Wilmington And Western Railroad In Delaware Is Actually A Restaurant And You'll Want To Visit

It was chartered in 1867 to transport goods between Red Clay Creek and the Port of Wilmington, and opened to passenger service 1872. It didn't last long, though. Poor management lead to it closing in 1877, but then it was reorganized into the profitable Delaware Western Railroad. This was bought by B&O Railroad in the 1880s, and for a time, was the most profitable branch of the railroad giant. After the demolition of the Broad Run Trestle and a reduction in passenger traffic following World War II, the line was shortened to Hockessin, Del., in the late 1950s. In the mid-1960s, Historic Red Clay Valley Inc., (HRCV) was formed and began leasing the track for tourist excursions, and in August of 1982, the remaining 10.2 miles of the railroad were purchased by HRCV. Many of the historic bridges were destroyed by Hurricane Floyd, and it took years to refurbish the tracks that carried this historic trail, Finally, in 2007 locomotive 98, triumphantly entered Hockessin, Del., for the first time in years, and the railroad was reborn.

They've got a fleet of Steam Locomotives from the early 1900s, Diesel locomotives, the incredible Doodlebug (part locomotive, part passenger coach), regular passenger cars and cabooses. If you're interested in train history, the W&W is your dream come true.

Wilmington and Western Railroad turns 50 this year, and they have been celebrating all year! The cumulative event is an elegant dinner aboard their vintage steam train. You'll travel the entire length of the railroad - from the CSX Interchange at milepost zero to downtown Hockessin. When you get to Hockessin, the train will continue another half mile to the end-of-track at Valley Road. This is "rare mileage," and you'll be the first passengers to travel the entire length of track since the 1950s! It's a BYOB event and you'll also receive a commemorative gift to honor your journey. Of course, the experience wouldn't be complete if you didn't run the chance of sitting with other guests, just like in the old dining cars of vintage trains! The menu reads like it's from one of the best restaurants in the state, and the catering by Appleton will never disappoint. You'll start off with an appetizer spread that'll leave your tastebuds wondering what could possibly be next: fresh fruit, port wine cheese spread and gourmet crackers, and unbelievable Cristfield crab dip. Then, choose: do you want filet mignon, shrimp scampi, or chicken parmesan? Sides include fresh vegetables or au gratin potatoes, and of course, salad, rolls and dessert are included. The Anniversary Dinner Train is booking quickly, so make your reservation today and mark the date on your calendar.

The railroad's vintage 1929 car will take you from station to the front of either the Hunter's Den Restaurant in Marshallton or the Back Burner Restaurant in Hockessin. The train fare includes your entree and dessert at the restaurant, while hors d'oeuvres are served on board to get you started. Entrees at Hunter's Den are served with salad & bread, as well as any non-alcoholic beverages (plus that dessert!). There are many entrees to choose from, including baked salmon, chicken alfredo, or a delicious 10oz ribeye. Back Burner offers you free range chicken, pan fried salmon, pork tenderloin or a grilled sirloin (pictured above). Vegetarian options are available, too - you'll get the full menu selections when you call to make your reservations. These trails run on limited dates for the rest of the year (Back Burner: September 8, November 10, December 8; Hunter's Den: October 11, December 6 ) and cost between $26-$68 depending on your age and which train you book.

Learn more about the Ride to Dine trail by visiting the event website.

There are so many events on the Wilmington and Western Railroad Calendar that you're sure to find something that catches your eye - and your tastebuds. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a trip back in time on the historic W&W Railroad.