The nostalgia good old-fashioned train rides in Ohio can bring is truly special. Scenic train rides in Ohio can bring us back to a time when we took the time to watch what was outside our window and simply enjoy the journey. If you’re looking to remember what it’s like to enjoy the journey and tour Ohio in a unique way—or you just want to give the family a special dinner experience they’ll never forget—then traveling Ohio’s scenic railways is the perfect way to do just that. The following are train rides in Ohio that will give you an unforgettable experience.

1. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (Peninsula)
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Rd, Independence, OH 44131, USA
Edsel Little/Flickr
Enjoy cocktails on the rails, brunch, or a murder mystery dinner via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and its special events. You can also take one of the most scenic train rides in Ohio, as the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a journey through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on select days throughout the year. For more information, check out the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website.
2. The Polar Express and Santa Claus Express (via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad)
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Rd, Independence, OH 44131, USA
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad/Facebook
During the holiday season, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad features yuletide-themed train rides. Be on the lookout for reindeer in the scenic valley while you sip hot chocolate and eat Christmas cookies. Plan months ahead for this ride, as tickets are limited and go fast. For more information, check out the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website.
3. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway (Nelsonville)
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway/Facebook
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W Canal St, Nelsonville, OH 45764, USA
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway/Facebook
Operating train rides through the Hocking River Valley between East Logan and Nelsonville, this scenic railway features several holiday and seasonal events as well. Trains also operate every Saturday and Sunday on a seasonal basis. For more information, visit the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway website.
4. Cincinnati Dinner Train (Cincinnati)
cincinnatirailway.com
Cincinnati Dinner Train, 2172 E Seymour Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA
Cincinnati Dinner Train/Facebook
All dinners served on this train include a side of scenery aboard three beautifully restored 1950s era dining cars. The public dinner train operates on select nights throughout the year and features a three-hour train ride and a four-course meal. The train also features two private luxury dining cars and special events throughout the year. For tickets, departure times and other information, visit the Cincinnati Dinner Train website.

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5. Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad (Lebanon)
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad/Facebook
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, 16 E South St, Lebanon, OH 45036, USA
lebanonrr.com
The LM&M Railroad features scenic train rides through southwestern Ohio in Warren County, departing from historic downtown Lebanon. The train runs on most weekends throughout the year and on select weekdays. For more information, head on over to the Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad website.
6. Orrville Railroad Heritage Society (Orrville)
Orrville, Depot St, Orrville, OH 44667, USA
Orrville Railroad Heritage Society /Facebook
The Orrville Railroad Heritage Society features several train ride excursions and events open to the general public such as Spring Circle Trips, National Train Day, Orrville Railroad Day, Fall Foliage Trips, and more. To learn more about when the train will run this year, check out the Orrville Railroad Heritage Society website.
7. Ohio Railway Museum (Worthington)
Ohio Railway Museum/Facebook
The Ohio Railway Museum, 990 Proprietors Rd, Worthington, OH 43085, USA
Ohio Railway Museum/Facebook
This railroad, train station, and museum features an impressive collection of more than 30 pieces. Seasonally, the museum offers round-trip demonstration rides on some of the streetcars and interurbans. The museum also features several holiday and seasonal rides, such as the popular Ghost Trolley. For more information, check out the Ohio Railway Museum website.
8. Lorain and West Virginia Railway (Wellington)
Lorain & West Virgina Railway / Facebook
Lorain & West Virginia Railway, 46485 OH-18, Wellington, OH 44090, USA
Lorain & West Virginia Railway / Facebook
The Lorain and West Virginia Railway features a slew of themed rides. In the past, the railway has hosted a two-hour tour of the Age of Steam Roundhouse in Sugarcreek, Wine on Rails, Lorain County Fair train rides, a Murder Mystery Train and other events. To learn more about what this railway will offer this season, head on over to the Lorain and West Virginia Railway website.

What do you think of these train rides in Ohio? Have you ever enjoyed any of these scenic train rides in Ohio? Know of any other scenic railroads in Ohio? Whatever it is, tell us!

Scenic train rides in Ohio aren’t the only option for enjoying the state’s stunning landscape. There are quite a few others, including the most beautiful hikes in Ohio. And for more local adventures, be sure to check out Airbnb experiences!

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Train Rides In Ohio

Daniella DiRienzo | September 19, 2022

What is the most scenic town in Ohio?

Of all the beautiful towns in Ohio, Peninsula ranks pretty high up there. A tiny village, Peninsula is unknown to many, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth knowing about.

  • Absolutely beautiful, the tiny town is nestled between Cleveland and Akron
  • Peninsula is surrounded by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Natural beauty and gorgeous vistas are just a few of the reasons to love this small town
  • Despite its small size, the town boasts lots of history and plenty to see and do, including an array of unique shops and eateries.

 

What's the most beautiful hike in Ohio?

When talking about the most beautiful hikes in Ohio, there are two locations that immediately come to mind.

It’s nearly impossible to not mention the Buckeye Trail.

  • Encircling the state, it’s often revered as the best hike in Ohio and one of the best hikes in the U.S.
  • Living up to its reputation, the iconic trek spans 1,444 miles and features tons of incredible sights, including Old Man’s Cave and Caesar Creek State Park.

 

The Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve also offers some great hiking opportunities.

  • There are two loop trails within the preserve. The trails can be hiked alone, or combined for a total distance of 4.75 miles.
  • Along the way, hikers are treated to a variety of flora, a scenic stream valley, forested areas, and an incredible cliff-top vista, which is particularly stunning in the fall.

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