Nestled in the mid-western part of the United States, is the state of Ohio, named after the Ohio river that flows across the state. The strategic location of the state, around a large network of rivers, has made it a leading industrial state of the States and forming the largest network of industries and a major transportation hub, so no doubt you will find a fantastic rail network. In this fast-paced world, train rides are underestimated, but Ohio can change this opinion. Find the best glamping spots and pet-friendly cabins in the state before you embark on a journey. Here, we have put together a list of the most scenic train rides in Ohio that you can enjoy with your family and kids on your next visit to Ohio.
1. Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum Inc.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We welcome our newest arrival! B&O C-3985 was built in April 1978 by the Fruit Growers Express company in Alexandria VA...
Posted by Toledo Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum on Monday, May 24, 2021
An old museum and railroad all in one in Ohio is Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railways and Museum Inc. (TLE&W) in Grand Rapids. The heritage railroad is about 10 miles (16 km) long and passes through by a bridge over the picturesque Maumee River. TLE&W does not currently operate its Bluebird passenger train but has been making consistent efforts to prepare for its grand reopening. Explore the beauty of Lucas and Wood counties by planning a ride here soon!
Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum Inc.
Address: 17475 Saylor Ln, Grand Rapids, OH 43522, United States
Website: Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum Inc.
2. Orrville Railroad Heritage Society
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Orrville Railroad Heritage Society on Friday, June 1, 2012
Orrville Railroad Heritage Society is a train station in Orrville that focuses on preserving the railroad heritage in the state. The organization also aims to educate the townspeople about trains and how Orrville is a place that exists today because of developments and innovation in the railroad industry. Currently, the non-profit group offers hour-long caboose train rides. By doing so, you will be experiencing something unique and supporting the cause to preserve the Ohio railroads. Construction on an open-air passenger flat car is underway too.
Orrville Railroad Heritage Society
Address: 145 Depot St, Orrville, OH 44667, United States
Website: Orrville Railroad Heritage Society
3. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Built in 1972, the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is one of the most gorgeous train routes in Ohio. This one-of-its-kind railroad lies in Nelsonville in Athens County of Ohio. The route traverses through lush green forests with tall trees which makes the ride absolutely heavenly. You can go on this ride with the family or your partner by just booking a ride on the website below. It is located on the West Canal Street amidst the luxury of nature and the meandering Hocking river right beside.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Website: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad
Located in the gorgeous Mt Perry is the train ride of the Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad route. With Jonathan Creek flowing next to it, this route has become a sought-after ride to go on with your loved ones and re-visit the meaning of train journeys. Currently, the Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad is a tourist destination in Southeast Ohio, offering passenger train excursions on an exceptionally scenic and historic rail line known as the Glass Rock Spur.
Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad
5. Byesville Scenic Railway
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The non-profit Byesville Scenic Railway is one of the best rides to go to if you love Ohio train rides amidst the luxury of nature. The Byesville Railway is dedicated in local development and environmental activities like preserving local coal mining in the beautiful Guernsey County in Ohio. The route was originally built as freight corridor for coal, but the greenery and beauty of the route soon attracted the travellers and passenger trains started plying on the route.
Byesville Scenic Railway
Website: Byesville Scenic Railway
6. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Brecksville Station
Go on a scenic journey through National Park, Hale Farm and indulge in dining, beer and wine-tasting activities on the train ride from Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Brecksville Station. You can go on the Independence-Akron route which passes through the most beautiful vista of natural beauty which will leave you mesmerized. This train excursion in Ohio also has long term parking facility so you can bring your car, park it and go on your train ride!
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Brecksville Station
Website: Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Brecksville Station
7. The Ohio Railway Museum
One of the oldest and most gorgeous routes in Ohio is The Ohio Railway and Museum founded in 1948. The museum began with the acquisition of Ohio Public Service Interurban Car, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum displays the role and effect of the railroads on the lives of the people and businesses of Ohio and the United States. You can also go on rides on the streetcars and the Pullman passenger car or simply enjoy the exhibits of streetcars, locomotives and various artefacts.
The Ohio Railway Museum
Website: The Ohio Railway Museum
8. Lorain & West Virginia Railway
Built in 1906, the Lorain and West Virginia Railway was originally built to serve the Lorain Steel Mill, which was later abandoned and restarted for passengers again. The train organizes events and fairs like Fall Foliage, Fir Fare and it is an absolute joy to take your children along. This scenic train ride through Lorain county in Ohio is the most popular. The railway is also expanding its network to other picturesque routes within the country.
Lorain & West Virginia Railway
Website: Lorain & West Virginia Railway
9. Cincinnati Dinner Train
The famous Cincinnati Dinner Train features vintage dining experience in a 1950s style. The train is open to public dining every Saturday from March to October and you need to book your reservations in advance as the seats are limited. The dinner train departs from Seymour Avenue, Cincinnati, at 6 pm and travels to the downtown Cincinnati riverfront. Enjoy a four-course meal with your family or partner which includes prime rib, salmon, boneless chicken along with delicious appetizers. There is a wide range of choices for vegetarians as well.
Cincinnati Dinner Train
Website: Cincinnati Dinner Train
10. Ashtabula, Carson, & Jefferson Railroad
The Ashtabula, Carson and Jefferson Scenic Railroad operates from a junction in Carson to Jefferson in Ashtabula County of Ohio city. The railroad is also known to operate for freight separately. This scenic 28-year-old railroad lies in the Utica Shale region of Northeast Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania. The railroad passes through lush greenery and tall trees making it a great sight for your next train journey.
Ashtabula, Carson, & Jefferson Railroad
11. Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
The historic Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad lies in downtown Lebanon between Dayton and Cincinnati, some of the best places to live in Ohio. The attraction features nostalgic and themed train rides like the North Pole Express, the Wine and Cheese train, a private caboose, Turtle Creek Valley Flyers, and the Easter Bunny Express. There are rides with favourite children’s characters as well including Thomas the Tank Engine and Clifford the Big Red Dog. What more can you ask for when it comes to taking your kids on a joyful ride! The trains were built in 1972 as a replica of a Victorian-style passenger train and the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad is the most fantastic train journey to go with your family.
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
Website: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
12. Mt. Perry Scenic Train - Zanesville and Western
Go on a picturesque ride on Mt. Perry Scenic Train - Zanesville and Western every Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm. You can buy the tickets directly from their website. The track is laid through the rolling hills of Southeastern Ohio in Perry County of Ohio. Perry County is home to famous historical monuments, beautiful natural scenery and several businesses apart from attractive events, fairs and fests like Perry County Fair, the Pottery Festival, Art Walks in Crooksville and Somerset. The train runs from May till October.
Mt. Perry Scenic Train - Zanesville and Western
The journey of trains
Explorers and avid travellers still wish to explore train rides to escape the granite world of airports and at the same time travel on a budget. Kids love these unique and fantastic train rides, so next time you are planning something with your family for the weekend, you can consider these joyous rides. If you liked any of them or need more information, please let us know by dropping a line below. Do check out the best romantic getaways and weekend trips from Ohio as well!
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to