Instead of "dinner and a movie" for your next date night, how about dinner and games on a (simulated) train ride?
Game Train USA in Highlands Ranch combines a fun train simulator, an extensive selection of board games for all ages, a full bar with premium cocktails and specialty drinks, and delicious food. In addition to regular dining hours, they offer special events such as Summer Weekly Trivia nights and Murder Mystery Dinners.
From the Steampunk decor in the "train station" to "riding the rails" along various routes to choosing a game from more than 700 options, a visit to Game Train is a truly unique experience.
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According to a report by the National Marriage Project, "husbands and wives who have frequent date nights were significantly more likely to report being 'very happy' in their marriages, compared to those who did not."
SHE SAID: Why I Love Date Night at Game Train USA
I first heard about Game Train USA when they were nominated for "Best New Business" several years ago, and I thought it was a brilliant idea! I love Game Night at home with family or friends, but having access to a library of games we can try out sounded like so much fun. Add a train ride through the countryside (which I've never done IRL) and delicious food, and I'm sold!
I adored the ambiance and unique decor of the restaurant. The route out the "train window" was through the Rocky Mountains in autumn, so it was stunning and filled with our famous shimmering aspens. (If you are prone to motion sickness, you can select a table in the station.) The service was excellent; attentive without being intrusive. They have tabletop railroad crossing signs that you can raise when you are ready to order (food or games) or need assistance with gameplay.
The food was delicious! Along with a full bar (including specialty cocktails), the menu offers apps, a variety of pizzas, about a dozen sandwiches and entrees, and desserts. The Totchos appetizer (think nachos but on tater tots instead of chips) was to die for. I had one of the specials for dinner, and my husband ordered pizza. y wanted to try the Sticky Toffee Ginger Cake for dessert, but I was way too full, so next time, I think we'll have dessert first!
There are literally hundreds of games to choose from, but the "menu" is well organized. The games are first separated by skill level and then listed alphabetically with helpful tags like "family" or "trivia." We selected Hogwarts Battle because we are Harry Potter nerds and also because it was a cooperative game, which we thought would be better suited for a date. We liked it so much that we bought our own on the way out!
HE SAID: Why My Husband Loves Date Night at Game Train US
Right out of the gate, I'm going to confess that I'm an RPG nerd, so walking into Game Train made me feel like I was returning home. There is a large display of various games to your right as you walk in, and to your left is a selection of paint colors and game minis. I saw a few fighters and rogues and knew I'd found a place targeted at me and mine.
From there, we were escorted inside and seated at a table in the "dining car," where the "window" showed the Colorado landscape as we rolled past. Our waiter helped us select a game, explained the rules, took our order, and checked in on us periodically. The food was delicious (get the Totchos if they even slightly interest you, they're SOOO good).
Every time we had a question, someone was there to guide our game. We were checked on regularly to fill our water or other beverages. The environment was welcoming to all who enjoy time at the table with their favorite people.
All said, I had a fantastic time with my wife, was stuffed when I left, and have every intention of returning to try out a new game — and a new entree. Gotta be real, though; I'll probably order the Totchos as an appetizer again!
Want to bring the family? Try the Conductor Family Special and get two pepperoni or cheese pizzas plus a family-style salad for $49.95.
About the Owners of Game Train USA
Kevin and Jo Ellen Christian opened Game Train USA in 2019 as a destination getaway restaurant, providing excellent food and drink and the best surroundings for people to gather, socialize, and play.
Kevin's primary career was in IT, and Jo Ellen founded a nonprofit counseling service called Healing Strides. They raised three children together and taught social dance lessons for over 20 years before opening Game Train USA. Playing board games with friends and family was a favorite shared pastime, and they are proud to bring people together at Game Train USA.
Game Train USA is a tribute to bygone days of parlor games, invention, and travel. The Victorian period is reflected in the train station decor and vintage train car simulation with motion and scenery effects.
Game Train USA
2690 E. County Line Rd., Suite E
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
(303) 797-9224
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