This Dreamy Train-Themed Trip Through Ohio Will Take You On The Journey Of A Lifetime
If you’re a train enthusiast, Ohio is the state for you.
Scattered throughout the Buckeye State are train museums, depots, scenic railways and even train themed restaurants that are fun for the whole family to enjoy. We’ve designed a trip that’s ideal for a train-themed weekend getaway right here in your very own state. Take a look:
Only In Your State
The total trip takes a little less than 8 hours to complete. We’ve designed it in a loop, so you can start with the location closest to you. To view a Google Map of the trip in a separate tab or window, click here.
If you're able to, start your trip with the Ohio Railway Museum. This railroad, train station and museum features an impressive collection of more than 30 pieces. On select days, 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 click here.
For lunch, make a stop at Buckeye Express Diner, where you don't necessarily have to board an operating train for a locomotive themed dining experience. If you take exit 165 off of Interstate 71, you'll find this iconic not-your-average diner. (Note: Michigan fans must park across the street.) Buckeye Express Diner is located at 810 State Rt. 97 W., Bellville, OH 44813.
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, click here.
End your day with dinner inside a former train depot. The Berea Union Depot Restaurant in Berea, Ohio features a unique dining experience inside a historic train depot alongside active railroad tracks. What was once a bustling railroad hub in the late 1800s is now a family favorite restaurant where visitors can enjoy the history, unique atmosphere and passing trains. The Berea Union Depot Restaurant is located at 30 Depot St., Berea, OH 44017.
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 a scenic ride through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year until the first weekend in October. For more information click here.
With more than 150 years of history, a charming train depot and an iconic deli, this small village that's home to just 2,700 residents is one of Ohio's most underrated small towns. Stroll the historic streets, visit the train museum, enjoy the local park and make a day trip out of Dennison. (We recommend having lunch at Pangrazio's Pizza or Berni's.)
End your trip with another scenic train ride in the rolling hills of southeast Ohio. 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 between Memorial Day and the last weekend of October. For more information click here.
What do you think of this trip? Would you take it? Share your thoughts with us!
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for local Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
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