Raleigh, NC -- October is NC Beer Month, and this year the festivities will kick-off with a brand new year-round initiative presented by the NC Craft Brewers Guild and NC By Train: the NC Ale Trail by Rail. The NC Ale Trail by Rail will combine the ease of rail travel with a flavorful journey through North Carolina's diverse craft beer landscape.
“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. As community gathering hubs, our North Carolina breweries offer welcoming taproom and tasting experiences,” said Lisa Parker, Executive Director of the NC Craft Brewers Guild.
Running between Charlotte and Raleigh, riders may disembark at each of the stops along the route to tour the breweries and communities in each locale. NC Ale Trail By Rail designated stops are: Charlotte, Kannapolis, Salisbury, High Point, Greensboro, Burlington, Durham, Cary and Raleigh.
Whether you’re interested in a day trip, overnight getaway, weekend excursion, or longer adventure, the NC Ale Trail By Rail allows friends, families, or solo explorers, to easily access breweries and the vibrant communities in which they are located along the rail route.
“NC By Train has experienced record ridership the past two years and 2024 is 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 and support local businesses.”
Additionally, during NC Beer Month this October, the NC Ale Trail By Rail will be making a special stop at the North Carolina State Fair, happening October 18th through the 27th, 2024. At this year’s State Fair, don’t miss the NC Public House, located on the south side of Dorton Arena, facing the train stop. The NC Public House is where good times flow as freely as the NC craft beer and wine on tap. Treat yourself to the perfect pairing of daily beer and wine offerings with your fair food favorites!
Ready to embark on this beer-filled journey? Start planning your trip today by visiting drinkncbeer.org/nc-ale-trail-by-rail 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 for more details on their offerings, operation hours, and special events. NC Ale Trail by Rail specified breweries are located within five miles of the train stations, making it easy for passengers to disembark, sample local beers, and get back on the train for the next stop.
Get ready to discover North Carolina beer, one train stop at a time!
The NC Ale Trail by Rail is a partnership between the NC Craft Brewers Guild, NC By Train, and the following local destination marketing organizations: Visit Raleigh, Discover Durham, Visit Alamance, Visit Greensboro, Visit High Point, Visit Rowan County, Explore Cabarrus, Visit Charlotte.
For additional information contact:
Shannon Taylor Wilder, Communications + Events Manager
NC Craft Brewers Guild
Shannon Taylor | c. 919.522.9331