Training Day! Escape for the Day by Train

It’s been said that the far off wail of a train’s whistle is the loneliest sound in the world. There’s even a song written about it. That argument is debatable though: to some it could simply symbolize travel, adventure and a nostalgic signal of a slower pace of life. You don’t need to travel too far to find some fun day train trips. Check out our list. All aboard!

Waterloo Central Railway

Hop on board the train right in the heart of the St. Jacobs Market! The Waterloo Central Railway offers frequent recreational passenger train rides on a historic railway branch between the Farmers’ Market, the Village of St. Jacobs, and the town of Elmira. Many theme rides take place throughout the year in addition to the regular Market Train rides, including a Great Train Robbery, the Steam Locomotive Train, and Mother’s/Father’s day rides. If you like a little food along with your travels, shop at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market before or after the ride.
Bonus: Rail School Calling all would-be conductors! Learn how to drive a train for free. This is the only rail school in South-Western Ontario, which certifies approved applicants with the Ministry of Transportation for the positions of Engineer, Conductor, or Safety Crew. Sorry kids, it’s only for those 18 and older.

Credit Valley Explorer

Boasting to be “Southern Ontario’s most scenic rail tour”, the Credit Valley Explorer offers something unique for every season. This railway was established 138 years ago, and takes you through the beautiful scenery of the Credit Valley and the Hills of Headwaters. Passengers are treated to a bounty of fall colours in the rolling hills and deep valleys at this time of year. This route offers an interpretive commentary, assigned seating (nobody will steal your designated picture window seat) and onboard meals and refreshments. Tours offer different themes, including the Sightseeing Tour, Snow Train, and popular Santa Train.
Bonus: Don’t let this train rock you to sleep; you won’t want to miss the 1,146-foot long trestle bridge. Look way down – and don’t forget your camera. Most mid-day scenic tours stop in the charming village of Inglewood.

South Simcoe Railway

Sit aboard South Simcoe Railway’s historic excursion train and travel roaring 20s style in the restored coaches on the line that once connected travellers to Hamilton, Barrie and Collingwood. The round trip loop from Tottenham to Beeton is an hour’s worth of informative commentary courtesy of the conductor.
Bonus: The Fall Colour Excursions are most popular; see the brilliance of the trees through scenic Beeton Creek Valley. For themed rides, there’s the Haunted Halloween Adventure or the Santa Claus Express.

Halton County Radial Railway

This streetcar and electric railway museum commemorates Toronto’s radial railroads (1917-1948) along a preserved stretch of the original Guelph Line. The train operates seasonally, including special holiday rides such as the Halloween event, where there may or may not be things lurking in the forests along the track…
Bonus: Hop off/on at the forested end of the line for a little nature spotting and a visit to the old-fashioned ice cream shop.

Port Stanley Terminal Rail

The resort village of Port Stanley’s heritage diesel engines are decked with open and closed cars and will take you on a round trip through scenic Kettle Creek Valley. Featured rides include dinner rides, murder mystery trains, holiday themes and more.
Bonus: Check out the rail equipment display and snap some selfies with the vintage circus car.

York Durham Heritage Railway

The Toronto area’s only seasonal 1940s/1950s heritage railway track brings travellers through the picturesque hills and river valleys of the Oak Ridges Moraine. The round trip runs from Uxbridge to Stouffville. There are 14 trips to choose from, including a beer and cheese pairing, and a pizza party, or you can go “all-out” and be an Engineer for the Day.
Bonus: Upgrade your ticket and ride in the caboose!

Training Day! Escape for the Day by Train