How long is the train ride?

The Opening Weekend Celebration lasts about one hour from departure to return.

Arrive at the station and check in at the platform; organizers ask guests to be there 15 minutes before departure.

Children receive free goodie bags, but ticket pricing varies—check the booking page for current fares.

Do veterans ride free?

Yes, veterans ride free for this event; bring appropriate ID and confirm details when booking.

Are restrooms available?

Yes, porta-potties are available at the station for rider use.

Is the event canceled for rain?

No—the train operates rain or shine, so bring waterproof outerwear for light rain.

Mount Perry Opening Weekend: Family Scenic Train Ride in Ohio | Train | Sightseeing Tour

Mount Perry, Ohio wakes early on a summer morning as families gather at the small station to board the Opening Weekend Celebration train. This one-hour scenic ride threads through open farmland, sugar-maple stands and low rolling hills shaped by glacial action, offering easy, accessible views of the region’s working landscape. The event is built for all ages: kids receive free goodie bags filled with simple toys, veterans ride free, and the train runs rain or shine, making it a reliable plan when weather is uncertain. Onboard, conversation and the rhythm of wheels on track replace the rush of daily life. The line passes field edges where white-tailed deer graze at dawn and red-tailed hawks patrol thermals above cornfields. In spring, roadside wildflowers flare; by fall, maples and oaks turn a practical patchwork of amber and rust. Porta-potties are available at the station, and organizers ask riders to arrive 15 minutes before departure to board smoothly. Handicap access is limited; guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator for details. This Opening Weekend is more than a photo op. It celebrates a local tradition of short train excursions that bring people into direct contact with the rural landscape around Mount Perry. For families it’s a compact outdoor outing—no long hike, just a gentle ride that still feels adventurous for small children. The combination of predictable scheduling, kid-focused touches, and a pace that keeps young attention spans in mind makes this a standout option for visitors seeking low-effort outdoor connection. Practical details matter: the ride lasts roughly one hour, so pack layers for changing weather and a camera or phone for landscape shots and candid family moments. Because the service runs regardless of light rain, waterproof jackets and shoes will keep the day comfortable. Bring small cash if you hope to purchase extras and check for any updated accessibility information before you arrive. For readers planning a short family adventure near Mount Perry, this seasonal opening day offers a compact, social way to spend an hour outdoors with minimal planning. Whether you’re local or passing through, the Opening Weekend Celebration turns a simple train ride into a shared, place-based experience—equal parts easy enjoyment and local flavor that leaves kids talking about the goodie bag and adults appreciating an uncomplicated break from routine. Local volunteers and staff often greet riders at the platform, offering maps and tips about nearby walking trails, picnic spots and seasonal events. The ride is ideal as an add-on to a day exploring Perry County’s small-town markets, orchards and neighborhood parks. Bring binoculars for birding along the route, and plan to arrive early to pick a seat with the best sight lines; windows are simple but views are uninterrupted.

About Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad

Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad operates scenic heritage train rides from Mount Perry, Ohio, along the historic Glass Rock Spur. The line offers short, family-focused excursions ranging from 40 minutes to one hour, including themed and seasonal experiences.

Popular rides include the Santa Train Ride with festive treats, gifts, optional open-air or indoor seating, and a discount for bringing a new toy or food donation; the Pumpkin Train leading to a pumpkin patch; the Train Robbery with live-action fun; and the Wine Tasting Train Ride presented with Vinberige Vineyards, which supplies charcuterie and a complimentary signature wine glass for the 2025 season.

The railroad also presents interpretive trips such as A Coal Miner’s Story, led by historian Dave Adair, and unique family programs like Hobo Camp, Dog Daze of Summer, Back to School Daze, and longer seasonal offerings. Most rides operate rain or shine, and several run year-round with special event scheduling. Trains depart from Mount Perry and follow scenery through Perry County, offering accessible, relaxed outings for families and groups.

The Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad emphasizes historical context, themed entertainment, and community engagement. Amenities vary by trip and may include indoor seating, open-air views, snacks, and themed activities. Advance reservations are recommended for popular seasonal events. Third-party collaborations and named historians provide added credibility to interpretive programs, while clear duration and family-friendly policies make the railroad an approachable attraction for visitors to central Ohio. Ticketing and schedule details are available through the railroad's published website and office locations.