Are there restrooms on the train?

No, restrooms are available inside Grand Central Station and at the Metamora stop during the layover.

Is this train ride accessible for people with disabilities?

The trains are historic and not fully accessible, but assistance is available by arriving 30 minutes early and registering with staff.

Can children under 2 ride without a ticket?

Yes, children under 2 can ride for free if seated on an adult's lap; however, car seats or carriers are not permitted without a purchased ticket.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Only trained service animals are permitted; pets and emotional support animals are not allowed.

Is smoking allowed on the train or in stations?

No, smoking and vaping are prohibited on the train, in stations, and boarding areas.

When should I arrive for boarding?

Guests should arrive no less than 15 minutes before departure, allowing extra time if assistance is needed or for large groups.

Experience Indiana’s Fall Foliage Flyer: Scenic Autumn Train Ride through Whitewater Valley

The Fall Foliage Flyer offers travelers a unique 5-hour journey through the vibrant colors of autumn in Indiana's Whitewater Valley. Departing from Connersville’s historic Grand Central Station, this train ride delivers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, local history, and family-friendly fun that outdoor enthusiasts and casual explorers alike will appreciate. Each October, the Whiteswater Valley Railroad invites guests aboard vintage coaches steamed-heated for comfort, winding through landscapes painted with fiery reds, oranges, and golds that define Midwest fall.

Starting at the heart of Connersville, fans of rail travel embark on a roughly two-hour scenic ride before arriving at Metamora – a quaint town known for its well-preserved 19th-century charm. Here, guests enjoy a two-hour stop to stroll the rustic streets, grab a bite at local eateries, or peek into artisan shops brimming with regional crafts. Backdrops of the surrounding Whitewater River and rolling hills make this historic stop a photographer’s delight.

The Whitewater Valley itself features gentle valleys carved by the river and interspersed with hardwood forests, where you can spot native flora changing colors with the season. This area is part of Indiana’s rich railroading legacy, and the railroad operate as a nonprofit dedicated to preserving these historic lines and educating visitors about the region’s transportation history. The warm steam and wooden benches aboard the train recall a bygone era, adding a nostalgic flavor to your journey.

Though the trains are not fully accessible, the staff at Grand Central Station work diligently to assist passengers needing help boarding. Pets and smoking are not permitted, preserving a clean and family-friendly atmosphere throughout the adventure. For those planning their trip, dressing in autumn-appropriate layers is recommended as temperatures can vary. Parking is plentiful and free at the station, and the prompt boarding ensures you have a smooth experience.

Fall Foliage Flyer is an exemplary activity for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in Indiana’s fall colors without the rigors of hiking or driving long distances. The vibrant autumn scenery alongside the ease of this historic train ride makes it a standout adventure in the Whitewater Valley region. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply yearning for a peaceful escape into nature’s palette, this experience offers a refreshing way to connect with the outdoors and the heritage of eastern Indiana.

About Whitewater Valley Railroad

Whitewater Valley Railroad operates heritage passenger excursions from Connersville, Indiana, through the scenic Whitewater Valley. The railroad offers themed train trips for families and rail enthusiasts, departing from Connersville’s Grand Central Station and traveling to historic destinations like Metamora. Signature trips include the Pumpkinliner, a fall family event combining a train ride, hayride, and pumpkin patch visit; the Fall Foliage Flyer, a five-hour round trip with a two-hour stop in Metamora; and the Valley Flyer, a five-hour weekend round trip that runs May through October with a two-hour layover in historic Metamora.

Holiday programming is a core part of the schedule. The Santa Claus Limited has run since 1973 and features Santa visiting each family and handing out candy canes. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride recreates the book experience with a reading, hot chocolate and cookies served by train staff, a visit with Santa at the North Pole stop, and a silver bell keepsake. Events are family-friendly, suitable for all ages, and designed to create memorable seasonal experiences.

Tickets for popular seasonal excursions frequently sell out, so early reservations are recommended. The railroad combines scenic travel, living-history interpretation, community-focused events, and reliable departures to deliver accessible cultural and recreational train rides in eastern Indiana.

Many excursions depart from Connersville's Grand Central Station, providing convenient local access and a historically themed boarding experience for riders of all ages. Seasonal offerings include fall foliage tours, pumpkin events, weekend scenic trips from May to October, and special holiday trains. Plan ahead for availability.