Take a step back in time to experience the wonder of the holiday season by hopping aboard a train or trolley. Prepare for some old-fashioned fun and have a one-of-kind adventure on these unique locomotives. In addition to the train or trolley ride, many of these events also include a variety of other festive activities.
Trains
Huntington Holiday Train
Location: Main Library
The beloved Huntington Holiday Train will be back on display at the Main Library this year. Check the library website for operating hours.
Santa in the Caboose at Historical Village at Weaver Park
Location: Hilliard
Enter the red caboose to interact and take photos with Santa in his suit from the 1800s. Historical Village will also be open with live music, art projects, refreshments and more.
Date: Dec. 10, 3-6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Annual Golden Spike Open House at The Depot
Location: The Depot (921 Old Henderson Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43220)
Tour the train cars decorated for the season, take a ride on the Scioto Railway through the decorated light display, enjoy light refreshments, work on a craft and watch a holiday movie.
Date: December 17th, 2017 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Admission is a coat for the needy (hats, gloves and scarves are welcome) or 1 unwrapped gift per person for the benefit of Firefighters For Kids Toy Drive and TriVillage Chamber Coat Drive.
EnterTRAINMENT Junction
Location: West Chester, Ohio (North of Cincinnati)
Here you’ll find the world’s largest indoor train display, the A-Maze-N Funhouse, play area and a Christmas Journey. This is a great spot with lots of activities to keep everyone entertained!
Date: Open year-round, but the Christmas Journey begins 11/11- 12/31.
Polar Express Rides
Although it will require some travel to reach the following train station locations, the experience is completely worth it. These magical rides often sell out, so purchase your tickets early.
Cuyahoga Scenic Valley Railroad
Location: Independence, OH
Dates: Nov. 11-Dec. 16
Cost: Tickets start at $47 per person and sell out QUICK!
Northwest Ohio Railroad North Pole Express
Take a ride on the quarter scale steam locomotive for an exciting holiday experience.
Location: Findlay, OH
Dates: Nov. 24th- December 30th, 2017
Cost: $2 for children, $3 for adults
Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad Santa Train
Depart from Nelsonville Station on this 20 mile, 2-hour round trip adventure. Santa visits each child as the train rolls along the valley. Children also receive a candy treat during the ride.
Location: Nelsonville, OH
Dates: Nov. 25-26, Dec. 2-3, Dec. 9-10, & 16-17 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Cost: $13 and up
LM&M Railroad
During the hour-long journey, Santa and his elves will make their way through the train spending time with each family. Every child will receive a bell from Santa’s sleigh and a cookie. Bring your camera for pictures with Santa. Balloon artists will also be onboard the train.
Location: Lebanon, OH
Dates: Nov. 25, 26 and December 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, & 24
Cost: $18 and up
The Polar Express at Dennison Railroad Depot
Wear pajamas and board the train headed for the North Pole! On this exciting train ride, storytellers will read the Polar Express and elves will entertain with songs, games and activities. Hot Cocoa and chocolate chip cookies will be served. Before returning home, Santa will board the train to visit each child and give them a special jingle bell.
Location: Dennison, OH
Dates: December 1-3 & 8-10
Cost: $42 and up
TROLLEYS
Celebrate the season by taking a festive trolley ride. This jolly experience is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
HolidayVille
Jolly trolleys take riders to Clintonville area businesses for free and discounted goodies. The fun continues at Mozarts, the event headquarters, with hot cocoa, cookies, activities and visit from Santa himself.
Location: Clintonville
Date: December 3rd, 12:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Discovery District Holiday Trolley Hop
Ride the complimentary trolley through the popular Discovery District as it stops for shopping, crafts, tours and activities.
Location: Discovery District downtown Columbus
Date: Dec. 9th, 1 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Easton Town Center Trolley
Take a fun trolley ride around the beautifully decorated Easton Town Center grounds to take in the sights and sounds of the season. Rides are free, but tips are welcome to benefit charity.
Location: There are three designated pick up and drop off locations at Easton– across from the Brio Tuscan Grille in the south district, in front of Bon Vie in the north district, and at the Easton Gateway across Stelzer Road. While there, don’t miss the festive train display next to the 50 ft. Christmas tree.
Dates: Wed.-Sat. 1-8 pm, Sunday 12-6 p.m.
Be sure to visit our Holiday Guide for a complete listing of outings and activities.