When the heat of summer begins to die down, there’s no denying that fall is on its way. And once that happens, soon enough we’ll be seeing decorations covering our state in orange and black…and red and gold as well? This fall, if you’re looking to take a scenic train ride that will bring you someplace unforgettable, then it’s time to catch the Hogwarts Express at Chestnut Hill! This Harry Potter themed train ride in Pennsylvania is the perfect way to dive into spooky season, as well as embrace your inner child with a nostalgic nod to one of the greatest literary series of all time.

Editor’s Note: It is unclear at this time whether the Hogwarts Express will be returning to Chestnut Hill this year. We will keep you updated as information becomes available.

Having run for nearly a decade now, the Hogwarts Festival is an annual event at Chestnut Hill College.
ChestnutHillPA/YouTube
For those who are out-of-towners and aren't as familiar with our state, the college can be found in Philadelphia's neighborhood of Chestnut Hill. The perfect excuse to come and visit our big city!
For the last several years, the college has turned itself into the famous wizarding village of Hogsmeade.
ChestnutHillPA/YouTube
The annual festival is held towards the end of October. But even better news? It's free to attend! The festival started off as a simple Quidditch competition that has since turned into the festival of every Harry Potter fan's dreams.

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But don't worry! You won't have to throw yourself at any brick walls to make your way to this magical festival.
catnap72/Getty
Simply climb aboard either the Chestnut Hill East or Chestnut Hill West trains running on the SEPTA regional train lines. Check out the SEPTA Regional Rail Schedule before you head out.
Depending on which train you take, you'll be able to step onto your very own Hogwarts Express with Harry Potter himself.
ChestnutHillPA/YouTube
Each year for the festival, your favorite characters like Harry, Ron, Hermione, Dumbledore and more step inside Pennsylvania's Hogwarts Express. But just to be clear, these are lookalikes of our favorite wizards and friends.

The festival will be just a short walk from the Chestnut Hill East and West trains that our favorite characters will be riding on. You won't want to miss this.
If you never thought you'd be able to ride this magical literary train, now's your chance! To find out which train Harry will be riding this year, keep your eyes peeled for more information. To see the full preview presented to you by ChestnutHillPA, watch the magical video below:
ChestnutHillPA/YouTube

Wands out and ready! It’s time to gather all your friends and family to coordinate costumes! Who knew you could find Hogwarts in Pennsylvania?? So, will you be taking a journey on a themed train ride in Pennsylvania this year? This Harry Potter train and festival is one you definitely won’t want to miss.

If you can’t get enough of PA’s scenic rail beauty, then take a look at these other gorgeous trains in Pennsylvania. Then, end your wizarding adventure by transporting someplace equally magical, but a little more beachy: a tropical-themed rental!

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Harry Potter Themed Train Ride

Jennifer | September 26, 2023

Does Pennsylvania have any scenic train rides?

Rail-fans, rejoice! Whether you're looking for a memorable journey through Pennsylvania's autumn colors, a themed ride for the kiddos, or a relaxing trip over the rivers and through the woods of PA's countryside, there are literally dozens of spectacular train rides in Pennsylvania to choose from. Keep in mind that each of Pennsylvania's railroads offers multiple routes, special events, and themed outings, which means that these are just a few of Pennsylvania's prettiest scenic train options:

  • Colebrookdale Railroad
  • Hawley Explorer
  • Honesdale Explorer
  • Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
  • New Hope Railroad
  • Northern Central Railway of York
  • Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad
  • Pocono Foliage Express
  • Rockhill Trolley Museum
  • Stourbridge Line Farmer's Market Explorer
  • Strasburg Railroad, Lancaster
  • White Haven to Jim Thorpe

 

But why stop with just a quick train ride when you can turn your rail adventure into a full day trip? Hop on one of these spectacular day trains for a memorable adventure both on and off the track.

Does Pennsylvania have any themed hotels?

Literature fans, cinephiles, and pop culture lovers alike will all find overnight accommodations to enjoy in Pennsylvania. Here are just a few themed hotels, inns, and rentals in PA:

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Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, PA, USA