One of the best ways to experience this popular vacation destination is to hop aboard a train on the Cape Cod scenic railroad.  There travelers will have epic views of the historic towns and seashore. One of the best ways to experience this coastal
gem is by taking the scenic railroad using excursion and dining trains.
The world-famous Cape Cod Central Railroad is operated by Cape Rail Inc., stretching over 27 miles through some of Massachusetts’ most beautiful and historic scenery.
The excursion and dining trains run from Hyannis through scenic landscapes including cranberry bogs, salt marshes, ponds, and rivers up to Buzzards Bay. You can only get to Nantucket, Cuttyhunk and Martha’s Vineyard by land or sea.
This article will steer you across a virtual tour of the Cape Cod Railroad, giving you a clear perspective on what it feels like to be on different trains.
1. The Canal Narrated Excursion Train
The Canal Excursion Train will take you on a 2-hour-long ride from Buzzards Bay to Sandwich. You’ll see cranberry bogs, salt marshes, and historic sites all along the way.
The Cape Cod canal train ride is a fun and educational adventure for people of all ages.
The canal combines history, beautiful scenery, and wildlife watching opportunities that offer more than just an enjoyable train tour experience!
Celebrate family time or make memories as you explore one-of-a-kind attractions like the glass industry while learning about its historical past from the narration.
Schedule
The canal excursion train leaves from Buzzards Bay at noon every Friday from June 18 to September 24.
Then, it travels across the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge, Sandwich, and Great Salt Marsh in West Barnstable before returning to Buzzards Bay. If you’re interested, you can book the tickets online!
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Standard class | $29.99(12+) $24.99(3-11) |
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| First-class | $39.99(12+) $34.99(3-11) |
|
| Premium class | $54.99(12+) $49.99(3-11) |
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| Deluxe club car | $59.99(21+) $139.99 for a private table of two people(21+) |
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2. The Cape Cod Excursion Train
The Cape Cod excursion train will take around one hour and 10 minutes if you depart from West Barnstable station and two hours from Hyannis. You will travel through cranberry bogs and woodlands, past lighthouses, and across historic bridges.
Who benefits from the tour?
This tour can be great for families or groups looking to explore the beautiful scenery of Massachusetts cultural towns with an onboard narration about their history. You can bring along your kids as this train has no age restrictions!
The scenic views of expansive salt marshes and dunes never grow old for passengers on this historic railway. Travel back in time to an era when trains were a king with this classic rail excursion!
Schedule
The Cape Cod excursion train runs from Hyannis or West Barnstable station from May to October on Saturday at 12:25 pm. In addition, it stops at local villages and the Cape Cod Canal before returning to the point of origin.
If you’re traveling with a disabled person, make sure to arrange special accommodations while booking the tickets.
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Standard class | $29.99(12+) $24.99(3-11) |
|
| First-class | $39.99(12+) $34.99(3-11) |
|
| Premium class | $54.99(12+) $49.99(3-11) |
|
| Deluxe club car | $59.99(21+) $139.99 for a private table of two people(21+) |
|
3. Ghosts Along the Coast Halloween Train Ride
The mysterious journey is a two-hour and thirty-minute trip through some of the most haunted areas in Cape Cod. You’ll see ghost towns and abandoned mines, listen to spooky stories about historical mysteries, and learn about folklore galore in this Halloween-themed train ride departing from Buzzards Bay.
Get ready for a spooky Halloween party on this train, with prizes and games. Enjoy cocktails from a ghostly bar as you take in views of Cape Cod Canal‘s most spectacular scenery.
You can dress up or come as your favorite ghoul wearing family-friendly attire. This event is not just for kids – adults will enjoy themselves too!
This fun event is perfect for those looking to get into the spirit of Halloween festivities without being too overwhelming or scary.
Schedule
The ghosts along the coast are waiting for you on Saturday, October 30th, 2021. Join them on this Halloween train ride from 6 pm-8:30 pm this year!
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| First-class | $59.99(12+) $44.99(3-11) |
|
| Premium class | $79.99(12+) $64.99(3-11) |
|
| Deluxe club car | $69.99 per person for a private table of two people(21+) $64.99 for a reserved lounge chair |
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4. Polar Express Train Ride
The Polar Express train ride is a magical experience. Although it’s only 1 to 1 ½ hours long, it feels like Santa has taken you to the North Pole straight from your living room! The classic story soundtrack will play in the background while you enjoy Christmas carols play with friendly chefs and waiters.
This magical train tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy the spirit of Christmas in a Polar Express-themed ride. Your child will love it!
In addition, you can take free photos with Santa Claus on board, so be sure not to forget your camera. Moreover, it has no parking fees or age restrictions.
Along the way, many volunteers dress up as other characters from the classic children’s book, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, to make the experience authentic for kids!
Schedule
The train ride starts from Buzzard Bay and ends at Santa’s workshop in the North Pole.
Along with other passengers, you will enjoy hot cocoa and cookies as you travel through snowy forests and ice-covered lakes.
You’ll even get a chance to meet some elves after arriving at your destination, where Santa awaits with special gifts!
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age(matinee) | Price and age(regular) | What’s included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard class | $49(13+) $39(3-12) |
$64(13+) $54(3-12) |
|
| First-class | $64(13+) $54(3-12) |
$79(13+) $69(3-12) |
|
| Premium class | $84(13+) $74(3-12) |
$99(13+) $89(3-12) |
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If you’re traveling with children under 3, you have to pay $5 extra with your chosen package.
Apart from excursion trains, you can also travel in dinner trains if you don’t want any narration.
A dinner train is a type of excursion train that offers its passengers gourmet meals and fine wines in addition to the scenery.
Let’s have a look at a few below.
Mother’s Day Brunch Train
If you’re looking for a delicious brunch spot to spend time with your mother, the Mother’s Day brunch train is an excellent option! Take a two-and-a-half-hour ride from Hyannis through the serene beauty of Cape Cod’s canal and salt marshes.
Moreover, chef Peter Bilodeau has planned a delectable three-course menu. You will fall in love with the savory breakfast dishes, decadent brunch items, and sweet desserts.
Schedule
The Mother’s Day Brunch Train rolls into Cape Cod on Sunday from Hyannis at 11:00 am. Call at 888-797-7245 to confirm the availability!
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| First-class | $59.99(12+) $44.99(3-12) |
|
| Premium class | $79.99(12+) $64.99(3-12) |
Cape Cod Dinner Train
The Cape Cod Dinner Train is a great way to experience the beauty of Cape Cod during sunset while indulging in a fine dining experience. Reservations are required for this three-hour ride that is open to adults and children above 12.
The train provides a first-class dining experience with an extensive menu of options, including a fresh five-course gourmet meal that varies according to the season.
Besides, it’s designed in an old-style way with high ceilings and leather seats. So, it’s perfect for any romantic occasion or just to get away from the hustle-bustle of your daily life!
Schedule
The Cape Cod dinner train departs from Hyannis, or Buzzards Bay, around 5-6 pm. The time and station vary depending on the date.
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | $89.99(12+) |
|
| Premium class | $119.99(12+) |
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| Platinum class | $149.99(12+) |
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Jazz Brunch Train
The jazz brunch train offers an authentic experience with your favorite things about dining out. You can enjoy delicious food, have a window seat, and be entertained by the onboard jazz band as you take in the scenery while traveling through historic salt marshes.
There is also a 3-course meal with multiple varieties, all prepared fresh by the chefs on board.
Schedule
Take a two-and-a-half-hour Sunday trip in a vintage dining car departing from Hyannis, where you can explore the serene beauty of Cape Cod’s salt marshes and see all the sights along the famous Cape Cod Canal.
Packages
| Classes of service | Price and age | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | $54.99(3-11) $64.99(12+) |
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| Premium class | $69.99(3-11) $84.99(12+) |
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| Club car (Band Car) | $94.99(3-11) |
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Conclusion
The Cape Cod Scenic Railroad is a fun way to see the beautiful scenery of Cape Cod. The excursion and dinner trains run from Hyannis and Buzzards Bay, covering some of the most stunning landscapes along Cape Cod Bay in Massachusetts.
The multiple train tours let families and friends spend quality time together, as there are plenty of activities onboard, including snacks and games.
So have a taste of the Cape’s never-ending summer and find out why it’s time to enjoy your year-round paradise.
Discover more things to do in Cape Cod, from big adventures to small ones. So, chill out in a hammock, take your pick of some fishing trips, or head for the water and hit up one of the surfing spots.
