250 Buckeye Train Celebrates Ohio’s Role in Transportation Innovation

Located halfway between Columbus and Pittsburgh, the town of Dennison was dubbed Dreamsville, USA by the 1.3 million service members who passed through on their way to serve during World War II. Today, the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is the only remaining example of the 242 nationwide trackside canteens that provided food and lifted the spirits of traveling soldiers. 

In recognition of Ohio’s role in the evolution of transportation, the two-day 250 Buckeye Train and Transportation Celebration invites participants to chug along through time with trains, planes and automobiles and commemorate how our state helped shape U.S. history. 

“Ohio was a leader in transportation in many ways: in air and auto and rail and military support,” says Wendy Zucal, executive director of the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. “This event is all about Ohio’s transportation history, past and present.” 

On April 25, 2026, ticketed passengers are invited to board the AM 250-OH Buckeye Train departing from Columbus for a round-trip adventure to the Dennison Depot. While traveling east at 35 mph, riders can learn about the history of the area and take in the picturesque scenery before a three-hour stop in Dennison. On April 26, 2026, a separate event offers ticketed riders a round-trip excursion from Newark to Dennison with a planned pick-up in Coshocton on its journey to Dennison. 

Once they arrive in Dennison, visitors can trace the evolution of the automobile at the Ohio 250 Car Show, while vintage airplanes and modern military aircraft take to the skies in flyovers meant to reflect the spirit of World War II-era aviation history. 

Other highlights include WWII reenactors, museum exhibits, food trucks and a USO show reminiscent of the entertainment soldiers were treated to during deployment.

For more information, including ticket availability, visit dennisondepot.org.

The America 250-Ohio publication was created in partnership with the America 250-Ohio Commission. For more information on America 250-Ohio, visit america250-ohio.org.