Do you need a girl’s weekend, or a guy’s getaway or even a truly unique bucket list trip?Traveling overnight on a train and going to the Kentucky Derby are two popular items on bucket lists everywhere and Pullman Rail Journeys offers an exclusive trip planned this May to Louisville. And by ‘exclusive’, we mean there are only 8 beds available!
If you haven’t experienced the old southern charm of the Kentucky Derby, traveling by private rail car like a rail baron gives new meaning to VIP. The complete experience includes: round trip rail travel from Chicago to Louisville aboard a restored Pullman sleeping car, all meals and beverages en route aboard the train (including those pre-Derby Mint Juleps), a bourbon tasting and private city tour and access to top museums in Louisville as well as the paramount events of your trip – VIP passes to the Kentucky Oaks Race and the Kentucky Derby.
For the first time, Pullman is offering this trip to stylish travelers as it connects to a special caravan of exquisite private rail cars right into downtown Louisville’s Union Station, which hasn’t seen regular train service in over a decade. Guests will even call the rail car home while in Louisville–the rail car serves as your private hotel, as was the custom on Pullman cars bringing Derby-goers to Louisville until the 1960s.
This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to stay in the shadow of a 130 year old historic train station. In the 1920’s, it served as the gateway for most people attending the Kentucky Derby and was a place of celebration as travelers from near and far arrived for the granddaddy of horse racing and the most exciting two minutes in sports.
Photo courtesy of TrippingBlonde.com
If you’re thinking of making it a girl’s weekend, shopping for Derby attire has probably already crossed your mind. Devoted Derby attendees take fashion very seriously and while there are no hard and fast rules about dress, there are traditions one simply does not trifle with – namely, the headwear. Fashion experts recommend picking your outfit first and then selecting the hat to suit your attire. A popular recent trend has been fascinators – a smaller hat but just as stylish.
Or maybe it’s a gents’ weekend? While some may not admit it, men have just as much fun with the attire as the ladies. Most wear an eye-catching trouser in a pastel color and express individuality with shirt patterns. Typically, the look is pulled together with a blazer in a classic navy or a chalk stripe. As for neckwear, you can’t go wrong with a timeless bow tie – iconic at the Derby.
Now that the scene has been set for the Derby experience, the mode of travel is equally as nostalgic and stylish. Guests will be traveling aboard the Caritas sleeping car. The Caritas is a premier Art Deco-style rail car built in 1948 by the Pullman Company. This sleek and streamlined mid-century work of art has been updated with modern technology and comfort. Consider it a “cruise ship on wheels” with spacious sleeping cabins, a full kitchen for your made-to-order meals, full bar, intimate dining area, modern shower facilities and plush seating in the lounge with picture windows to take in the passing landscape.
“Caritas” is Latin for “charity”, or more specifically, “love of humankind”. Stepping aboard this train instantly ensconces guests in comfort and care. The car has been lovingly restored to provide true fans of rail travel and those enchanted by the history and romance of trains with unforgettable memories.
Tickets are on sale now and are very limited. Reservations aboard the Caritas may be made online at www.TravelPullman.com. Guests may also call 888-978-5563 to speak with an agent who will answer questions and personally tend to reservations whether for a couple or a group of friends. See you in Louisville!
This post was sponsored by Pullman Rail Journeys.