Ride the First Class Lunch Train through the Royal Gorge!

Imagine savoring a three-course meal while gliding through one of Colorado’s most breathtaking natural wonders. That’s exactly what the First Class Lunch Train offers—an elegant, scenic journey paired with gourmet dining. While we haven’t personally experienced it, we’ve gathered plenty of insights and reviews to help you decide if this is the right trip for you.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Royal Gorge from the comfort of a well-appointed train, along with a thoughtfully curated meal that starts with a glass of sparkling wine. Plus, the open-air car provides a chance to soak in the scenery up close, making it a memorable outing. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that the experience is somewhat structured and priced at over $200 per person, which might seem steep for some travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a combination of scenic beauty, good food, and a touch of luxury. It’s ideal for couples celebrating special occasions, families, or train enthusiasts craving a uniquely Colorado experience. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with a gourmet touch, this ride could fit the bill—but if you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping excursion or a highly active day, you might prefer other options.

Key Points

• The journey lasts about 1 hour 50 minutes, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery.
• The gourmet three-course meal includes a choice of entrees, starting with sparkling wine and ending with a chef’s dessert.
• The train offers spectacular views of the Royal Gorge and the iconic bridge from both inside and outside the open-air car.
• The experience is priced around $214, which reflects both the luxury and the exclusive scenery.
• Reviews highlight friendly, attentive staff and breathtaking vistas, though some mention the train’s condition and window cleanliness.
• The train departs from Canon City Santa Fe Depot at 12:30 pm, making it a perfect midday outing.
• The tour includes an additional $10 Historic Preservation Fee, but drinks and extras outside the meal are extra.
• Limited to 4 travelers per booking, emphasizing an intimate, personalized experience.
• Cancellations are non-refundable, so planning ahead is essential.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point and Timing:
Your adventure begins at the Canon City Santa Fe Depot at 12:30 pm. Once aboard, you’ll settle into your assigned seat in a spacious First Class dining car. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet comfortable, with attentive service ready to make your meal memorable. The trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, during which you’ll traverse the scenic Colorado landscape with a highlight—the Royal Gorge itself.

Gourmet Dining Experience:
The meal kicks off with a glass of sparkling wine, setting a celebratory tone. This is followed by a fresh salad and warm French rolls with butter. For the main course, you’ll choose from options like Chicken Marsala, Buffalo Short Rib, Vegetarian Chef’s Choice, or Atlantic Salmon. The chef’s dessert wraps up a satisfying, sophisticated meal, served with the convenience of your table. The seating is at tables of four, which means you might find yourself sharing a table with fellow travelers, adding a social element to the experience.

Open-Air Car and Views:
No trip through the Royal Gorge would be complete without venturing outside. You can visit the open-air car anytime during the ride to get unobstructed views of the canyon walls, the river below, and the legendary Royal Gorge Bridge towering over 1,000 feet above. Several reviews sing praises about the spectacular scenery, with some even mentioning sightings of big horn sheep and bald eagles.

Scenic Highlights & Photo Opportunities:
The train’s route takes you deep into the gorge, providing ample opportunities for photos and awe. The views from the open-air car, especially overlooking the bridge, are considered a highlight—viewers say the experience makes for fantastic photo ops. Some reviews mention that the train proceeds forward for about an hour, then reverses, which may lead to seeing the same scenery twice, potentially reducing the novelty on a second visit.

Post-Trip and Overall Experience:
After the journey, you’ll return to the depot, with the option to explore the gift shop or local area. While many reviews praise the friendly staff and spectacular scenery, some mention the train’s condition and window cleanliness as minor drawbacks. The overall experience seems to blend luxury, scenic beauty, and hospitality, with reviewers frequently highlighting the attentive service and great views.

Authentic Voices from the Reviews

Many travelers rave about the professional service and the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer noted, “The views were amazing! Staff were all wonderful, and Hubie was by far the best.” Another called it “a first-rate experience from beginning to end,” praising the champagne, attentive waiter, and exclusive feel.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some mention that the train’s condition is less than perfect, with a few citing dirty windows and outdated cars. One reviewer described the cars as “in bad condition, dirty, with Gorilla tape used to fix the carpet,” which could detract from the otherwise elegant vibe.

Pricing is another point of contention. While many see the $213.80 per person as reflective of the luxury and unique views, others feel it’s steep, especially given some reports of the cars’ condition and the additional cost for drinks and extras. Still, many agree that the value for the experience—scenic views, gourmet meal, intimate setting—is worth the cost for those seeking a special day.

The Fine Print: Practical Details

Price & Value:
At just under $215, this experience offers a combination of scenic grandeur and fine dining that’s hard to match. For travelers who value the exclusivity of a small group (max 4 per booking) and the luxury of a First Class meal, the cost aligns with what you get: good food, remarkable views, and excellent service.

Duration & Timing:
The approximately 1 hour 50-minute ride makes it manageable for a midday trip, especially since it departs at 12:30 pm. This timing allows for a relaxing lunch and a scenic journey without feeling rushed.

Inclusions & Extras:
The tour includes the three-course meal and a glass of sparkling wine. An additional $10 Historic Preservation Fee applies. Drinks outside the meal are extra, and gratuities aren’t included—so account for tipping if you’re pleased with the service.

Meeting Point & Accessibility:
The departure is at the Canon City Santa Fe Depot. Service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate. The limited group size enhances the experience but means booking well in advance is recommended—on average, bookings are made about 39 days ahead.

Weather & Cancellations:
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. Remember, this is a non-refundable experience—so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love scenic train rides combined with gourmet dining and are looking for a special day out, this trip ticks those boxes. It’s particularly appealing to couples celebrating anniversaries, families wanting a memorable travel experience, or anyone with an eye for spectacular landscapes.

However, if you prioritize super high-end vehicle condition or want a more active or adventurous outing, you might want to explore other options. Also, those sensitive to price or window cleanliness might have reservations, but overall, the experience offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and refined comfort.

The Sum Up

The First Class Lunch Train through the Royal Gorge presents an elegant way to experience Colorado’s majestic landscape. With gourmet food, spectacular panoramic views, and personalized service, it offers a memorable outing for those willing to invest in a luxurious journey. The open-air car enhances the experience, allowing you to truly connect with the breathtaking scenery, while the gourmet meal elevates the ride from simply scenic to truly special.

Despite some criticisms about the train’s condition and the cost, many travelers regard this as a worthwhile splurge—a chance to enjoy world-class vistas from the comfort of a well-appointed train car. It’s particularly suited for romantic getaways, milestone celebrations, or scenic enthusiasts who want a touch of luxury in their Colorado adventure.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and indulgent experience with expert service and unforgettable views, this train ride could be just the ticket. Just remember to book in advance, dress comfortably, and bring your camera—this journey promises to be a highlight of your Colorado trip.

FAQ

How long is the train ride?
The journey lasts approximately 1 hour 50 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and your meal.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a gourmet three-course meal (starting with sparkling wine, salad, French rolls, your choice of entrée, and dessert) and the scenic train ride. There’s also a $10 Historic Preservation Fee.

Are drinks or extras included?
No, additional drinks beyond the included wine and any extras are extra. Gratuity is not included either.

Where does the tour start?
The departure point is the Canon City Santa Fe Depot at 12:30 pm.

Can I visit the open-air car during the trip?
Yes, you can visit the open-air car at any time during the journey to get unobstructed views of the Royal Gorge and the bridge.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but with a maximum of four guests per booking, it’s tailored more for smaller groups—families with children should check if the small group size aligns with their needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a train ride and outdoor conditions if visiting the open-air car.

Is the train condition a concern?
Some reviews mention that the cars are in less than perfect condition, with dirty windows and repairs like Gorilla tape. While many find the scenery and service make up for it, it’s worth being aware.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable, so plan carefully before booking.

This detailed review aims to give you all the insights you need to decide if the Royal Gorge First Class Lunch Train fits your travel style. Whether you’re in it for the scenery, the food, or the experience, it offers a distinctive way to see Colorado’s iconic landscape—just be sure to book ahead and prepare for a scenic adventure you’re unlikely to forget.