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Chocolate Lovers Festival

Today through February 19
Verde Canyon Railroad
Clarkdale

Chocolate-Covered History
 
         Celebrations call for chocolate and really big celebrations call for lots and lots of chocolate. Welcome to Verde Canyon Railroad Chocolate Lovers’ Train. Such a divine indulgence is always a special occasion but never more so than this year.
          In 2012, Verde Canyon Railroad turns 100 years old! That is truly a remarkable landmark, one worth celebrating in style. Of course, Verde Canyon Railroad does everything in style. On February 11 and 12, Verde Canyon Railroad will share the Centennial spotlight with the State of Arizona and the Town of Clarkdale.  Special guests will showcase area attractions, tours, monuments and parks.  Enjoy festive food and drinks while entertainers vie for your attention.
          On special days you want time to slow down so you can savor every delicious moment. Verde Canyon Railroad—a vintage train traveling over track laid a century ago—is in the business of timelessness. 
          To kick off a second century of service, the Chocolate Lovers’ Train rolls out of the depot, appropriately enough, on February 14. Valentine’s Day makes a delicious outing for sweethearts or anyone with a sweet tooth. The Chocolate Lovers’ Train continues through February 19.   
          Few foodstuffs hold us so tightly in their sway as chocolate. Cocoa butter melts at body temperature so the sensation of a chocolate morsel dissolving in a heavenly puddle on our tongue seeps through our memory. It’s exactly the kind of experience you want to share with a special someone. The same can be said for the romance of a train ride.
          Revel in the breath-snatching sights of the Verde Canyon while savoring flavored coffee, specialty cocktails and a buffet of sumptuous chocolate goodies including a fountain. Enjoy the luxury of first-class accommodations and access to open air gondolas with friends, family or your one and only Valentine. Knowing that you’re part of something that has endured for 100 years is just the chocolate-covered strawberry on top.
          The historic rail line was built a century ago, a slender connection between the booming copper mines of Jerome and distant civilization. When Dave Durbano purchased the line he knew this was a treasure that must be shared. Today, passengers relax in plush comfort as the train rumbles into terrain where eagles swoop from wind-gnawed cliffs, mule deer graze at the edge of the cottonwood trees and fierce sunsets streak the sky. It has always been about the journey, not the destination.  
          Verde Canyon Railroad runs every day except Tuesdays (with the notable exception of Feb. 14). The depot is located in Clarkdale, twenty-five minutes from Sedona and 2 hours north of Phoenix, making Verde Canyon Railroad the perfect Arizona day trip. For an overnight stay, ask about our Room, Ride and Meal Packages. Call 800-293-7245 or book online at verdecanyonrr.com.

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