Grape Train Escapes
2025
Saturday Nights May 3 – September 13, 2025
Grape Train Escapes
Overview
Offered as an upgrade during the Saturday Starlight Tours, May through mid-September, several train cars are dedicated to the Grape Train Escape event. Regional purveyors of fine Arizona wines, as well as worldwide vintners, showcase their award-winning vintages on the rails.
Start with Dining at the Depot
Before boarding the train, guests may purchase a scratch-made meal to enjoy on the shaded pavilion or carry aboard the train. Beer, wine and spirits-free beverages also may be purchased at the pavilion beverage bar to be savored while dining prior to boarding.
Explore the Boxcar Gift Store and John Bell Museum
Before you board for an unforgettable time on the rails, don’t miss the chance to pick up a keepsake at the Boxcar Gift Store. From designer apparel and home goods to exclusive local art, books and handcrafted jewelry, you’ll find the perfect memento that will capture the magic of your adventure.
The John Bell Museum, located in a historic box car, is chock full of the history of the railroad in Clarkdale, as well as neighboring communities that were built to support the copper mines that fueled the Industrial Revolution. With fascinating artifacts and local lore, the museum is a great starting point. A walk along the boarding platform will take you to an array of junior billboards that are rich with the people and wildlife that have imprinted the Verde Valley and the Canyon.
Enjoy a Scenic Train Ride
On the Great Train Escapes, passengers bask in the Canyon’s high desert beauty, experiencing a spectacular blend of light and color ranging from vivid sunlight to a rich sunset, from twinkly twilight to magnificent stargazing and moonglow. Paired with an award-winning wine in hand and a charcuterie tray at one’s fingertips, a Grape Train Escape takes one on a sensory adventure suitable for every palate.
Grape Train Escapes
Tickets & Event Details
Your Ticket Includes:
- Train ticket in comfortable living room-style coach with access to open-air viewing car
- Charcuterie box of gourmet meats and cheeses, crackers, fruit, brownie bites
- Complimentary Champagne or sparkling cider toast to the adventure ahead
- Four 4-ounce tastings of wine variations
- Souvenir stemless wine glass with etched logo
- Souvenir "Grapevine" booklet with wine history, tasting notes and terminology
Price: $175.00 per person (ages 21+)
Event Details:
- 5:30 p.m. Train Departure
- Café, museum and gift store open at 3:30 p.m.
- Pavilion bar opens at 3:30 p.m.
- Train boards at 5:15 p.m.
- Train Ride Duration: 4 Hours
- 2025 Grape Train Escape Dates
- May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- June 7, 14, 21, 28
- July 5, 12, 19, 26
- August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- September 6, 13
Photo Gallery
Grape Train Escapes FAQs
What time should I arrive for the Grape Train Escape?
We recommend arriving at the depot 2 hours prior to train departure to allow time to enjoy dining at the Railroad’s Copper Spike Café, peruse the Boxcar Gift Store and sip on a glass of wine on the pavilion. The café, pavilion bar, museum and gift shop are closed when evening trains return.
Are non-alcoholic beverages available at the event?
Non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the depot and aboard the train.
Do you have to be 21+ to ride the train during this event?
Yes. As the event takes place in specific wine-tasting event cars, all passengers must be 21 or older and have a state ID reflecting this status.
