This Epic Train Ride In Philadelphia Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience
If you spend a lot of time in Philadelphia, chances are you’ve got a lot to say about trains in the city. SEPTA brings everyone’s opinionated side out, each of us has almost been run over by a trolley, and 30th Street Station is a landmark for giving directions and getting out of the city.
What if I told you that the most incredible train near Philadelphia is just north of the city, in the charming town of New Hope? If you’ve never taken a ride on the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad, you’ve got to make plans to go.
The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad is based out of the famous 1891 Witch's Hat Train Station right in the middle of New Hope, PA.
You'll ride through scenic Bucks County on restored vintage passenger coaches powered by diesel locomotives, just like travelers in the early 1900s did! Each of the excursions that New Hope & Ivyland offer will take you away to another world.
This 45-minute trip on a First Class parlor car includes song and dance, as well as readings from children's stories. These run frequently, every Tuesday & Thursday at 11 AM, 12 PM & 1 PM from June 13th through August 24th. Children are given a snack and juice, and adult tickets include a soft drink.
The Sunday Brunch or Evening Dinner excursions make for the most unique date ever!
Have a seat in an early 1900s first class parlor car and enjoy a gourmet meal. Dinner is a two hour event, with a first course served while the train is still at the station. The train will depart while you are eating for a one and a half hour trip on the New Hope - Philadelphia line that was built in 1891. Sunday Brunch is a shorter trip along the same line, lasting just one hour and fifteen minutes. Enjoy views of beautiful Bucks County, overlooking waterways and crossing open deck trestle bridges.
And the classic Buckingham Valley train is a favorite of all who take the journey.
This is a longer ride than the traditional excursions, including rare mileage in Buckingham Township, PA. You'll enjoy a ride in a 1900s era passenger coast and your guide will fill you in on the history of the rail line and the landmarks that you pass. The train will bring you to beautiful "Nonesuch Farms" in Buckingham Township before turning around and heading home.
But the crowd favorite has got to be the only wine train near Philadelphia - the Grapevine Express.
This romantic Wine and Cheese train near Philadelphia will feature artisan crackers, fine cheeses and fruits, and featured wines. Every month, a new region is chosen. Each trip lasts an hour and a half along the New Hope to Philadelphia line, dating back to 1891.
The next Grapevine Express trains run on August, 19th & 26th, September 2nd, 9th, 23rd & 30th at 5:00 PM. Tickets sell out fast, so make your reservation early!
Tickets to these trains sell out quickly, so check the Railroad Schedule and plan your unforgettable trip on this historic train near Philadelphia with friends or family. There’s nothing like it, particularly when the leaves begin to change colors next month!
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
