The Sleepless in Seattle houseboat on Lake Union is an oft-requested stop. It's not exactly the Orient Express, but the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train definitely has its attractions for diners who crave a bit of nostalgia and adventure with their meal. Among the highlights of the excursion is when the train passes over Bellevue's Wilburton Trestle - at 102 feet high and 975 feet in length, the longest wooden trestle still in use in the Northwest. And it isn't just the scenery that travelers will remember. When you make your reservation for a ride, you choose one of four entrees.
Service is attentive without being overbearing.
Cocktails are available. If the meal and the gentle rocking of the coach don't put you to sleep, visit the Columbia Winery at the route's northern end. Take a 45-minute tour of the winery or simply retire to its tasting room for samples of fine Northwest vintages. And take that nap on the way back south. All rights reserved.