Have no fear: Those are friendly witches aboard Wilmington & Western Railroad's Halloween Express. Photo by Mike Ciosek

Halloween, Fall Foliage, & Themed Train Rides for Philly Families

As cooler weather reaches the Delaware Valley, Philly families are reminded of autumnal traditions. This year, consider adding a new experience to your fall must-do list by climbing aboard one of the many family-friendly train rides in the region.

From fall foliage viewing to pumpkin patch stops, there are several unique train experiences sure to delight Philly children of all ages.

Looking for more trains?

Check out New Jersey's Halloween and Fall Train Rides list for even more fun. Check out our Fall Activities Guide for more great ways to enjoy the season.

In the COVID-19 era, be sure to check with each venue as some have changed their capacities to allow for proper social distancing. Advance ticket purchases are required for most. Don't forget your masks and hand sanitizer too.

Great Fall Family Train Rides in the Philly Area

Take in fall foliage aboard the West Chester Express.
Take in fall foliage with the kids aboard the West Chester Railroad. Photo courtesy of the railroad

Fall Foliage Express—West Chester, Pennsylvania

Sundays through November 8, 2020
Sit back and experience the beauty of autumnal colors while traveling along the West Chester Railroad in a heated train. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes.

Autumn Splendor Hayride on the Rails—Boyertown, Pennsylvania

October 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, and 30, 2020
Experience the rich jewel-tone colors of fall leaves during this two-hour trip aboard a train at The Colebrookdale Railroad. Passengers can select from a deluxe coach, cafe car, parlor car, or open car. Autumn snacks are served onboard.

Take the Great Pumpkin Train to the patch and enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery. Photo courtesy of Delaware River Railroad Excursions

The Great Pumpkin Train—Phillipsburg, New Jersey

Saturdays and Sundays through November 1, 2020
Families can take a special ride on the Delaware River Railroad to the pumpkin patch on weekends throughout October. For an additional fee, kids can play in the corn maze and experience the mine train.

Haunted Halloween Train—New Hope, Pennsylvania

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, October 8-October 31, 2020 and October 26, 27, and 28, 2020
Recommended for children over 13 only, this scary train ride on the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad sends you on a frightening trip. The railroad's Crypt Keeper cautions passengers to be prepared for anything.

Trick-or-Treat Train—New Hope, Pennsylvania

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from October 9- 31, 2020; also October 26, 27, and 28, 2020
Get extra use out of those Halloween costumes and treat-or-treat at New Hope & Ivyland Railroad. Kids can dress as their favorite superhero, princess, witch, or character and collect candy around the station.

Ride with Thomas and his friends along the Strasburg Railroad.
Bond with Thomas and his friends from Sodor along the Strasburg Rail Road. Photo courtesy of Strasburg Rail Road

Ride with Thomas and His Friends—Ronks, Pennsylvania

October 9-14 and November 6-9, 2020
Everyone's favorite tank engine and his friends travel all the way from the Island of Sodor to see young train lovers at Strasburg Railroad. The 45-minute journey takes passengers throughout the countryside.

Autumn Leaf Special—Wilmington, Delaware

October 10, 11, 17, 18, 21, 24, 25, 28, and November 1, 7, and 8, 2020
Climb aboard the train at Wilmington & Western Railroad and take a ride to Mt. Cuba Picnic Grove. Note: Due to a summer tornado and damage to the lines, trains can not run to Hockessin.

Ride with Mavis—Ronks, Pennsylvania

October 15, 2020
Hop aboard the famous diesel locomotive Mavis, one of Thomas' friends, at Strasburg Railroad. The excursion takes passengers on a ride through the beautiful Lancaster County countryside.

Return to days gone by during the Great Train Robbery ride. Photo courtesy of Strasburg Rail Road

The Great Train Robbery—Ronks, Pennsylvania

October 17, 2020
Head to Strasburg Rail Road and get ready for an interactive adventure during the Great Train Robbery, featuring a Jesse James theme.

Pumpkin Patch Train—Kempton, Pennsylvania

October 18, 24, and 25, 2020
Find the perfect pumpkin in the patch at WK & S Railroad. Take a complimentary decorating kit to get your pumpkin ready for the season.

Halloween Express—Wilmington, Delaware

October 31, 2020
A couple of friendly witches take a ride on the Wilmington & Western Railroad during this not-so-scary train ride. Passengers wearing costumes receive a discounted fare.