James Carter Senior News Editor

Staunton, VA – A new experience is rolling into the Shenandoah Valley, combining the charm of a vintage rail journey with the sophisticated flavors of American bourbon. The Virginia Scenic Railway has launched “Bourbon & BBQ,” a unique tasting event designed for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and those simply seeking a novel adventure. The excursion offers a roundtrip rail journey through the Central Piedmont region, paired with curated bourbon tastings and specially crafted barbeque pairings.

The Virginia Scenic Railway, which began operations last summer, is quickly becoming a popular attraction, offering a rare opportunity for scenic train travel within the state. According to Visit Shenandoah, it is currently the only regularly scheduled tourist train in Virginia. The “Bourbon & BBQ” event builds on this momentum, offering a distinctive experience that blends local flavor with a growing interest in craft spirits.

The experience, priced at approximately $158 per person, includes tastings of four specially chosen bourbons, each accompanied by a carefully crafted BBQ board designed to enhance the tasting experience. An onboard bourbon expert guides participants through the nuances of each spirit, sharing insights into the distillation process, flavor profiles, and the history of the distilleries involved. Passengers are seated at their own private tables, with the option to request seating with guests who have booked separately.

“Bourbon & BBQ showcases a variety of different bourbon, giving you the chance to discover the personalities, creativity, and craftsmanship that make bourbon so unique,” according to promotional materials. From bold, barrel-aged flavors to more subtle notes, the event aims to provide a diverse and educational tasting experience. The railway emphasizes a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for couples, friends, and anyone interested in exploring the world of bourbon.

What to Expect on the Bourbon & BBQ Excursion

• The Journey: A roundtrip rail excursion through the scenic Central Piedmont region.
• The Spirits: Tastings of four carefully selected bourbons from distilleries across the United States.
• The Pairing: A curated BBQ board designed to complement each bourbon’s flavor profile.
• The Expertise: Guidance from an onboard bourbon specialist providing insights into distillation and tasting notes.
• The Atmosphere: A relaxed and welcoming environment for bourbon lovers of all levels.

The Buckingham Branch Railroad, which operates the Virginia Scenic Railway, has been lauded for its contribution to the local economy. Jimmy Baird, director of the Piedmont Railroader, a railroad enthusiast group, noted that scenic trains “stay in local hotels. They buy things in local shops… and eat at local restaurants,” as reported by Ashburn Magazine. The railway’s president, Steve Powell, has turned a lifelong passion for trains into a thriving tourism venture.

Demand and Reservations

Seats for the “Bourbon & BBQ” experience are limited and tend to sell out quickly, according to event organizers. Advance ticket purchase is required to secure a spot. The railway encourages guests who wish to be seated with others who have booked separately to indicate this in the comments section of their reservation.

The Virginia Scenic Railway is accessible via Amtrak, with a station in Staunton, making it a convenient destination for travelers from across the region. Visit Shenandoah too notes access via stations in Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Washington D.C., Harpers Ferry, and Martinsburg, West Virginia.

As the Virginia Scenic Railway continues to expand its offerings, the “Bourbon & BBQ” event represents a significant addition to the region’s tourism landscape. The railway is expected to announce additional themed excursions in the coming months, further solidifying its position as a premier destination for scenic rail travel. The success of this event will likely influence future offerings and demonstrate the growing demand for unique, experiential tourism opportunities in the Shenandoah Valley.

Share your thoughts on this exciting new experience and let us understand if you’ve had a chance to ride the rails with the Virginia Scenic Railway!

Latest York City is bracing for the impact of another severe winter storm, raising urgent concerns for the safety of its substantial homeless population. As temperatures plummet and conditions deteriorate, city officials are scrambling to provide shelter and resources, whereas advocates emphasize the ongoing challenges of reaching those most vulnerable. The approaching storm arrives as the city continues to grapple with the aftermath of recent severe weather events that tragically claimed at least 16 lives, according to reports.

The immediate threat to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness is amplified by limited shelter capacity and the difficulties of encouraging individuals to seek refuge from the elements. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has been actively communicating with residents through social media and public appearances, urging preparedness and highlighting city services. However, his efforts have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding a customized Carhartt jacket he’s been prominently displaying during these outreach efforts, sparking debate about priorities amidst a crisis. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of those without stable housing during this dangerous weather.

Storm Threatens Vulnerable New Yorkers

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for heavy snowfall, strong winds and dangerously low temperatures across the region. These conditions pose a life-threatening risk to individuals exposed to the elements for extended periods. Outreach teams from the city’s Department of Homeless Services and various non-profit organizations are working to connect with people living on the streets, in parks, and in other unsheltered locations. These teams are distributing blankets, warm clothing, and information about available shelter options. However, reaching everyone in need remains a significant hurdle.

The New York Post reported that the death toll from recent winter storms has reached 16, underscoring the severity of the situation. The city is working to expand shelter capacity, but advocates point to systemic issues that contribute to homelessness, including a lack of affordable housing and inadequate mental health services. The current storm is expected to exacerbate these challenges, potentially overwhelming existing resources.

Mayor Mamdani’s Outreach and Controversy

Mayor Mamdani has been actively using social media to disseminate information about the storm and available resources. He has posted videos of himself wearing a custom Carhartt jacket, designed by a Brooklyn shop, while urging New Yorkers to grab precautions. Spectrum News NY1 detailed the story behind the jacket, noting its unique design and local origins. However, this outreach has been met with criticism, with some questioning the appropriateness of focusing on fashion during a crisis. The New York Post reported that Mamdani has “ripped” for the customized jacket, with critics suggesting it demonstrates a disconnect from the realities faced by those struggling with homelessness.

Despite the criticism, supporters of the mayor argue that his visibility and proactive communication are essential during emergencies. Harper’s BAZAAR highlighted Mamdani’s understanding of “the power of good merch,” suggesting the jacket is a strategic communication tool. The mayor’s office has not directly addressed the controversy, but continues to emphasize its commitment to protecting all New Yorkers during the storm.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook

The challenges facing New York City’s homeless population are complex, and multifaceted. Beyond the immediate threat of severe weather, individuals experiencing homelessness often face barriers to accessing healthcare, employment, and permanent housing. Advocates continue to call for increased investment in affordable housing, mental health services, and supportive programs to address the root causes of homelessness.

As the storm approaches, the city is focused on providing immediate relief and ensuring the safety of its most vulnerable residents. However, the long-term solution requires a sustained commitment to addressing the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness. The coming days will be critical in assessing the storm’s impact and determining the extent of the support needed to facilitate those affected.

The situation remains fluid, and Archyde.com will continue to provide updates as they become available. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.