Nostalgic Train Rides This Holiday Season in Northeast Ohio and Tickets Just Went on Sale

VALLEY VIEW, Ohio — The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, a nonprofit heritage rail line operating in formal partnership with the National Park Service, announced that public ticket sales for its 2025 North Pole Adventure™ will begin Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 9 a.m.

Running from Nov. 14 to Dec. 22, the holiday-themed excursion departs from Rockside Station in Independence at 5:00 p.m. and 7:55 p.m. The immersive experience features decorated train cars, letters to Santa, cookies and milk, and a likely appearance from Santa Claus himself. “Cars are themed as Santa’s Workshop, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, and more, offering kids a conductor’s whistle souvenir and a magical ride they won’t forget,” according to CVSR’s website.

CVSR operates along 26 miles of track between Independence and Akron, offering vintage rail excursions year-round through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Riders can board at three primary stations; Rockside in Independence, Peninsula Depot, and Akron Northside; with free parking and a recommendation to arrive 45 minutes early.

Founded in 1972 as a preservation association, the railroad began steam excursions in 1975. By 1989, the National Park Service had purchased the line and established a formal agreement allowing continued excursion service. The modern name, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, was adopted in 1994. In 2018, CVSR added historic California Zephyr dome and sleeper cars to its fleet.

The core National Park Scenic ride spans 3.5 hours roundtrip between Rockside and Akron Northside, priced between $25 and $38, with a $1 premium in October. Shorter two-hour loops from Peninsula offer kid-friendly options. A Café Car is onboard, and coach-class riders may hop on and off at designated stations to explore the park’s hiking trails, towns, and wildlife.

CVSR’s Explorer Program (formerly known as Bike Aboard!) allows hikers, runners, paddlers, and cyclists to take a one-way train back to their starting point. Tickets start at $5 per ride, or about $60 for a Season Explorer Pass offering unlimited one-way trips during the season.

In addition to the North Pole Adventure™, CVSR’s themed trains include the popular Ales on Rails™, a 21+ tasting event featuring four curated beers, a snack box, and a souvenir glass, with ticket prices ranging from $57 to $102. Other special rides include the interactive Murder Mystery series, Tales on the Rails storytelling events, and the new After Hours happy-hour train, all typically lasting 90 minutes and departing from either Rockside or Peninsula.

Group rates are available for parties of 20 or more, and private railcar rentals are offered outside the holiday season. Accessibility requests can be submitted via the group reservation form, and CVSR provides a detailed accessibility FAQ on its website.

Tickets for all CVSR excursions are available through the organization’s online calendar, which lists dates, prices, and station options. With holiday rides known to sell out quickly, early planning is encouraged.

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