Across the Philadelphia region, historic railways ferry passengers on scenic trips that provide a bit of nostalgia. Holiday train rides are so magical. Whether your family is looking to get cozy with Santa Claus, create a new family tradition of fetching your Christmas tree with the train, or just enjoy stepping back in time for a winter adventure, these regional railways offer something for everyone.
Woodstown Central Railroad
- What it is: Santa trains and twilight holiday rides through Southern NJ on a historic railroad.
- Dates: Nov–Dec
- Location: Woodstown Central Railroad, Woodstown, NJ
- Good for: A classic Santa ride, evening ambiance (Twilight rides)
- Official Website →
New Hope Railroad
- What it is: Enjoy Santa’s steam ride or ride a vintage diesel locomotive on the North Pole Express.
- Dates: Nov-early Jan
- Location: New Hope Railroad, New Hope
- Good for: Authentic steam train fans, a magical Santa experience
- Official Website →
Strasburg Rail Road
- What it is: Three different holiday rail excursions through Amish Country with a wide range of options from different classes to brunch.
- Dates: Nov-Dec
- Location: Strasburg Rail Road, Ronk
- Good for: A premium experience (brunch/classes), a classic family trip
- Official Website →
Colebrookdale Railroad
- What it is: Enjoy a ride (with dinner, if you want) through Boyertown with Santa or for the Snowflake Special.
- Dates: Nov-Jan
- Location: Colebrookdale Railroad, Boyertown
- Good for: A full meal experience, a festive date night (dinner train)
- Official Website →
West Chester Railroad
- What it is: Ride through the Chester Creek Valley for Santa’s Express. Or fetch your holiday tree with the Tree Train.
- Dates: Nov-Dec
- Location: West Chester Railroad, West Chester
- Good for: A new family tradition (cutting your own tree!), Santa
- Official Website →
Wilmington & Western Railroad
- What it is: Enjoy the holiday lights with a train ride in a 100-year-old heated coaches or do a meet and greet on the Santa Express.
- Dates: Nov-Dec
- Location: Wilmington & Western Railroad, Wilmington, DE
- Good for: Seeing holiday lights by rail, a classic Santa ride
- Official Website →
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
- What it is: Take a scenic ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway this holiday season with Santa or with other holiday characters.
- Dates: Nov-Dec
- Location: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, Jim Thorpe
- Good for: Scenic winter views (Jim Thorpe), a classic Santa ride
- Official Website →
Tips for Holiday Train Rides
- With a set number of seats and thus tickets, don’t delay if there’s a train excursion you’re interested in. Many only run on weekends, so dates are limited and demand can be high.
- Be sure to dress for the weather. While the trains are heated, always be prepared in case of an emergency.
- Arrive early. Most trains are general admission by car, so arriving 20-30 minutes before your departure time is key to getting seats together, especially for larger groups.
Looking for More Holiday Fun?
Don’t miss the rest of the 2025 holiday coverage! Head back to the Ultimate Guide to Holiday & Winter Events in Philadelphia to find the best markets, light displays, historic tours, and more.
Photo is my own.
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