There’s no better way in Ohio to enjoy the fall foliage than taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
The railroad offers a variety of trains throughout the year, including the incredibly popular North Pole Adventure, but the fall ride, sold as the Fall Scenic, is one of a kind. Traveling through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the train takes riders through stunning vistas of fall colors.
There are two ways to ride it. The Express leaves from the Peninsula Depot, 1630 Mill Street West in Peninsula, Ohio, and runs about 2 hours round trip. The Classic takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes for the full 24-mile round trip. It leaves from Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Road in Independence, Ohio, or from Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge Street in Akron, Ohio. The Fall Scenic runs all of October, with extra Friday and Saturday departures added for leaf season. Tickets are $26 to $39 per person. Prices and ride lengths come from the railroad’s own pages as of October 2026.
Speaking of tickets, if you’re in the mood for a truly exceptional experience, book a seat upstairs in the dome car. The seats are padded and come with a table. The views are stunning and the domed car lets you take in the sights in all directions. Coach is the only ticket that lets you get off and back on during the day. Every other seat is assigned, and you stay on board for the whole ride.
In the area surrounding the national park, you’ll find tons of fun restaurants, bars, and unique accommodations.
If you have an October weekend in mind, book it early on the Fall Scenic page.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located just a short distance from Cleveland and Akron, but you’ll feel worlds away. The park is beautiful, full of hiking trails, activities, waterfalls, and gorgeous rock formations. To learn all about Ohio’s only National Park, you can visit nps.gov/cuva.
MORE LIKE THIS: 7 Fall Train Rides in Ohio Worth the Drive From Columbus
MORE LIKE THIS: The 8 Best Places In Ohio To See Fall Foliage
