This old-world train near Toronto whisks you away to storybook villages and a quaint market

This dreamy train ride near Toronto will take you to some truly enchanting places. With historic cars, scenic views and picturesque stops, it's a magical way to spend a day.

The Waterloo Central Railway's Heritage Hopper train is returning for the 2025 season starting April 10 and offers some amazing experiences.

Located about an hour from Toronto, the railway whisks you through the Waterloo Region's "famous" Mennonite farm country aboard a historic rail line that has been in service since the 1800s.

The authentic heritage ride features old-world cars with standard coach seating and first-class lounge seating available.

The Heritage Hopper day pass allows you to disembark and enjoy some of the destinations along the way.

You can plan your day around the train schedule and spend some time in the small towns the train travels through, such as Elmira and St. Jacobs, or explore a farmers' market.

Maybe you want to grab lunch in cozy St. Jacobs Village, explore some of the shops, then hop back on the train and finish the day with a trip to the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market—the largest of its kind in Canada.

This year, the Waterloo Central Railway is hosting several Heritage Hopper Fun Days, during which you can enjoy themed rides and experiences.

Some upcoming events include a Wine O'Clock ride, Cake Pop Train, and Canada Day celebrations.

Tickets for the train are available online, so get ready for countryside charm and cozy villages.

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.