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.
Adventure brief
Lunch Aboard a 1950s Union Pacific Streamliner, Crossing the Bass Point Creek High Bridge
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.
Set against the lush backdrop of Iowa’s Des Moines River Valley, The Wolf Lunch Train offers an unforgettable fusion of history, scenery, and fine dining aboard vintage 1950s Union Pacific streamliner cars. Departing from Boone, a charming city steeped in Midwestern warmth, this approximately 2.5-hour journey invites travelers to step back in time and experience rail travel as it once was, all while indulging in a chef-curated seasonal menu tailored to delight the senses.
Board the historic “City of San Francisco” or “City of Los Angeles” cars at Boone’s depot, where classic mid-century elegance is preserved in every polished detail. Guests settle into climate-controlled comfort as the train begins its scenic passage through the rolling hills and river-laced terrain of the Des Moines River Valley. One of the true highlights comes early as the train crosses the Bass Point Creek High Bridge, rising 156 feet above the valley floor – a vantage point offering sweeping views that stretch far beyond the steel rails. Moments later, the trip continues over the Des Moines River Bridge, presenting a striking contrast of natural watercourses and engineered beauty.
During this leisurely cruise, a seasonal lunch is served, featuring a choice of entrée, side, and dessert complemented by refreshing beverages like soda, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee. The dining experience is intimate and nostalgic, replicating the elegance of a bygone era’s rail dining, yet with a contemporary focus on quality and flavor. This makes The Wolf Lunch Train not just a meal, but a moving celebration of local ingredients and timeless style.
Boone itself, nestled in central Iowa, provides a welcoming gateway. Visitors can complement their train adventure by exploring the city’s historic districts, local artisan shops, or nearby parks. The journey on the Wolf Lunch Train stands out in the region for its unique blend of heritage, nature, and gastronomy. It provides a break from the everyday – a chance to relax, savor, and soak in panoramic views while seated on vintage railcars that whisper stories through their polished wood and gleaming brass.
For those seeking an authentic yet comfortable outdoor experience with an educational and scenic twist, this train ride is a standout. The Wolf Lunch Train captures the spirit of Iowa’s heartland by combining the romance of rail travel with the tangible beauty of the Des Moines River Valley, appealing equally to train enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone eager to experience a slice of Americana on the rails.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
A concise sequence of boarding, onboard dining, bridge crossings, and return that compose the roughly 2.5-hour round trip.
Boone depot — boarding
Passengers board at the Boone depot at 11:00 am to begin the lunch excursion.
Onboard lunch through the Des Moines River Valley
Lunch service takes place while the train moves through the Des Moines River Valley, allowing guests to dine while taking in rolling river views.
Bass Point Creek High Bridge and Des Moines River Bridge
The train crosses the 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Bridge as well as the Des Moines River Bridge—two of the route's most dramatic vantage points.
Boone depot — return
The train returns to the Boone depot, arriving by approximately 1:30 pm to complete the round trip.
Note: strollers and car seats are not permitted aboard the train (storage is available at the depot); pets, comfort, and therapy animals are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited—plan accordingly.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
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.
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.
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.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
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.
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.
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.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:57.911Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.