There are lots of opportunities to see Santa in Cincinnati, but Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction is perhaps the most surprising. Of course, everyone knows Santa loves trains, but Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction really gives you the whole holiday experience.
From whimsical displays to a journey to the North Pole to the most authentic Santa in town, Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction is one holiday event that really captures the magic of the season.
EnterTRAINment Junction is a destination in and of itself. It’s the world’s largest indoor train display (right here in Ohio!) and it’s open year round. Train enthusiasts will marvel at the never-ending display, which takes you from the locomotive’s humble beginnings through the present day. There is so much to see, and my kids always love interacting with the trains.
Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction adds some extra fun with holiday scenes and sparkly little Santas, reindeer and snowmen hidden throughout the display. Kids will love looking for all these cheerful additions.
Speaking of Santa, you must travel to the “North Pole” and visit him. You’ll take a magical journey through a Winter Wonderland (located in the A-Maze-N FunHouse) to the North Pole where you can see Rudolph and the Elves’ Workshop. Then have cookies with Mrs. Claus in her kitchen and, of course, visit Santa in his study.
For those who are skeptical of Santa, this is an incredibly low-key, kid-friendly experience. Mrs. Claus warmed Harvey up with a freshly baked cookie, and then led us into Santa’s study. I’m not sure if it was the warm cookie or the prospect of presents, but Harvey happily visited with Santa, and was all smiles.
Separately, but definitely worth noting, is the FREE holiday train display located in the Expo Center. The Main Street Holiday Trains display is a must for little train lovers. There are several different miniature displays, plus fun photo opps throughout the room. This free event is a total holiday hidden gem!
Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction is open daily through Jan. 1, 2020 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). It’s open Monday-Saturday from 10 am-6 pm and Sunday from 12-6 pm. It’s open until 9 pm on select dates from Dec. 7-30, and closes at 4 pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Santa returns to the North Pole on Dec. 26.
