As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, Pennsylvania’s historic railroads offer some of the most enchanting ways to experience the beauty of autumn. From Halloween-themed rides to leaf-peeping adventures, these family-friendly excursions promise memories that will last long after the last pumpkin is carved. Get your family rolling with one or more of these fall railroad experiences across the Keystone State!

Tips for Your Fall Railroad Adventure:

1. Book early, as these experiences often sell out quickly.

2. Dress in layers – trains can be cool in the morning but warm up as the day progresses.

3. Bring a camera to capture the stunning fall scenery.

4. Check each railroad’s website for specific guidelines and any last-minute changes.

5. Consider packing snacks, though many trains offer onboard refreshments.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly Halloween fun or a peaceful journey through Pennsylvania’s autumn landscape, these railroad experiences offer something for everyone. All aboard for fall adventures!

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1. West Chester Railroad: Fall Foliage, Halloween, and History Specials

230 E Market St, West Chester, PA 19382

Admission: Varies by experience, starting at $30 for adults and $25 for children (2-11)
📸 @westchestertrain

The West Chester Railroad offers a trio of captivating autumn experiences. Their Fall Foliage Express takes you on a brisk ride through the picturesque Chester Creek Valley, showcasing Chester and Delaware County in full fall splendor. For Halloween, families are encouraged to don costumes for a fun-filled journey featuring treat bags for children. History buffs will appreciate the History Special, an interactive guided trip with on-board narration by WCRHA historian Dave Walter, featuring several stops for historical presentations and photo opportunities. All trips journey to the village of Glen Mills and back, offering heated trains and stunning views of fall foliage along the way.

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2. Strasburg Rail Road: Pumpkin Patch Train

301 Gap Rd, Ronks, PA 17572

Admission: Varies by experience, starting at $20 for adults and $14 for children (2-11)
📸 @strasburgrailroad

Hop aboard America’s oldest short-line railroad for a scenic ride to Strasburg’s very own pumpkin patch. Kids can pick their own pumpkin to take home, and the whole family can enjoy autumn-themed activities at Groff’s Grove.

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3. New Hope Railroad: Fall Foliage Excursions

32 W Bridge St, New Hope, PA 18938
Admission: Adults $40.99, Children (2-11) $38.99, Under 2 free
📸 @newhoperailroad

Experience the stunning fall colors of Bucks County on a 1920s vintage train. The two-hour round trip takes you through the picturesque countryside, offering breathtaking views of the changing leaves.

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4. Colebrookdale Railroad: Autumn Splendor & Halloween Trains

64 S Washington St, Boyertown, PA 19512
Admission: Varies by experience, starting at $39 for adults and $29 for children (2-12)
📸 @colebrookdalerr

The “Secret Valley Line” offers both fall foliage excursions and spooky Halloween-themed rides. Their Autumn Splendor trips showcase the vibrant colors of the season, while the Eerie Limited provides family-friendly frights.

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5. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad: Fall Foliage Rides

409 S Perry St, Titusville, PA 16354
Admission: Adults $22, Children (3-12) $16, Under 3 free
📸 @oct_railroad

Journey through the heart of Pennsylvania’s Oil Region and witness the spectacular autumn colors of Oil Creek State Park. This 3-hour round trip offers stunning views and a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

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6. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: Fall Foliage Special

1 Susquehanna St, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
Admission: Adults $20, Children (3-12) $10, Under 3 free
📸 @lehighgorgescenicrailway

Embark on a 70-minute autumn adventure through the Lehigh Gorge. The open-air car offers unobstructed views of the fall foliage as you wind along the Lehigh River.

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7. East Broad Top Railroad: PEANUTS™ The Great Pumpkin Patch Express

421 Meadow St, Rockhill Furnace, PA 17249
Admission: Starting at $30 for adults, $24 for children under 12
📸 @eastbroadtoprailroad

Join Charlie Brown and Snoopy for a non-scary fall family adventure on the famed narrow-gauge East Broad Top Railroad. This three-hour experience includes a 60-minute, nine-mile round-trip train ride through the scenic Aughwick Valley, followed by 90 minutes at the Sincere Pumpkin Patch. The vintage steam train features comfortable enclosed passenger cars, popular open-air cars, and an authentic caboose. One passenger car and the pumpkin patch are wheelchair-accessible. Guests are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and enjoy games, pumpkins, beautiful scenery, and vintage trains. Reservations are strongly recommended.

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Feature photo courtesy of East Broad Top Railroad.