Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains Near Philadelphia for 2023

Journey through Chester Creek Valley aboard Santa's Express. Photo courtesy of the  West Chester Railroad
Journey through Chester Creek Valley aboard Santa's Express. Photo courtesy of the West Chester Railroad
10/20/23 - By Kristen Sullivan

Everyone loves a good Polar Express train ride! There's something about trains that evokes the spirit of Christmas; whether it's memories of model trains under the tree, that "coming home for the holidays" feeling, or Tom Hanks playing the conductor in one of the best kids' Christmas movies ever.

Visits with Santa are even more fun on a train, so we've rounded up all the railroads hosting Polar Express trains and Christmas train rides near Philly. At many of these locations, families can ride a real locomotive with Santa Claus, hear Christmas stories, sing carols, sip hot chocolate, and admire views of the passing countryside. So put on those PJs and get ready to ride the rails with Santa!

Stay up to date on all things holidays by browsing our Philadelphia Holiday Guide, which is packed with great ways to celebrate the season. Looking for more ways to escape the winter chill this season? Check out our Indoor Activity Guide. As always, stay up to date with all the current events in the area with our Activity Calendar.

A few of these are further out than we might normally recommend, but we feel like the longer drives are justified for such a special holiday outing. 

 

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Places featured in this article:


Strasburg Rail Road

Delaware River Railroad Excursions

Greenbank Station at Wilmington & Western Railroad

Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad

Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad

Strasburg Rail Road

Greenbank Station at Wilmington & Western Railroad