Lebanon’s Merry Line
There is something timeless about a train decked out in Christmas lights, pulling away from a small-town station while carols fill the air. The North Pole Express at the Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad in Lebanon, Ohio captures that magic perfectly. Families return year after year to step aboard this festive tradition, but the fun does not have to begin when the whistle blows. With a little planning, the entire day can unfold like a holiday postcard, filled with cozy meals, local adventure, and plenty of cheer.
The perfect day starts in the early afternoon. Arrive in downtown Lebanon a few hours before your scheduled departure and take a leisurely walk through the historic district. The streets brim with holiday decorations, and boutique storefronts showcase ornaments, antiques, and handmade gifts that make browsing feel like part of the experience. If the weather allows, stretch your legs along the Lebanon Countryside Trail, a paved path that meanders through the scenic edges of town. The crisp air and small-town pace create the right mood for what comes next.
When hunger sets in, the smell of comfort food fills the square. Step inside the Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel, Ohio’s oldest inn, where candlelight and colonial décor set the tone for a meal that feels both celebratory and historic. If your mood is more casual, the Breakfast Club Café offers freshly roasted coffee and hearty sandwiches on North Broadway. Barbecue fans can find warmth and wood smoke at Woodshed Smokehouse & Grille, a local favorite just a few blocks away. Each restaurant is close enough to the station that you can linger over dessert without worrying about time.
Families with young children may want to play before dinner. The nearby Kid Clubhouse offers an indoor playground and creative activities, perfect for little ones who need to burn off excitement before the ride. For those seeking something calmer, Lebanon’s independent shops provide plenty of charm and photo-worthy storefronts. Whether it is browsing the antique stores or sipping cocoa at a local café, the town invites you to slow down and savor the season.
As twilight approaches, walk toward the station at 16 East South Street. Strings of lights mark the platform, and the sound of carolers often greets passengers. The North Pole Express runs for about an hour and fifteen minutes and features Santa Claus and his elves visiting each car. Children receive a souvenir bell and a holiday cookie while parents sip hot chocolate and take photos. The vintage cars, operated by the non-profit Cincinnati Scenic Railway, are carefully restored and heated for comfort. Deluxe seating provides individual seats with extra space, while Coach class offers the nostalgic feel of traditional bench seating.
Tickets for the 2025 season go on sale August 16, and rides begin in late November. Prices start around $30 for Coach and $40 for Deluxe, but they sell quickly. Families can purchase tickets directly through the LM&M Railroad website to secure their preferred date and time. Many pair the experience with dinner downtown or shopping afterward, creating an annual outing that rivals any theme park in warmth and authenticity. It is the type of small-town celebration that defines the season in southwestern Ohio.
By the time the train glides back into the station, the lights of downtown Lebanon shimmer against the night sky. Families step off with cheeks rosy from the ride and hearts a little lighter. The North Pole Express is not just a trip to Santa’s workshop. It is a reminder that the best holiday traditions are the ones you build together, one joyful stop at a time.