This $17 fall train ride near Toronto has colourful valley views and Harry Potter vibes

You'll feel like you're riding the Hogwarts Express.

A person standing by a train. Right: A person sitting on a historic train.

A historic train experience in Ontario.

Lead Writer, Travel

Pack up your trunks and put on some robes! This fall train ride near Toronto will have you feeling like you're riding the Hogwarts Express to wizarding school.

If your Hogwarts acceptance letter got lost in the mail, you can still experience a bit of magic right here in the muggle world.

This historic train ride takes you through a red and gold valley in restored 1920s coaches that have all those Harry Potter vibes. The journey is especially beautiful during the fall when the scenery transforms with vibrant colours.

South Simcoe Railway, located about an hour outside of Toronto, is bringing back its annual Fall Colour Excursions on select dates from September 28 to October 20, 2024.

According to the website, autumn is the most popular time of year to ride the train, due to the gorgeous display of foliage that can be seen along the way.

The train takes you along a century-old branchline through the Beeton Creek Valley. You'll ride in a vintage locomotive that will have you feeling like you're on your way to see Dumbledore.

The journey takes you through rolling countryside dotted with vibrant autumn trees.

The round trip from Tottenham to Beeton and back takes just under an hour and you can enjoy the conductor's commentary along the way.

Upon returning, you can check out the local shops and restaurants located a block away from the station.

The Fall Colour Excursions have five departures each day and typically sell out quickly.

Advance reservation tickets are currently on sale, so start planning that magical fall adventure.

South Simcoe Railway Fall Colour Excursions

Price: $17 per adult

When: Select dates from September 28 to October 20, 2024

Address: Mill St. W., Tottenham, ON

South Simcoe Railway Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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