Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

5 Fantastic Holiday Train Rides Around Ohio

One of the best ways to ease yourself into the full swing of the holiday season is by hopping on board a fun train. There are some spectacular ones around Ohio, complete with elves, great views, holiday treats, and even Santa himself.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, there are a few options within a few hours from here! Although some of these train rides are still a little ways away, they sell out very quickly, so it’s never too soon to start planning your holiday adventures.

The North Pole Express at LM&M Railroad

via Facebook

The North Pole Express at LM&M Railroad is a total “Polar Express” experience. The train runs on various days between now and December 23. Passengers can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies on the train platform.

The train ride is an hour and 15 minutes long and Santa and his elves will make their way through the train cars to visit with each family. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras. Tickets for Coach Class start at $30, Deluxe Class $40, and infants under two are $5. For more information about The North Pole Express, please click here.

The Santa Train at Hocking Valley Scenic River

via Facebook

For 40+ years, The Santa Train has been running along the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. Trains start running on November 30 and continue each Saturday and Sunday through Saturday, December 22. The trains leave from the Nelsonville Depot at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. They will also have an evening departure time of 6 p.m. on Nov. 30, the 7th,, 8th, 13th, 14th, 20th, and 21st of December. The Santa Train is a 2-mile trip and it takes about two hours to complete. The train is decorated, heated, and of course, includes a visit from Santa. Tickets are $19 for children and $24 for adults.

For more information about The Santa Train, please click here.

The Polar Express at The Dennison Depot

via Facebook

Put on your pajamas and head to the North Pole on the Polar Express at the Dennison Depot. Storytellers will be reading The Polar Express aloud as kiddos make crafts, eat snacks, and ride the train. Santa will join the journey midway, making time to visit with children and give them all a special gift.

The Polar Express at The Dennison Depot runs December 5-8 and 12-15. Ticket prices vary based on type. Group rates are also available.

For more information about The Polar Express, please click here.

The North Pole Adventure at Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway

via Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Facebook

The route winds through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located about two hours northeast of Columbus. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, activities, and more as the train makes its way through the park. The train will stop at the North Pole where riders can hand-deliver their letters-to-Santa to the North Pole’s postmaster!

Be sure to have your camera ready, because you never know who might show up on the 90-minute train ride. Tickets start at $45 and the train runs November 8 through December 21. For more information about the North Pole Express at Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway, please click here.

2024 North Pole Express at the Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation

via Facebook

Hop on board the quarter-scale trains at Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation for a magical trip through a winter wonderland. The museum and the train barn are decorated with sparkling lights, as well as the trees along the route. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there on certain nights.

The trains run on ​Fridays & Saturdays from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. from November 22 through December 29. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under. Be sure to dress warmly since the trains are open air.

For more information, please click here.

All aboard, Columbus. We’re going for an awesome ride!