The West was immortalized by Charles M. Russell, America’s Cowboy Artist. Much of his revered work features landscapes in and around Central Montana, where Charlie first got his start as a wrangler. Today one can experience Central Montana on a 56- mile round-trip journey on the Charlie Russell Chew Choo (CRCC), a dinner train as deeply connected to the history of Central Montana as its namesake.
The CRCC is proud to delve into the rich history of the American West, enabling travelers to move beyond superficial sightseeing and cultivate a more meaningful and insightful journey, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s diverse heritage and its profound impact on the nation’s character.
The CRCC Dinner Train made its first run with two leased train cars on July 4, 1994. In 1996, the Lewistown Chamber bought the five cars still in use today.
There is an aura of romance to riding the rails. From the long-ago days when the railroads first started bringing settlers west, many Americans have had a love affair with trains. Perhaps that is why the CRCC Dinner Train that runs on summer weekends between Lewistown and Denton has gained so much popularity since it was first inaugurated. The run to Denton crosses wide-open prairie, mostly unspoiled by highways and power lines.
Some of the area looks much as it did when it inspired Charlie Russell. Guests can observe the expansive landscapes and vivid scenery, all while enjoying a prime rib dinner. Additionally, a guitarist provides musical entertainment, performing selections inspired by Montana as they move between the train cars.
During the return trip, the train stops for a staged robbery by actors who entertain guests and collect their 7-dollar bills.
The history of the American West holds significant importance for travelers due to its rich tapestry of events, cultures, and iconic figures that shaped the region and the nation as a whole. The westward expansion and
the concept of the frontier significantly influenced the development of American identity, individualism, and values like self-reliance and resilience.
A true Montana experience, the Charlie Russell Chew Choo Dinner Train is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, recognized by the Montana Department of Commerce as the 2025 Tourism Destination of the Year.