Santa Express Train
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves aboard a historic 1860s railway car for a one-hour Christmas ride through the rolling hills of southern Pennsylvania.
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$30 USD
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All Ages
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1 Hour
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Pennsylvania, United States
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New Freedom
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- Festive Highlights
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- Includes one-hour roundtrip to Glen Rock, Santa visit, and refreshments.
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Santa Express Holiday Train Features
Historic Holiday Train
Ride aboard 1800s-style heated coach cars beautifully decorated for Christmas.
Santa On Board
Meet Santa and receive a small gift for kids on the “nice” list.
Cookies & Cocoa
Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies after your ride at the Engine House.
Santa Express Holiday Train Details
Highlights
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Historic Train
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Santa Visit
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Hot Cocoa
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Family Friendly
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Live Music
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Photo Moments
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Scenic Route
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Gifts for Kids
Description
**The Santa Express** at Northern Central Railway brings holiday cheer and 19th-century charm together for an unforgettable Christmas ride through the Pennsylvania countryside. Departing from the historic New Freedom Station, this one-hour round trip to Glen Rock is filled with music, laughter, and the timeless spirit of the season. The beautifully restored heritage cars—complete with coal stoves, cushioned walkover seats, and holiday décor—set the stage for an authentic old-fashioned Christmas journey. As the train winds through rolling hills and farmland, children will meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and receive a special gift. Families can sing along to carols and enjoy the festive warmth of twinkling lights and the sound of the steam whistle echoing across York County. After the train returns, visit the Engine House for complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, stroll through the model train display, and enjoy live fiddle music from local performers. It’s a nostalgic celebration that blends Pennsylvania’s rail history with the wonder of the holidays—a cherished tradition for locals and travelers alike.
Itinerary
12:30 PM → Arrive early at New Freedom Station to check in and explore the historic depot. 1:00 PM → Board the Santa Express and find your seats in vintage 1800s coach cars. 1:15 PM → Depart for Glen Rock as carols fill the air. Santa visits each family on board. 1:45 PM → Kids receive small gifts and pose for photos with Santa. 2:00 PM → Return to New Freedom Station and head to the Engine House for cocoa and cookies.
Price & Availability
Tickets start at $29.99 for children and $44.99 for adults.
Instructions
Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes prior to boarding. Departs from 117 N. Front Street, New Freedom, PA.
Restrictions
Wheelchair accessibility is available on the D. Reed Anderson Car.










