Nickel Plate Express invites you to step aboard lovingly restored vintage railcars—or even pedal a railbike—for a nostalgic ride through Hamilton County’s gentle countryside. Run by the nonprofit Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad, it...
Staff here consistently go above and beyond, especially when things don't go as planned. Several visitors experienced mechanical issues that cut trips short, but the team's response was impressive – arranging quick refunds, coordinating bus transportation, and even calling an Uber when a guest's oxygen battery became a concern. The crew's kindness shines through across experiences, from helping elderly passengers board early to comping refreshments and staying calm under pressure. The rail bike rides get enthusiastic praise for their scenic routes through Forest Park and the Indiana countryside. Fair warning though: the hard plastic seats need cushioning (bring a pillow!), and you'll share a four-person bike with strangers unless you pay extra for a private cart. This can mean doing most of the pedaling yourself if your riding partners aren't pulling their weight. Despite the seating quirks, most find it a fun, relaxing outdoor activity suitable for families, including toddlers and seniors. The fall foliage rides also earn high marks when everything runs smoothly.
We (68-72 yr olds) did the railcar experience with friends. It was fun easy exercise. Not as scenic as I was hoping for, but it was a nice path of vegetation coverage from the hot sun. The best part of our experience was the staff! Audrey and the other 3 members were so kind and accommodating. They made sure we were comfortable and safely secure. They did a thorough safety instruction and gave some interesting historical facts. One of the gals even gave us a restaurant recommendation when we asked. (Noblesville, El Rodeo)
Lori Weaver
June 29, 2026
We (68-72 yr olds) did the railcar experience with friends. It was fun easy exercise. Not as scenic as I was hoping for, but it was a nice path of vegetation coverage from the hot sun. The best part of our experience was the staff! Audrey and the other 3 members were so kind and accommodating. They made sure we were comfortable and safely secure. They did a thorough safety instruction and gave some interesting historical facts. One of the gals even gave us a restaurant recommendation when we asked. (Noblesville, El Rodeo)
Lori Weaver
June 29, 2026