Lunch Aboard a 1950s Union Pacific Streamliner, Crossing the Bass Point Creek High Bridge

BOONE TRAIN FIELD GUIDE

Lunch Aboard a 1950s Union Pacific Streamliner, Crossing the Bass Point Creek High Bridge

An approximately 2.5-hour lunch excursion aboard climate-controlled vintage streamliner cars through the Des Moines River Valley—this guide helps you know what to expect and how to plan.

Lunch Aboard a 1950s Union Pacific Streamliner, Crossing the Bass Point Creek High Bridge.

Duration
Approximately 2.5 Hours
Location
Boone
Operator
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
Category
Train
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Board vintage 1950s Union Pacific streamliner cars for a seated lunch as the train threads the Des Moines River Valley, climbing and spanning its signature structures—the towering 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Bridge and the Des Moines River Bridge—while you dine in climate-controlled comfort.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RIDE

Dining in classic 1950s Union Pacific streamliner cars

Passengers eat aboard restored City of San Francisco or City of Los Angeles streamliner cars from the 1950s, a dining setting that pairs vintage rail architecture with modern, climate-controlled comfort.

THE VIEW

Expansive river-valley vistas and high-bridge crossings

The route includes dramatic vantage points as the train crosses the Bass Point Creek High Bridge and the Des Moines River Bridge, delivering expansive views of the Des Moines River Valley.

THE MENU

Seasonal sandwiches and entrées served on the move

Lunch service features seasonal sandwich and entrée options served during the journey, allowing passengers to enjoy a plated meal while the valley unfolds outside the windows.

What the day feels like

What the experience feels like

The Wolf Lunch Train is a relaxed, seated meal on rails: board at the Boone depot, be served lunch in climate-controlled vintage streamliner cars as the train travels the Des Moines River Valley, cross the high bridges, and return to Boone—an uninterrupted, roughly two-and-a-half-hour window of dining and scenery.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits—and who should make other plans.

1
Food-oriented day trippersA straightforward choice for travelers who want a seated, served lunch paired with scenic rail travel; the experience centers on onboard dining and views.
2
Families with small childrenFamilies can attend, but note that strollers and car seats are not allowed on the train; storage is available at the depot if you need it.
3
Travelers with animalsNot suitable for guests traveling with pets, comfort, or therapy animals, which are not permitted on board.
4
Non-smokers and those preferring a controlled environmentA good fit for non-smokers—smoking is prohibited—and for those who prefer climate-controlled seating during their meal.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The lunch excursion runs for approximately 2.5 hours; check departure times when you book and arrive at the meeting point early to board on time.

What to Bring

Bring personal essentials; the train provides lunch service on board—outside food and drinks are not permitted—so plan to eat what is served or inquire ahead about menu options.

Meeting & Arrival

The meeting location for departure is the Boone depot at 225 10th Street, Boone, Iowa 50036; arrive in time to board at the listed departure hour.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Wolf Lunch Train excursion?

The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where and when do I board?

Boarding is at the Boone depot; standard boarding for the lunch train begins at 11:00 am with return to the depot by about 1:30 pm.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

No—outside food or drinks are not allowed on board.

Are pets or service animals allowed on the train?

Pets, comfort, and therapy animals are not allowed on board.

Are strollers or car seats allowed on board?

Strollers and car seats are not permitted on the train; storage is available at the depot.

Is smoking allowed on the train?

Smoking is prohibited on board.