A Small-Town Holiday: Santa Boards the Mount Perry Express

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.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Mount Perry
Operator
Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad
Category
Train
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

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.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE GUEST

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.

THE SEATING

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.

THE GIVEBACK

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.

1
Families with young childrenA relaxed, family-focused holiday outing centered on Santa, treats and small gifts; ideal for families seeking a short, memorable seasonal activity, but note accessibility limits at the site.
2
Visitors with mobility concernsNot ideal without advance planning: handicap access is limited, so travelers requiring accessible boarding or seating should confirm accommodations with the operator before booking.
3
Weather-sensitive ridersExpect exposure if you choose open-air seating—because the train runs rain or shine, dress warmly and for the elements.
4
Generous, community-minded travelersA good match for those who want to combine a festive experience with giving: bringing a new toy or food donation qualifies riders for a discount.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Dress warmly; bring a new toy or a food donation to receive a discount.

Arrival & Boarding

Please arrive 15 minutes before the train departs to allow time for boarding and seating.

Facilities & Weather

Porta-potties are available at the station, and the train operates rain or shine—plan clothing accordingly.

Booking Notice

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.