Celebrate the Season with a Holiday Train Ride in NEPA
Experience the magic of Northeastern Pennsylvania in its most enchanting season by stepping aboard one of the region’s unforgettable holiday train rides. As winter settles over the mountains and valleys, these merry excursions invite travelers to slow down and enjoy the scenery in a way that feels timeless. Cozy passenger cars offer front row views of snow covered forests, twinkling small towns, and the nostalgic charm of vintage rail travel brought to life with yuletide touches.
Perfect for families, couples, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the seasonal rush, these holiday train rides bring together scenic beauty and warm tradition. Whether you are searching for a festive outing or a relaxing winter adventure surrounded by Pennsylvania’s natural splendor, local rail excursions promise a memorable journey filled with comfort, wonder, and merry spirit.
Nov. 28 – 30 | Scranton, PA
The Holiday Express: Steamtown Excursion to Moscow takes riders on a festive round trip from Scranton through the Roaring Brook gorge and northeastern hardwood forests on November 28, 29, and 30. Passengers enjoy scenic views and a layover at Moscow Station to explore historic Victorian era railroad buildings and local memorabilia.
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Nov. 28 – Dec. 21 | Ashland, PA
The Pioneer Tunnel Santa Train in Ashland runs from November 28 through December 21 and offers the Coal Region’s only nighttime Christmas train. Guests ride a beautifully lit open air train behind a historic 1927 steam locomotive to visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus at their warm Christmas Retreat. This holiday train ride is a magical outing filled with plenty of family-friendly charm.
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Nov. 28 – Dec. 13 | Honesdale, PA
The Santa Christmas Tree Express on the Stourbridge Line offers a festive two hour holiday adventure from Honesdale on November 28, 29, 30 and December 6, 7, and 13. Families enjoy a scenic ride, a visit with Santa, and time to pick out a Christmas tree from the trackside lot. It is a warm and memorable way to kick off the holiday season with classic rail charm.
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Nov. 29 & 30 | Bloomsburg, PA
The North Pole Express brings festive family rides to Bloomsburg on November 29 and 30 with one hour trips toward Catawissa filled with music, stories, and holiday characters. Santa joins the return ride to greet children and pose for photos, creating a warm and memorable holiday moment. This cherished community tradition offers a joyful way to celebrate Thanksgiving weekend.
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Dec. 5 – 7 | Tamaqua, PA
Tamaqua Spirit of Christmas fills downtown Tamaqua with holiday charm from December 5, 6, and 7. Families enjoy festive highlights including the Santa parade, Depot Park lighting, an outdoor holiday market, and nostalgic Santa train rides. It is a warm weekend celebration that brings small town Christmas spirit to life.
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Dec. 6 & 7 | Tamaqua, PA
The Santa Claus Special departs from the Tamaqua Train Station on December 6 and 7 for a festive ride filled with holiday cheer and a visit from Santa himself. Passengers enjoy holiday music, warm coaches, and plenty of photo opportunities as Santa greets every child. It is a timeless family tradition that brings the magic of the season to Tamaqua.
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Dec. 6 | Carbondale to Scranton, PA
The 27th Annual Santa Train rolls through towns from Carbondale to Scranton’s Steamtown National Historic Site on December 6, bringing Santa to each community along the route. Families can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy festive activities at every stop throughout the day. This cherished regional tradition also supports Toys for Tots, encouraging visitors to donate a new unwrapped toy to share the holiday spirit.
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Dec. 6 & 7 | Kempton, PA
The Santa Claus Express at the WK and S Railroad brings families a cheerful holiday ride in Kempton on December 6 and 7, complete with visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and the Elves. Children receive free gifts as Santa greets passengers aboard the heated train filled with seasonal treats and festive spirit. It is a cozy and nostalgic holiday outing perfect for creating lasting family memories.
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Dec. 13 & 14 | Minersville, PA
The Santa Claus Special departs from the Minersville Train Station on December 13 and 14 for a cheerful holiday ride filled with festive music and warm, comfortable coaches. Santa visits each car to greet children and pose for photos, creating fun memories for the whole family.
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Dec. 14 | Honesdale, PA
The Santa WinterFest Express on the Stourbridge Line offers families a festive two hour holiday journey from Honesdale. With two departure times on December 14, riders travel in heated coaches to a trackside Christmas venue where they can meet Santa, enjoy activities, and sip complimentary hot chocolate.
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Dec. 20, 21 & 24 | Honesdale, PA
The Santa Express on the Stourbridge Line offers a festive two hour holiday outing from Honesdale on December 20, 21, and 24. Families ride in heated coaches to a trackside Christmas venue where they can meet Santa, enjoy activities, and sip complimentary hot chocolate. You’ll want to add this holiday train ride to your Christmas bucket list.
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Dec. 26 – 29 | Jim Thorpe, PA
The Winter Character Train Ride at the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway takes families through scenic Jim Thorpe from December 26 to December 29. Riders meet cheerful winter characters during this festive seventy minute trip through the Lehigh Gorge. It is a fun post holiday outing perfect for families looking to extend the magic of the season.
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Dec. 27 | Honesdale, PA
The Holiday Train Ride Beer Tasting Experience departs from Honesdale on December 27 for a scenic outing along the Lackawaxen River on the Stourbridge Line paired with craft beer from Runaway Train Brewery. Riders enjoy two pints with snacks on board before continuing the experience at the brewery for a private tour, souvenir, and hearty meal.
Learn MoreYour Ultimate NEPA Holiday Bucket List
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 11/13/2024.
