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A Pennsylvania Christmas Train Ride In Middletown!

Published: November 7, 2025

By: Adam Burns

There’s a special kind of holiday magic that only a small-town railroad can deliver: the scent of pine and hot cocoa, the soft hum of a vintage train, and the wide-eyed wonder of kids who can’t wait to spot Santa. In central Pennsylvania, the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad captures that spirit every year with its seasonal Christmas trains, notably Santa’s Surprise Train and the Polar Bear Express. If you’re planning a festive outing that mixes nostalgia, family-friendly fun, and a touch of local history, this heritage railroad is a memorable choice.

"Middletown & Hummelstown" 2-6-0 #91 pulls the "Civil War Steam Special" out of Middletown on September 30, 2007. The Mogul actually started out as Canadian National #91 in 1910, built by the Canadian Locomotive Company. Rob Kitchen photo.

About the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad

The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad is a heritage line based in Middletown, Pennsylvania, a short drive from Hershey and Harrisburg. The route follows a former Reading Company branch that traces the scenic Swatara Creek, threading through woodlands and farmland toward Hummelstown. For much of the year, the railroad runs excursion trains that highlight the region’s history, including its ties to early industry, the canal era, and nearby attractions like Indian Echo Caverns. In late fall and winter, the schedule shifts to holiday-themed rides that have become a tradition for many local families.

While equipment can vary, you can expect vintage diesel locomotives and classic passenger coaches decorated for the season. The feel is intimate and unhurried—more “small-town celebration” than big production—making it ideal if you prefer a relaxed, authentic holiday experience over crowds and spectacle.

Santa’s Surprise Train

Santa’s Surprise Train is the railroad’s centerpiece Christmas experience. The concept is simple, and that’s part of its charm: climb aboard a decorated coach, settle into a warm seat, and enjoy a leisurely ride while Santa strolls through the train to greet children. The atmosphere is cheerful and cozy, with carols in the background and twinkling lights that turn the coaches into festive rolling parlors.

What to expect

- A welcoming, family-focused ride that typically lasts under an hour, long enough to feel like a real journey but short enough for toddlers and grandparents alike.
- Santa visits each family, giving kids a chance to say hello and, typically, to receive a small treat or token. Bring your camera; this is a great photo op.
- Friendly crew members and volunteers who share tidbits about the railroad and the landscape along the Swatara Creek. On daytime departures, keep an eye out for wildlife and historic features along the line.
- A relaxed pace. This isn’t a scripted theatrical show; it’s a real train ride with personal touches and the kind of warmth that local heritage railroads are known for.

Tips for getting the most out of it

- Book early. Holiday trains often sell out on peak weekends.
- Dress in layers. Coaches are heated, but winter boarding platforms can be chilly.
- Arrive a little early to enjoy the station ambiance, pick up souvenirs, and avoid the rush. Parking and boarding go more smoothly when you’re not racing the clock.
- Bring a simple letter or wish list if your child wants to share something with Santa; keeping it brief makes the moment easier for little ones.

Who it’s perfect for

Santa’s Surprise Train is tailor-made for young families and multigenerational outings. The ride length and onboard Santa visit are designed to delight children without overstimulation. If your holiday tradition includes a photo with Santa, this setting feels more personal than a mall and far more memorable.

The Polar Bear Express

Where Santa’s Surprise Train leans into the classic visit-with-Santa experience, the Polar Bear Express embraces the season itself. It’s a wintertime excursion that focuses on the quiet beauty of the landscape, the nostalgia of vintage rail travel, and the novelty of bundling up for a cold-weather ride. The name hints at the experience: think cozy sweaters, scarves, and the hush of winter as the train glides along the creek.

What to expect

- A scenic cold-weather ride without the Santa meet-and-greet. The emphasis is on the journey and the season, not character interactions.
- A different vibe from pre-Christmas rides—less bustle, more reflection. This can be a wonderful way to keep the holiday spirit going during the final weeks of December or into the new year, depending on the schedule.
- Occasional opportunities to ride in cars with big windows that frame the winter scenery. Some seasons may feature an open-air car for hardy passengers when conditions allow; if you choose that, bring serious layers.

Tips for comfort and enjoyment

- Dress warmly, even in heated coaches. Hats and gloves make boarding and platform time much more pleasant.
- Consider a twilight or late afternoon departure if available. The winter sky can add atmosphere to the experience, though exact departures vary year to year.
- Bring a thermos or purchase hot drinks if on offer. Simple comforts make the Polar Bear Express feel special.

Who it’s perfect for

The Polar Bear Express appeals to couples, friend groups, and families with older kids who enjoy scenic rides and the calm of post-holiday outings. If you love the idea of a peaceful, wintry train trip—without the busyness of a Santa visit—this is your pick.

Planning your visit

- Schedules and tickets: Holiday schedules, departure times, and fares can change from year to year. Check the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad’s official website or social media for current details and online ticketing. Popular dates sell out, so plan ahead.
- Seating: Many heritage railroads offer open seating within a reserved car. If you have a preference for a specific section or need to keep your group together, arriving early helps. If assigned seating is used for certain trips, you’ll see that in the booking process.
- Accessibility: If anyone in your party has mobility considerations, reach out to the railroad before you book. Heritage equipment can have steps and narrow aisles. Staff are typically happy to advise on the best options available.
- Amenities: Restrooms, a small gift area, and seasonal concessions may be available at the station or onboard, but offerings vary. If snacks are important for little ones, bring a simple, tidy option.
- Weather and operations: Trains generally run in light snow and cold, which can make the experience magical. Severe weather can prompt delays or changes. Keep your phone handy for updates on the day of travel.

Why choose a heritage railroad for your holiday outing

- Authenticity: You’re riding real railroad history, not just a themed attraction. That authenticity creates memories that stick.
- Community: Many volunteers and staff have deep ties to the area. The personal touch you’ll encounter is hard to replicate at larger venues.
- Preservation: Your ticket helps keep historic equipment maintained and the line in operation for future generations.
- Location: The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad is close to Hershey and Harrisburg, making it easy to pair your ride with other seasonal activities in the region.

Making the most of your trip

- Turn it into a day: Explore Middletown’s local eateries or add a stop in Hershey for lights and treats. The train becomes the centerpiece of a festive day.
- Build a tradition: Many families return year after year, especially for Santa’s Surprise Train, where watching kids grow from stroller riders to excited letter-writers becomes part of the fun.
- Keep it simple: The best moments are often the unplanned ones—kids waving at the crew, snow flurries settling on the platform, or a quiet moment watching the creek slip by the window.

Final thoughts

The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad’s Santa’s Surprise Train and Polar Bear Express offer two distinct flavors of holiday cheer. One centers on the joy of meeting Santa in a setting that feels intimate and genuine; the other celebrates winter itself, inviting you to slow down and savor the season from a warm seat on a vintage coach. Both tap into the timeless appeal of rail travel and the spirit of a community that takes pride in sharing its history. If your holiday wish list includes quality time, nostalgia, and a dash of adventure, these trains deliver—beautifully.

For current schedules, pricing, and availability, check the railroad’s official channels before you go. Holiday offerings can change, and the most popular departures go quickly. With a little planning and a lot of seasonal spirit, you’ll step off the train with a camera full of memories and a new tradition to look forward to each year.