Feel like you’ve done just about all there is to do? There are always more unique things to do in Cleveland! For instance, you’ve probably taken several day trips in Ohio … but have you taken one via train? There’s perhaps no more exciting way to travel than by rail. There’s something undeniably charming and fun about a train ride. Cleveland’s location at the heart of the North Coast means that there are plenty of amazing opportunities for a one-of-a-kind train journey, without even having to go too far from home!

1. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad - Fitzwater Maintenance Yard, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
(Editor's Note: Currently the Rockside, Canal Exploration Center, Brecksville and Boston Mill Stations are not being serviced by the train. Check the website for more information.)

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs right through the breathtaking scenery of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, one of the best parks in Ohio. This small railroad packs a ton of unforgettable experiences and iconic sights into a relatively small 51-mile line. Throughout the year, you'll find a wide variety of themed rides offered by the railroad. The winter season, for example, brings a Christmas-themed Polar Express ride. Every trip is something special! You can book tickets on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's website for one of the most exciting Cleveland day trips.
2. Lake Shore Limited
AEMoreira042281/Wikipedia
The expansive Lake Shore Limited is an Amtrak line that stretches between New York City and Chicago. However, the real highlight of the trek lies right here along the North Coast. From Cleveland, you can easily reach several gorgeous Great Lakes spots. The train will take you practically to the banks of Lakes Erie, Ontario, and Michigan. If the water is your favorite part about living in Cleveland, a day trip along the Lake Shore Limited is an absolute must. You can book tickets and get more information on Amtrak's website.

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3. Ashtabula, Carson & Jefferson Scenic Line Railroad
Ashtabula County, OH, USA
Ashtabula, Carson & Jefferson Railroad
This amazing little short line is not located directly in Cleveland, but all it takes to get there is a brief drive to Ashtabula County. This is such an amazingly scenic train ride for one of the best day trips you can take! The cars themselves are nearly 100 years old, making for a charming, old-timey railroad experience unlike anything else near Cleveland. The trip itself only lasts about an hour, but you won't want to leave this amazing part of northern Ohio any time soon! Find out more on the railroad's website.
4. Capitol Limited
Russell Sekeet/Wikimedia Commons
The Capitol Limited is another mammoth interstate railroad. This one connects Chicago with Washington, D.C., and takes an extensive detour through northeast Ohio. The incredible Sightseer Lounge is a car with giant floor-to-ceiling windows. Imagine spending the day watching the epic Midwest landscape unfold! Find out more on Amtrak's website.

Take a look at this video by @mjaviation17:
5. The Cardinal
Amtrak/Facebook
The Cardinal is a New York-Chicago line that traverses an entirely different portion of Ohio than the North Coast that you might be used to. It runs somewhat parallel to the Ohio River, allowing you to take in the natural splendor of the Ohio Valley. The iconic Cincinnati skyline is so beautiful through the train windows for one of the best day trips in Ohio! Get more info from Amtrak.

Take a look at this video by @nkyrailfan:

Have you ever taken one of these incredible day trips from Cleveland? Tell us what your railroad experience was like in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Day Trips From Cleveland

Lisa Sammons | April 13, 2022

What are some good day trips in Cleveland?

There are many good day trips in the Cleveland area. The north shore location may seem a little out of the way for many day trip locations, but that doesn't mean you can't find a great destination from the Forest City. The Wilds in Cumberland, for example, is about 2.5 hours away and is a memorable family outing. The Safari Transport Tour will make you feel like you are transported to Africa!

Check out these fantastic day trips in Ohio.

What are some unique things to do around Cleveland?

Check out some of the most unique things to do around Cleveland:

 

What are some good parks near Cleveland?

There are many good parks in and around Cleveland like the city's so-called "Emerald Necklace." This is an array of parks that surround the city and provide an excellent escape from the urban environment. There are also five state parks near Cleveland that are especially worth a visit.

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