Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad olong the lake
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Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

4.5
·657 reviews·Meredith, United States

A nostalgic train ride offering scenic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and themed dining experiences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Best foliage colors

CrowdMedium
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Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad olong the lake

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

Best Time

Fall mornings

Best foliage colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A nostalgic train ride offering scenic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and themed dining experiences.

4.5
(657 reviews)

"A wonderful experience with beautiful scenery and friendly staff, highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Dinner Trains Early

These popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for the Winnipesaukee dinner train well in advance.

💺 Choose Your Seat Wisely

The train travels out and back. Consider switching seats on the return for different views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Winnipesaukee Views

Lake Winnipesaukee Views

Along the route

Enjoy picturesque glimpses of Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay, especially during foliage season.

Themed Dinner Trains

Themed Dinner Trains

Onboard dining cars

Experience a unique dining adventure with options like the popular Turkey Dinner Train.

Ashland Railroad Station & Museum

Ashland Railroad Station & Museum

Ashland, NH

A charming stop offering a glimpse into railroad history with a small museum.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Scenery

While the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers beautiful views, the scenery can be obscured by trees for parts of the journey. Consider visiting during foliage season for the best visual experience. The train travels out and back, so you'll see the same views twice.

Book Ahead for Special Events

Popular events like the Turkey Dinner Train sell out quickly. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you're traveling with a group or during peak seasons. Check their schedule for themed rides.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Best foliage colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Special event dates
Why
Unique themed experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THE DETAILS 🚂🍁👇 The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad at Granite State Railway is the best way to see fall foliage in the Lakes Region. Fall rides run through late October & the foliage is starting to peak now! There is still lots of green - these next 2-3 weeks will be perfect. 📍 Boarding locations: • Meredith • Weirs Beach • Laconia ⏱️ Trip length • 1 - 2.5 hours depending on the route you choose...
@daveandjoce
4K likes • 60.3K views

🎯 Book Dinner Trains Early

These popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for the Winnipesaukee dinner train well in advance. Reddit

💺 Choose Your Seat Wisely

The train travels out and back. Consider switching seats on the return for different views. Reddit

#CapCut #trainride #newhampshire #winnipisauke #fallmoments #fyp
@gloriamosos
26 likes • 491 views
reddit.com

Trains?

🌳 Scenery Varies

Trees can obscure views. Foliage season offers the most vibrant scenery. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Can Be Limited

Arrive early, especially if traveling by bus, as parking spots are limited. Reddit

reddit.com

Lake Winnipesaukee Honeymoon Things to Do

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Dinner Trains Early

These popular events sell out fast! Secure your spot for the Winnipesaukee dinner train well in advance. Reddit

💺 Choose Your Seat Wisely

The train travels out and back. Consider switching seats on the return for different views. Reddit

🌳 Scenery Varies

Trees can obscure views. Foliage season offers the most vibrant scenery. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Can Be Limited

Arrive early, especially if traveling by bus, as parking spots are limited. Reddit

🚻 Bathroom Lines

Be prepared for potential lines at the 3 bathroom stalls; port-a-potties are available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(657 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for its friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere, with many enjoying the scenic views, especially during foliage season. The themed dinner trains are a popular draw, though the food quality receives mixed reviews. Some find the scenery can be limited by trees, and the out-and-back route is a point of note.

"It was a wonderful experience! Beautiful scenery. Friendly and helpful staff. Our coach was heated which felt really good on that chilly morning. The lunch buffet was delicious. The breif stop at the Ashland Railroad station and museum was an extra special treat. Highly recommended!"

Jim Phillips

"Well, I don't know what I was expecting, but maybe my hopes were a bit high. The people who work here are fantastic! Friendly, informative, and helpful. The train ride/scenery was a bit of a let down. More than half the time there wasn't much to see due to trees/woods/etc. You'll see more of Paugus Bay than Lake Winnipesaukee (or at least it feels that way). The train probably goes about 5-7mph. Not very fast. It goes down one side for about an hour. Stops, and then goes back up. It doesn't go around the lake or anything like that. The first class ticket may not be worth it unless it's really hot or really cold out. We were in it and the air conditioning was helpful with temps in the 90's and dew point over 70, but brought a lot of diesel fumes into the car. The windows do NOT open in the first class car. Maybe I'm just a bit too sensitive to smells. It's a fine attraction, but it'd be fine if you skipped it too. You won't be missing much."

Michael Nick

"We loved our train ride along the scenic Winnipesaukee Lake. The sunny skies and moderate temperatures added to the ambiance of a delightful two hour train ride.

Parking is quite limited for Individual travellers when there are busses full of tourists."

Fred Pineau

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Relaxing train ride
Scenic lake views (seasonal)

What People Dislike

Scenery obscured by trees
Mixed food quality
Out-and-back route

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is located in Meredith, New Hampshire. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the station. For those coming from Boston, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited, especially when tour buses are present. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to the railroad are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the station. Reddit

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad route travels along the edge of Lake Winnipesaukee, offering views of Paugus Bay and the surrounding New Hampshire landscape. The train travels out for about an hour, stops, and then returns. Reddit

The typical train ride is approximately two hours roundtrip, including a stop at the Ashland Railroad Station and Museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ride and seating class. Standard coach tickets are generally more affordable, while first-class tickets offer more amenities. It's best to check their official website for current pricing and options. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for themed rides like the Turkey Dinner Train, which often sell out. You can usually buy tickets online through their website. Reddit

Operating hours and days vary by season and specific train schedules. It's essential to check their official schedule for the most up-to-date information on departure times and available dates. Reddit

Yes, the railroad offers different seating options, including standard coach and first-class cars. First-class may offer more comfort and amenities, especially in extreme weather, but can also be more expensive. Reddit

Yes, tickets are generally required for all passengers, including children. Check the railroad's policy for age-specific ticketing and any potential discounts for younger passengers. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The scenery includes views of Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay, as well as wooded areas. While beautiful, some visitors note that trees can obscure the views for portions of the ride. The fall foliage season is particularly recommended for the best visual experience. Reddit

Yes, many families find the train ride enjoyable for children. It offers a unique experience and a chance to see the landscape. However, the slow speed and out-and-back nature might not hold the attention of very young children for the entire duration. Reddit

The stop at Ashland includes a visit to the Railroad Station and Museum. It's a brief but interesting opportunity to learn more about local railroad history. Reddit

Yes, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers options for private rentals, including cabooses, which can be a unique experience for groups or special occasions. Reddit

Wi-Fi is typically not available on the train. Cell service can be spotty, especially in more remote sections of the route. It's best to download any necessary information or entertainment beforehand. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The railroad offers various dining experiences, most notably the Winnipesaukee dinner train, which often features a turkey dinner. Other rides may offer snacks or light refreshments for purchase. Reddit

Reviews for the dinner train are mixed. While many enjoy the experience and specific dishes like the apple crisp dessert, some find the main courses, like the turkey and stuffing, to be average or not to their taste. Reddit

Policies on bringing outside food and drinks can vary. It's advisable to check with the railroad directly before your trip to confirm their policy. Reddit

For themed dinner trains, it's best to inquire about dietary accommodations when booking. Options may be limited, so advance notice is crucial. Reddit

The Turkey Dinner Train typically includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, and dessert like apple crisp. Some guests found the stuffing to be sweet and the rolls unremarkable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are when the train is running along the edge of Lake Winnipesaukee, especially during the fall foliage season. The stop at Ashland also offers chances for historical train photos. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos from your seat. However, in first-class cars, the windows do not open, which might affect photo quality due to reflections. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Morning rides, especially during the fall, can offer beautiful light and vibrant foliage. Midday can be bright, and afternoon light might be softer. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the scenery. If you're interested in capturing details of the train itself, a zoom lens can be helpful. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad can be a fun outing for families. The novelty of riding a train is often a hit with children, offering a different kind of adventure. The slow pace allows kids to take in the surroundings without feeling rushed. The stop at the Ashland Railroad Station and Museum provides a brief educational element. However, be mindful that the train travels out and back, so the scenery is seen twice, and the slow speed might test the patience of very young children for the full two hours. Reddit

Tips for families: Consider booking a standard coach seat for more flexibility. Pack some quiet activities or snacks (if permitted) to keep little ones entertained. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid last-minute rushes to the restrooms, as lines can form. Reddit

🚂 Train Enthusiasts

For those who love trains, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers a nostalgic journey and a chance to experience a piece of operational railroad history. The opportunity to ride vintage coaches and see the locomotive up close is a significant draw. The slow speed allows for a good appreciation of the train's mechanics and the rhythm of the rails. Reddit

Tips for enthusiasts: Look into the different types of cars available, as some may offer a more authentic or comfortable experience. The Ashland Railroad Station and Museum stop is a must-see for its historical context. Consider inquiring about any special events or excursions that might feature different locomotives or rolling stock. Reddit

🍂 Foliage Seekers

If your primary goal is to witness the stunning autumn colors of New Hampshire, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad during foliage season is a fantastic choice. The route offers picturesque views of the changing leaves, especially along the edges of Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay. The slow, steady pace of the train allows for ample opportunity to soak in the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Reddit

Tips for foliage seekers: Book your tickets well in advance, as fall excursions are extremely popular. Aim for a morning ride when the light is often softer and the colors are at their peak. Dress in layers, as New Hampshire autumn weather can be unpredictable. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Train Route and Experience

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers a unique journey through the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. The train operates on a simple out-and-back route, meaning it travels for about an hour in one direction, stops, and then reverses its course back to the starting station. This design ensures that passengers get to experience the same scenery from a different perspective on the return trip. While the route offers glimpses of Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay, it's important to note that significant portions of the journey are through wooded areas, which can sometimes obscure the water views. Reddit

Travelers often highlight the friendly and helpful staff as a major positive aspect of the experience. The train itself is a step back in time, appealing to train enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing, nostalgic ride. The speed is generally slow, contributing to the relaxed atmosphere. The stop at the Ashland Railroad Station and Museum provides a brief but interesting interlude, offering a chance to explore a bit of local railroad history. Reddit

For those seeking the most picturesque views, visiting during the fall foliage season is highly recommended. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves against the backdrop of the lake and woods create a stunning visual spectacle. However, be aware that the experience can be impacted by weather; heated cars are available for chilly mornings, and air conditioning is provided in warmer months, though some have noted diesel fumes can enter first-class cars when the AC is running. TikTok

Dining on the Rails: Themed Trains and Meals

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is known for its themed dining experiences, with the Turkey Dinner Train being a particular draw. This special event offers passengers a full meal served onboard as the train traverses the scenic route. The menu typically includes roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, and dessert, often an apple crisp. While many guests enjoy the festive atmosphere and the dessert, reviews on the main meal components are varied. Some find the stuffing to be overly sweet, and the rolls to be standard. Reddit

Beyond the Turkey Dinner Train, other special excursions might offer different meal options or snacks for purchase. It's crucial to check the specific schedule and offerings for the date of your visit, as not all rides include a meal. For those with dietary restrictions or specific preferences, it's advisable to contact the railroad in advance to inquire about available accommodations. Bringing your own food and beverages might be restricted, so confirming their policy is recommended. Reddit

The dining experience is part of the overall charm of a scenic train ride, offering a unique way to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights. However, managing expectations regarding the culinary aspect is key, as the primary draw for many remains the train journey and the scenery. Reddit

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