry Coulis
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Chocolate Tuxedo Mousse Cake
Beverages: Water | Sweet & Unsweet Tea | Beer & Wine
Plan Your Visit to Wine & Dine on the Rails
Extend your Wine & Dine on the Rails experience by staying overnight in Rowan County and enjoying everything our region has to offer. From charming local shops to delicious dining and scenic attractions, there’s plenty to explore before or after your elegant evening at the museum.
Take advantage of our Stay & Play with VISA Cash Rewards Package. When you book a hotel stay in Rowan County using the widget below, you’ll earn 50% back on your hotel rate in VISA e-Gift Card Rewards - a great way to make your getaway even sweeter. This ongoing package allows you to enjoy more of Rowan County while getting rewarded for your stay.
Plan ahead, reserve your accommodations, and turn a night out on the rails into a full weekend escape filled with history, flavor, and charm.