This Pretzel Express train ride near Toronto takes you to a beautiful German village

You can enjoy fall views and a doughy snack!

A historic building. Right: A train driving through fall colours.

A building in an Ontario village. Right: A train in Ontario.

@jacobsgrill | Instagram and @explorewaterlooregion | Instagram, Courtesy of Waterloo Central Railway
Lead Writer, Travel

You can enjoy gorgeous autumn colours with a side of pretzels on this fall train ride near Toronto. The Pretzel Express takes you through rolling countryside to a quaint autumn village as you indulge in a delicious doughy snack.

The Waterloo Central Railway is hosting a special Pretzel Express ride on the Heritage Hopper. On October 10, 2024, you can enjoy an authentic ride through scenic Mennonite farm country complete with a free soft pretzel from the local bakery Grainharvest Breadhouse.

The Pretzel Express makes several stops, including the charming St. Jacobs Village. This small town has German roots that complement your pretzel-filled journey and it's an idyllic spot to experience the magic of autumn.

You can spend some time exploring the local shops along the leaf-covered streets or digging into some of the delicious treats at the bakeries and restaurants.

The Pretzel Express also stops at the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market — the largest year-round farmers' market in Canada. You can hop off and explore the many stalls and goods that this spot has to offer.

Elmira is another small town you can explore along the way. A free shuttle will take you to the downtown core where you can grab a bite to eat and do some shopping.

The hop-on, hop-off service allows you to customize your day without sticking to a tight schedule.

Tickets for the Pretzel Express are available online and you can choose from first class or coach seating.

If you're craving soft, fresh pretzels, small towns and autumn views, you'll want to take a ride on the Pretzel Express this fall.

Pretzel Express

Price: $24.99 + per person

When: October 10, 2024

Address: 330 Farmers Market Rd., St.Jacobs, ON

Waterloo Central 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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