The Dryer in Katy Expands with Rideable Train, Farmer’s Market, and Community Hub in Phase II
The next phase of The Dryer in Katy, one of the city's most iconic landmarks, is set to bring an exciting mix of entertainment, history, and community engagement alongside the successful Katy Beer Garden. Building on the runaway success of the Katy Beer Garden, which opened in June 2024 and quickly became a favorite among locals, this next phase takes things to another level.
Developer Andrew (Hadi) Nurcahya is expanding the beloved site to include a rideable train, a rotating vendor market, and a new community event space, further cementing The Dryer’s place as a premier gathering spot in the heart of Katy.
Bringing History to Life with a Rideable Train
A highlight of Phase II of The Dryer is a rideable miniature train, which will loop around the base of the historic J.V. Cardiff & Sons Rice Dryer. The train, custom-built by Titan Trains in 2024, can hold up to 20 passengers and offers a nostalgic nod to Katy’s railroad history. The 900-ft track encircles the rice dryer, offering passengers a unique perspective of this historic site. A crew of local, dedicated trackmen have been working steadily for months to ensure timely delivery and performance of the track, making countless adjustments for a seamless, safe riding experience.
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The gasoline-powered train will operate Fridays through Sundays from noon to 10 p.m., and each ride will take passengers on three laps around the dryers for just $3 per ticket. As part of The Dryer’s commitment to preserving Katy’s rich history, $1 from every ticket sale will be donated to the Katy Heritage Society.
“We want this train to not only be a fun attraction but also a meaningful way to connect with Katy’s deep-rooted history in railroads and rice farming,” Nurcahya said.
As an additional tribute to Katy’s love for trains, David J. Malloch of Beaumont has donated his intricate HO-scale model train exhibit, Centreville, to be housed in a dedicated Train Depot at The Dryer in Katy. Spanning 600 square feet with 1,500 feet of track, this historically accurate layout showcases iconic 1958 passenger trains, including the 20th Century Limited and Super Chief, alongside steam-powered freight locomotives. Guests will have easy access to this exhibit just off the loading platform for train rides.
An Expanding Community Hub
The Dryer is more than an entertainment venue; it’s a space designed to bring the Katy community together. Alongside the train ride, Phase II will introduce:
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A Shipping Container Market – This space will house 15-16 micro-retail vendors offering unique food and drink from around the world, along with local crafts and public restrooms, adding even more variety to the trifecta shopping-dining-entertainment experience.
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A Model Train Exhibit – A new building, designed as a train depot, will house an extensive collection model trains donated by David Malloch of Beaumont.
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A Concessions Pavilion – Featuring classic carnival favorites like popcorn, lemonade, and cotton candy, along with international treats like Mexican street corn, boba tea, and mangonadas.
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A Green Space and Stage – Designed for community events, the new area nestled against the iconic rice dryers will be available for yoga, Pilates, movie nights, live music, and charity events.
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A Gift Shop – Offering Katy-themed souvenirs, rice dryer merchandise, and locally crafted Texas goods, with a portion of sales supporting the Katy Heritage Society.
“We want this to be a place where people come together—not just to eat and shop, but to celebrate Katy’s culture and history,” Nurcahya said.
An aerial rendering of The Dryer Phase II, specifically the east side where the train will wrap around the iconic rice dryers Katy’s Weekly Farmer’s Market at The Dryer
Starting Saturday, March 22, 2025, The Dryer will launch a weekly Farmer’s Market, taking place every Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The market will focus on fresh produce, dairy, meats, and other farm-to-table goods, offering locals a consistent and reliable place to shop for high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Nurcahya envisions the Farmer’s Market as part of a larger mission to enhance the well-being of Katy residents by promoting access to wholesome, fresh food while reconnecting the community with its agricultural heritage. “Katy was built on rice farming, and this market allows us to celebrate that legacy while supporting local farmers and vendors,” he said.
The steady stream of visitors drawn to the Katy Beer Garden, which has already seen viral success, is expected to provide a natural flow of foot traffic to the market, making it a vibrant, bustling weekend destination for locals.
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Future Plans: Katy’s First Restaurant Inside a Rice Dryer
Although Phase II is nearing completion, Nurcahya has even bigger plans for The Dryer. One of the most ambitious projects on the horizon is the first-ever restaurant inside a rice dryer. With local structural engineer Steve Shielder confirming that the interior is structurally sound, plans are in motion to transform Silo D, built in 1945, into a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
The restaurant is still in the concept stage, with a fine dining experience being considered. One potential operator is Lori Pope of Harvest Kitchen. The vision includes seating for 148 guests, with eight silos each accommodating up to 16 diners.
“San Antonio has a single table inside a silo—this would be a full restaurant experience unlike anything else in Texas,” Nurcahya noted.
Grand Opening Timeline and Final Preparations
The Dryer’s Phase II is set to debut by late April or May 2025. Before opening, Union 84 steel workers will be on-site to remove any unsafe elements, ensuring the safety and longevity of the venue.
As excitement builds, The Dryer continues to evolve into a vibrant cultural landmark. Whether hopping on the rideable train, exploring local vendors, or looking ahead to Katy’s first-ever rice dryer restaurant, The Dryer is shaping up to be a destination that combines history, entertainment, and community like never before.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
