This Iowa Dinner Train Has Been Dormant For Years

Not so long ago, passengers could dine on the rails, as this dinner train was once a thriving destination. These days, it's abandoned and mostly a refuge for wild animals and vandals.

It appears this train isn't going anywhere anytime soon, as it's been parked in the same spot since 2005.

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The Northwestern Iowa Dinner Train

For a few short years, the Spirit of the Lakes Dinner Train rode its passengers between the tiny towns of Allendorf and Superior. Not only would those who rode on the train get dinner, but they would also get to ride the rails through the Iowa Great Lakes, as the train's course went straight through the Okoboji area.

The Dinner Train was once a part of the Union Pacific Railroad and operated between 2003 and 2005. Since it shut down operation, the train's passenger cars and dining car have been sitting on a side rail near the town of Superior.

Sadly, it will take a lot to get this caboose going again, as most of the tracks were upended years ago for spare parts.

If you still want fine dining on the rails though, you're in luck. The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad is still up and running and has plenty of upcoming train rides.

Check out the YouTube video below to see more of this abandoned Iowa dinner train.

Story Sources: WHO 13 Website, BSVRR Website