Auburn restaurant and gathering spot Rail Hop’n announced this week that it will close permanently on June 30, ending a 15-year run that owners Kristi and Bill said was marked by community connections, celebrations and loyal customers.
In a June 2 Facebook post addressed to customers, friends, family and the community, the owners said the decision comes after a series of challenges that left the business unable to continue operating.
“After 15 incredible years, the time has come for us to say goodbye, our last day open will be June 30th, 2026,” the owners wrote.
According to the letter, Rail Hop’n’s recent relocation to 131 E. Main Street was intended to help the business continue growing and serving customers. The owners said they invested significant personal time and resources into building three locations over the years, but ongoing city construction, permitting delays and the sale of their current building by its owners created obstacles they could not overcome.
“Unfortunately, circumstances beyond our control have brought us to a point where we can no longer continue,” Kristi and Bill wrote. “Between ongoing city construction, permitting delays, and the sale of our current building by its owners, we are faced with challenges that made it impossible for us to move forward.”
The owners said another relocation is not financially feasible.
“We simply do not have the resources left to make another move,” they wrote.
The announcement reflected on the relationships built over the years, describing the business as more than just a physical location.
“But it was never about a building, it was about the people,” the owners wrote. “Over the last 15 years, we shared countless laughs, hugs, stories, celebrations, BillyJacks terrible jokes and tears over some delicious brews.”
The owners also thanked employees and volunteers for helping create the atmosphere that made Rail Hop’n a community gathering place.
“We also want to thank our incredible staff and volunteers,” they wrote. “You were the heart and soul of this place. Your dedication, kindness, hard work, and genuine care for our customers helped create the atmosphere that made this business so special.”
The letter concluded with a message of appreciation to customers who supported the business throughout its 15 years in Auburn.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for 15 amazing years,” the owners wrote. “Thank you for your support, your loyalty, your kindness, and your friendship.”
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