MOUNT PERRY TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
A Small-Town Holiday: Santa Boards the Mount Perry Express
A family-friendly, festive train in Mount Perry that pairs a 40-minute ride with Santa with treats, gifts and seating choices—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
A Small-Town Holiday: Santa Boards the Mount Perry Express.
Adventure brief
A Small-Town Holiday: Santa Boards the Mount Perry Express
On a crisp Ohio afternoon the Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad stages a seasonal, Polar-Express–style outing: a festive 40-minute train ride with Kris Kringle aboard a short, family-oriented run out of Mount Perry. Passengers receive treats and small gifts from Santa, can choose between open-air or indoor seating, and are encouraged to bring a new toy or a food donation for a discount.
Celebrate the holiday season with a charming 40-minute Santa Train Ride offered by the Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad in Mount Perry, Ohio. This festive journey invites families to enjoy the warmth and joy of the holidays aboard a scenic train ride that features visits from Santa himself. Riders can choose between the cozy comfort of indoor seating or the fresh air of open-air cars, perfect for those wanting to catch crisp winter views. Along the way, guests receive delightful holiday treats and gifts, making it a memorable outing for kids and adults alike. One of the highlights is the opportunity to bring a new toy or food donation to receive a discount, encouraging community spirit and generosity. The train winds through picturesque Ohio landscapes, setting the perfect backdrop for holiday photos and family memories. This experience is great for families looking to create a special holiday tradition or anyone wanting to enjoy a unique seasonal adventure. Whether you're local or visiting nearby cities, this festive ride is a heartwarming way to kick off the holiday season in a beautiful natural setting.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
A simple boarding, loop and return sequence makes up the ride—arrive early to board and settle before departure.
Mount Perry Station
Passengers board at the Mount Perry station; riders are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the train departs to allow time for boarding.
Holiday Loop (Onboard)
A roughly 40-minute onboard segment where Santa visits, treats and gifts are handed out, and riders experience either open-air or indoor seating.
Return to Mount Perry Station
The train completes its loop and returns to the departure station for disembarkation.
Handicap access is limited; porta-potties are available at the station; the train runs rain or shine.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Santa, Treats and Gifts
The train features an onboard visit from Santa who distributes treats and gifts to riders, creating the core of the holiday experience.
Open-Air or Indoor Options
Riders may choose open-air seating for a more exposed, wintry ride or indoor seating for shelter and warmth—both options are offered by the operator.
Bring a Toy or Food for a Discount
Guests who bring a new toy or a food donation receive a discounted fare, encouraging charitable giving as part of the outing.
What the day feels like
What the Ride Feels Like
The short excursion is staged as a holiday spectacle: a convivial, family-focused loop featuring Santa, seasonal treats and small presents. Seating is offered both inside and in open-air cars, and the onboard program centers on creating a relaxed, festive hour for families and children.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should plan ahead.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress warmly; bring a new toy or a food donation to receive a discount.
Please arrive 15 minutes before the train departs to allow time for boarding and seating.
Porta-potties are available at the station, and the train operates rain or shine—plan clothing accordingly.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the train ride?
The outing features a 40-minute train ride with Santa.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the train departs to allow time for boarding.
Are there restroom facilities?
Porta-potties are available at the station.
Is the train accessible?
Handicap access is limited.
What seating options are offered?
Riders may choose open-air or indoor seating.
Is there a discount for donations?
Bringing a new toy or a food donation qualifies riders for a discount.
Does the event run in poor weather?
The train runs rain or shine.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:27:04.109Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.