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Cheers! Hop onto a Train to Explore Breweries in N.C.

​A couple enjoys drinks at a brewery in Greensboro while a Carolinian train passes in the background.​

​RALEIGH – NC By Train is partnering with the N.C. Craft Brewers Guild to launch a new partnership called the N.C. Ale Trail by Rail.

The N.C. Ale Trail by Rail combines the ease of rail travel with the exploration of North Carolina's diverse craft beer scene.

“NC By Train has experienced record ridership the past two years, and 2024 has been no different," said Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division director. “This partnership is a great opportunity to encourage riders to explore everything North Carolina has to offer including the vibrant craft brewery market while supporting local businesses."

Riders can take the Piedmont and Carolinian trains and get off in communities along the route to tour the breweries and sight see in the cities and towns. NC Ale Trail By Rail's designated stops include Charlotte, Kannapolis, Salisbury, High Point, Greensboro, Burlington, Durham, Cary and Raleigh.

“We are delighted to partner with NC By Train to introduce this new and novel way for visitors and residents alike to explore the craft breweries of North Carolina," said Lisa Parker, Executive Director of the NC Craft Brewers Guild. “As community gathering hubs, our North Carolina breweries offer welcoming taproom and tasting experiences."

Interested? Learn more at the N.C. Craft Brewers Guild website, where you'll find an interactive map, allowing visitors to explore brewery locations along the route and get direct links to each brewery's website. 

N.C. Ale Trail by Rail specified breweries are located within five miles of the train stations, making it easy for passengers to visit one location or multiple stops in a day.

Other Fall Stops

In addition to the launch of the N.C. Ale Trail by Rail partnership, NC By Train is getting you to all the places you want to be this fall with special stops at the N.C. State Fair in Raleigh from Oct. 18 – 27; the Lexington Barbeque Festival on Oct. 26; and earlier train trips to Charlotte on Sundays for this season’s Carolina Panthers’ 1 p.m. home games.

Visit NCByTrain.org to get more information, book your travel or learn about our everyday discounts.

The state’s passenger rail service is an easy, hassle-free way to travel. Taking NC By Train is an environmentally friendly and sustainable transportation choice that helps reduce congestion on the state’s highway system.

Follow NC By Train on social media at Twitter/X and Instagram @NC_By_Train and NC By Train on Facebook and LinkedIn.

***NCDOT***

9/18/2024 11:12 AM